Tonic Water : History, How to Consume, Nutrients, Side Effects

What is Tonic Water?

Tonic water is a non-alcoholic flavored soda consumed by mixing with other drinks. It is a carbonated beverage concocted with the bark of cinchona trees found in Central America, the Caribbean, Indonesia, and Africa. It is better so it is often sweetened with sugar or any fruit extracts. It is mixed with drinks like gin, vodka, and other beverages for consumption. 

History of Tonic Water

Tonic water was not a carbonated drink when it was introduced. Its purpose was to treat a sudden outbreak of a killer disease.

In the 17th century, Spanish people consumed quinine bark to cure malaria. This remedy was passed to them by the indigenous people of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. By the 19th century, India and other British colonies were affected by a malaria outbreak, hence they were introduced to this medicinal drink called Indian Tonic, aka tonic water. The quinine extract has fever-reducing properties that may help alleviate the sickness. It is often blended with sugar and soda to minimize its bitterness.

Later, the drink was officially introduced to the market in 1858 by Erasmus Bond, the owner of Pitt & Co. This blended drink of gin and tonic was brought to British Colonial India. The British shared the tonic recipe with the Indians so it could be easily prepared.

How to Consume Tonic Water?

It is commonly mixed with alcoholic drinks. Most people prefer a tonic with a splash of citrus flavor by squeezing a piece of lemon into it. Tonic water is also used as a palate cleanser during a heavy dinner. It tastes much better with gin and other liquors. Besides gin, tonic water is also mixed with fortified wines.

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 its ingredients are quinine, carbonated water, and sugar.  

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Is It Good for Your Health?

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. 

What Does Tonic Water Taste Like?

It tastes slightly bitter, but the fizziness mitigates it. Plus, tonic water has multiple flavors such as citrus, herbal, and spice notes. Some brands prepare the tonic with less sugar and natural ingredients while others add more sugars to reduce the bitterness. The ingredients and concoction may differ from brand to brand.

Calories in Tonic Water 

The calorie of tonic water is low compared to other carbonated drinks. A 12-ounce of tonic water contains an average amount of 115 calories because of the sugar found in the water. In case you are looking for drinks that are high in calories go for sparkling water or club soda. 

Nutrients in Tonic Water 

The following table represents the nutrient content.

Since tonic water contains more sugar, it is a go-to option for carbonated drinks. 

Drinks with Tonic Water 

Tonic water isn’t as readily available as club soda and seltzer among other drinks. It boasts a strong flavor with hints of sweetness and bitterness, making it a great addition to summer cocktails.

Here are a few drinks that contain tonic water

• Vodka
• Gin and Tonic
• Campari and soda
• Whiskey
• Tequila and Tonic
• Japanese Highball

Is It Okay to Consume Tonic Water without Other Drinks?

The quinine compound in the tonic will taste bitter so usually it is not served straight. It pairs well when mixing with cocktails or classic gin. 

Who Should Avoid Consuming Quinine?

Though tonic water is regular carbonate water, the quinine content can cause allergic effects at times. People should avoid consuming quinine if they are:

• Pregnant 
• Breastfeeding 
• Have cardiac problems 
• Diagnosed with liver or kidney issues
• Suffer from low blood sugar 

What Are the Quinine Limits in Tonic Water?

For medicinal purposes, tonic water is prepared with carbonated water and significant amounts of quinine. However, modern tonic doesn’t taste as bitter due to lower quinine content and more citrus flavor. Additionally, high fructose corn syrup or sugar is added to enhance sweetness. Some brands have even introduced slimline or diet tonic water with artificial sweeteners like aspartame. Original tonic water is less common but favored by those who enjoy its robust flavor.

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The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulated quinine content to meet safety requirements. Tonic water typically contains 83 ppm quinine, with therapeutic dosages ranging from 500mg to 1000mg for certain medical uses, such as malaria treatment (dosage depends on BMI and health conditions).

Side Effects of Tonic Water

Regular consumption of tonic water may cause side effects, including fixed eruption, a skin condition caused by its quinine content. Excessive intake can lead to nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, nervousness, and ringing in the ears. In some cases, individuals have experienced fixed eruption after consuming tonic water, whether mixed or consumed alone.

Fluorescence effect 

The quinine is known for its fluorescence effect; it glows under ultraviolet rays. The chemical compounds in quinine exhibit heat through light instead of heat.