Everything you need to know about Tonic Water

What is Tonic Water?

Tonic water is a clear carbonated drink used to blend with cocktails. It is created with several botanical components, including quinine, an extraction from cinchona bark. Cinchona trees can be discovered in Indonesia, the Caribbean, and Africa. 

In the 17th century, it was discovered and brought to South America. Spanish explorers received cinchona bark from the indigenous people dwelling there.

Why Did People Drink Tonic Water?

During the global malaria outbreak in India and other British colonies, a medicinal drink called Indian Tonic was used to combat the deadly disease. This drink contained quinine, extracted from the “fever tree,” which possessed fever-reducing properties. Today, tonic water contains much lower quinine levels and is enjoyed for its distinctive flavor, rather than solely for its medicinal qualities.

What Does Tonic Water Taste Like?

Tonic water tastes slightly bitter, but the fizziness mitigates it. Plus, tonic waters have multiple flavors such as citrus, herbal, and spice notes. 

Is Club Soda and Tonic Water the Same Thing?

Both club soda and tonic water are different varieties of carbonated water but do not have the same taste. Club soda is prepared with carbon dioxide, mineral salt, and sometimes sodium bicarbonate, whereas tonic water ingredients are sugar, citrus, and some botanicals.  

Do you like fizzy soda? Then check out this fizzy fact about soda bubbles. 

Tonic Water Benefits

Tonic water boasts some benefits, but they’re mostly related to hydration and personal preference, rather than any magical health properties. Here’s a breakdown:

• Hydration: It is essentially carbonate, so it contributes to your daily fluid intake, which is essential for overall health.
• Flavor: The bitter quinine content in tonic water gives it a distinct flavor that some people enjoy. It’s a popular mixer for gin and vodka due to its taste.
• Possible Leg cramp relief (anecdotally): Some people find tonic water helps with nighttime leg cramps and restless legs syndrome, but there’s no strong scientific evidence to support this.

The nutritional information of tonic water is less, except for the antimalarial properties. However,  added ingredients like citrus and other herbals may possess some medicinal value. 

Why Is Tonic Water Good For?

Primarily, it is good for mixing with the gin. It goes well with spicy and cheesy foods. Tonic water can be incorporated into sorbets and marinades. 

Side Effects:

Consumption of tonic water may lead to:

• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Nervousness
• Ringing in the ears