Welcome to Monterey Bay Spice Co.
Plants may be small and, in many cases, appear wispy and frail, but they are not defenseless. They galvanize their defense systems with a variety of naturally occurring chemicals to protect themselves from disease and predatory insects. Some plants are better equipped in this sense than others. A diverse group of plants known as the bitter herbs, that range from chicory to coffee, are loaded with terpenes, alkaloids, tannins, isoflavones, saponins and other agents that help to protect them from harm.
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bulk gentian root, cut & sifted
The yellow root of gentian is a key ingredient in the well-known Stockton herbal bitters formula. Because it is very bitter, a little goes a long way. Works well with
dandelion root and leaf,
cardamom and
orange peel.
bulk orange peel, cut & sifted
The universal bitter, dried orange peel works in just about every combination of bitter herbs and aromatics.
bulk dandelion root, cut & sifted
Both the root and leaves of “lion’s tooth” are used in bitters formulas. Its mild flavor tempers more bitter herbs, such as burdock and gentian, and adds a bit of sweetness.
bulk burdock root, cut & sifted
As a rich source of the probiotic inulin, this is the workhorse of bitters. As an added bonus, the sliced root is also added to soups and stews!
bulk fennel seed, whole
In Medieval England, fennel seed was often carried to church to chew on during long services to tame a growling stomach. It combines well with just about any bitter or aromatic.
bulk licorice root, cut & sifted
The root of this beautiful flowering plant gets its scientific name from the Greek word that means “sweet root,” As such, this is herbal bitter is preferred by children.
