Organic Cinchona Bark – Quinine Bark Tea Cut | Cinchona officinalis | Bitter Tonic Herb for Herbal Extracts & Beverages

Organic Cinchona Bark – Quinine Bark Tea Cut | Cinchona officinalis | Bitter Tonic Herb for Herbal Extracts & Beverages

Richly bitter and steeped in history, this organic Cinchona bark is used in tea, tonic water, herbal syrups, and classic apothecary blends.

Herbal Overview

Cinchona Bark is also known as Quina or Quinine Bark, is one of the most historically significant botanicals in herbal and beverage traditions. Native to South America and harvested from the rugged slopes of cinchona trees, this bark is known for its earthy scent, astringent bitterness, and long-standing use in both folk remedies and classic tonics.

Traditionally used in small amounts, cinchona bark is steeped for tea, decocted into syrups, or infused into specialty drinks and culinary recipes. Its naturally occurring quinine gives it the distinctive bitterness known in tonic water, as well as its role in classic cocktails like the gin and tonic.

Our organic small-cut bark is sustainably harvested and contains the fine, silvery fibers that naturally occur within the plant—an authentic hallmark of cinchona. While deeply rooted in apothecary traditions, this bark must be used with care and intention.

Herbal Profile

Botanical Name: Cinchona officinalis
Plant Family: Rubiaceae
Status: Certified Organic
Origin: Mexico
Caffeine Content: Naturally Caffeine-Free
Herbal Actions: Bitter, tonic, astringent, antipyretic
Suggested Preparations:
– Steep as an herbal tea (use sparingly)
– Craft homemade tonic water and bitters
– Infuse into syrups, sodas, or ice creams
– Use in DIY herbal liqueurs or cocktail blends

Packaging Details

Packed in the style of an old-world apothecary supply order, each portion is sealed in a protective inner pouch and then wrapped in kraft paper, secured with a brass fastener, and tied with string.

This General Store Parcel Wrap is reminiscent of paper parcels tucked onto wooden shelves and labeled by hand. As always, transfer to a glass jar upon arrival for best keeping.

Stillroom Notes

We carry cinchona bark for its deep roots in history and its role in true botanical crafting. It's one of those ingredients that reminds us of the fine line between plant and potion. While beautiful and storied, this herb requires respect—best suited for experienced herbalists, bartenders, and small-batch creators.

Simple Recipe

Classic Quina Tea
– ½ tsp cinchona bark
– 8 oz hot water

Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes. Strain well before drinking. Do not exceed 2 grams per day. Not recommended for pregnant or nursing individuals.

Suggested Pairings

Gentian Root
Citrus Peel
Chamomile
Cinnamon Chips