These three mocktail recipes feature herbal bitters as a simple way to support digestion. Digestive bitters activate taste receptors that increase saliva production and signal the release of digestive juices, hormones and enzymes such as cholecystokinin (CCK), ghrelin, and motilin, which support the efficient breakdown of food. This leads to a reduction of boating and indigestion, relief of acid reflux and heartburn, improved stomach acid production, enhanced GI motility, enhanced nutrient absorption, appetite suppression, and more! PERQUE DigestivAide™ is a recommended choice for your herbal bitters needs.
Cucumber Basil Refresher
This mocktail combines cucumber, lime, herbal bitters, and fresh basil leaves to support hydration and digestion. Cucumber provides water and trace minerals that help maintain fluid balance and support circulation. It also contains compounds that can help calm mild digestive discomfort. Lime contributes vitamin C and natural acids that stimulate digestive secretions and support stomach acid production.
Basil contains vitamins, minerals (such as magnesium), antioxidants, and essential oils. The essential oils can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Magnesium can help improve blood flow. Other benefits of adding basil to your diet may include reduced inflammation, improved regulation of blood sugar, cardiovascular support, and protection against infections.
Ingredients (organic/biodynamic):
- 1 c. cucumber slices
- 1/4 c. fresh lime juice
- Sparkling water
- 3-4 drops herbal bitters (such as PERQUE DigestivAide™)
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Muddle cucumber slices with basil leaves in a glass.
- Add fresh lime juice and stir well.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Add herbal bitters, adjust to taste.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.
Pineapple Sage Sparkler
Pineapple provides vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that supports protein digestion and may help reduce inflammation and discomfort. It may also support immune function and tissue repair. Lime benefits were described above. Sage is an herb rich in vitamin K, along with smaller amounts of other vitamins and minerals. It also contains more than 160 polyphenol compounds with antioxidant activity. Sage has been associated with support for healthy cholesterol levels, balanced blood sugar, oral health, cognitive function, and bone health.
Ingredients (organic/biodynamic):
- 1/2 c. fresh pineapple juice
- 1/4 c. fresh lime juice
- Sparkling water
- 3-4 drops herbal bitters (such as PERQUE DigestivAide™)
- 4-6 fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
- Combine fresh pineapple and lime juice in a glass.
- Top the juice mixture with sparkling water.
- Add 6-8 fresh sage leaves to the mixture; you can adjust based on your preference for sage flavor.
- Add herbal bitters and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh sage leaves and serve.
Hibiscus Rose Twilight
Hibiscus and bitters benefits were discussed above. Rose water contains vitamins A, B, C, and E, along with antioxidants and flavonoids. It may help relieve digestive issues and help soothe sore throats.
Ingredients (organic/biodynamic):
- 1/2 c. hibiscus tea (cooled)
- 1/4 c. rose water
- Sparkling water
- 3-4 drops herbal bitters (such as PERQUE DigestivAide™)
- Edible rose petals (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Mix hibiscus tea and rose water in a glass.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Add herbal bitters and adjust to taste.
- Garnish with edible rose petals and serve.