Winter Digestion — Supporting the Gut with Warming Herbs

Keywords: winter digestion, herbal bitters, gut health, digestion support, herbal recipes

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog series is for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new herbal regimen or making significant changes to your health routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a chronic illness, or are taking prescription medications. Use herbs responsibly and in consultation with trusted professionals.

Winter meals tend to be heavier, richer, and often less fibrous than our summer fare. While comforting, these foods can strain digestion, leading to sluggishness and discomfort. Maintaining digestive vitality in winter keeps energy levels steady and immunity strong — since nearly 70% of our immune system resides in the gut.

Bitters are a cornerstone of herbal digestive support. Plants like dandelion root, gentian, and orange peel prime the stomach for digestion by stimulating bile flow and enzyme production. Warming carminatives such as fennel, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon ease gas and bloating while improving circulation to the digestive organs.

Beyond herbs, mindful eating makes all the difference. Taking time to chew thoroughly, eating without distraction, and enjoying warm, cooked meals instead of cold salads in winter helps the digestive system stay in sync with the season.

Adding herbs to daily cooking — in soups, roasted vegetables, or even herbal vinegars — integrates these digestive allies seamlessly. A simple pre-meal tonic or herbal tea can also reawaken digestive fire and make hearty winter dishes easier to handle.

🍋 Warming Digestive Bitters Tonic

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp dried dandelion root

• 1 tbsp dried orange peel

• 1 tbsp dried ginger root

• ½ tbsp gentian root

• 1 cup 80–100 proof vodka or apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Combine herbs in a clean glass jar and cover completely with vodka or vinegar.

2. Cap tightly and shake daily for 3–4 weeks.

3. Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.

Take ½–1 teaspoon before meals to support digestion and ease post-meal heaviness.

At Verdigris Market Garden, we believe herbalism isn’t just a practice—it’s a lifestyle rooted in connection, care, and conscious choices. On our website, www.verdigrismarketgarden.com, you’ll find an ever-growing selection of plant-based apothecary, personal care, and wellness products, handcrafted in small batches with the herbs we grow right here on our off-grid urban farm.

For deeper guidance on bringing herbal wisdom into everyday life, check out my books: Everyday Herbal: Solutions for Natural Living and Herbal & Holistic Healthcare for Men—both available online and on Amazon.

Stay connected with us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for daily inspiration, seasonal updates, and new videos from the garden and beyond.

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