Bitters are concentrated botanical extracts, traditionally made by infusing herbs, spices, roots, and barks in alcohol. These highly flavored liquids are used either in small amounts for flavoring drinks or in larger doses as digestive aids. Because their composition and intended use vary widely, understanding these distinctions is important to clarify the potential safety concerns surrounding their use.
Understanding the Different Types of Bitters
The term “bitters” refers to two distinct categories of products. The first category is cocktail bitters, which are highly concentrated tinctures used to flavor beverages. These products often have a high alcohol content, sometimes ranging from 35% to 45% alcohol by volume (ABV), similar to strong spirits.
Despite the high ABV, cocktail bitters are used in very small quantities, typically just a dash or two per drink. This usage means the amount of alcohol consumed is negligible. The primary concern with cocktail bitters is flavor complexity, and their use is purely for culinary purposes.
The second category is digestive bitters, which are intended to be consumed in larger doses, sometimes by the spoonful or as a small glass of liqueur. These products are marketed as herbal remedies to stimulate digestion by activating bitter taste receptors, which can increase the secretion of saliva and gastric juices. Digestive bitters are often lower in alcohol, sometimes around 20% to 30% ABV, or are made with a non-alcoholic base like glycerin or apple cider vinegar.
Because digestive bitters are consumed in greater volumes for their purported health benefits, the concentration and type of herbal ingredients become a greater safety consideration. The distinction between a few drops for flavor and a larger dose for digestive support fundamentally changes the safety discussion for the average user.
Essential Safety Considerations
The primary safety concerns with bitters relate to their alcohol content, the regulatory status of their herbal ingredients, and the risk of contamination. Many popular cocktail bitters are high-proof alcohol tinctures, and while a dash is generally safe, consuming them in larger, “digestive” volumes can quickly lead to significant alcohol intake. This is particularly relevant for individuals avoiding alcohol for health, religious, or personal reasons.
A significant concern for herbal and digestive bitters is the lack of strict regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Herbal supplements are regulated as food products, not as drugs, meaning they do not undergo the safety and efficacy testing required for prescription medications. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and labeling of their products before they are marketed.
This limited regulatory oversight can lead to products that are mislabeled or that contain contaminants. Certain herbal supplements, including those used in bitters, have been found to contain heavy metals such as lead, mercury, or arsenic. Consumers must rely on manufacturers’ self-monitoring, making it important to seek products that have undergone third-party testing for purity.
Guidelines for Consumption and Contraindications
Specific health conditions and life stages require using bitters with caution due to the powerful botanical ingredients they contain. Pregnancy and breastfeeding should be avoided, as the effects of concentrated herbs, such as gentian or wormwood, on a developing fetus or nursing infant are not well-established.
Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions should also be cautious, as the mechanism of bitters is to stimulate the secretion of gastric acid. Conditions like peptic ulcers or gastritis may be worsened by this increase in stomach acid. This stimulation can aggravate symptoms like heartburn, nausea, and cramping.
The botanical ingredients in bitters can interact with prescription medications. For instance, the common bittering agent gentian has demonstrated properties that may affect blood clotting. This means that consuming gentian-containing bitters could potentially interfere with blood thinners or pose a risk before surgery.
Dosage is another guideline, as an effective dose for digestion is often very close to a dose that causes side effects. Bitters are potent, and even a slight overdose can result in adverse reactions such as headache, nausea, or vomiting. Consumers should strictly follow the manufacturer’s recommended serving size and always seek professional medical advice before incorporating any digestive bitters into their routine, especially if they have chronic health issues or are taking any long-term medication.