Description
Quassia (Quassia amara), also known as Bitterwood, Amargo, Suriname Quassia, or Quassia Wood, is one of the most renowned bitter herbs in traditional herbalism. Belonging to the Simaroubaceae family, this tropical tree carries a history that spans from indigenous Amazonian practice to European apothecaries.
-
Botanical Identity: A medium-sized tree native to Central and South America and parts of the Caribbean, Quassia thrives in humid tropical climates, especially within the Amazon Basin. Its wood is exceptionally bitter, rich in natural compounds that define its unique character.
-
History & Heritage: The plant was named after Graman Quassi, an 18th-century Surinamese healer of African descent who introduced its uses to Europeans. Indigenous communities traditionally relied on Quassia wood as a cleansing and balancing herb, while European herbalists adopted it into pharmacopeias as a classic bitter tonic.
-
Taste & Aroma: Strongly bitter — even in the smallest amounts, Quassia imparts a sharp, penetrating flavor. Its bitterness is what makes it so prized in tonics and bitters formulations.
-
Traditional & Culinary Uses:
-
Teas & Decoctions: Shaved chips infused into hot water create a classic herbal bitter brew.
-
Bitters & Tonics: Widely used in aperitifs, digestive bitters, and cocktail blends.
-
Tinctures/Extracts: Popular in liquid extracts for apothecary use.
-
Topical Solutions: Traditionally included in washes and rinses in folk practice.
-
-
Why choose Herbal Fuel Quassia? Our Quassia wood is carefully sourced and dried, ensuring purity and potency. Packaged with respect for herbal tradition, it’s ready for use in teas, tonics, or your apothecary projects.
🌿 Storage Guidance: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
👉 Note: Extremely bitter. Use sparingly. Food-grade product intended for culinary, bitters, and traditional.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This product is a natural herbal supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information provided is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Please consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal product, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
