In this article we would like to tell you something about “Swedish bitters”. This is a high-proof herbal mixture that was developed in Sweden as early as the 17th century by the physician and chemist Urban Hjärne and sold in pharmacies under the name “Elexir Amarum”.

In Germany the bitter herb elixir became popular only in the 80’s by the work of the Austrian Kräuterkundlerin Maria Treben (1907-1991), which enumerated infinitely many application type for the small Sweden bitter in its book ?welfare herbs from the garden of God?

But what is actually inside Swedish bitters? A look at the ingredients

Swedish bitters contains a number of herbs that can sometimes be described as quite “exotic”, which can make making Swedish bitters yourself quite complicated.

Nevertheless, we do not want to deprive you of the old recipe for the “little” Swedish bitters by Maria Treben:

  • 10 g of aloe or gentian root, wormwood powder can also be used.
  • 5 g myrrh
  • 0,2 g saffron
  • 10 g senna leaves
  • 10 g camphor (natural camphor)
  • 10 g citric root
  • 10 g manna
  • 10 g Venetian theriac
  • 5 g boar’s root
  • 10 g angelica root

Note: In this composition, the formulation is not allowed in over-the-counter herbal mixtures.

In the meantime, Swedish bitters are also used to refer to herbal formulations that have a different composition, but have an almost identical effect.

Find our sweden bitters herbs

 

Effect and application of Swedish bitters

The effect of Swedish bitters unfolds primarily through the valuable bitter substances of citron rootstock, galangal root and gentian root contained in it. Their bitter taste stimulates the production of our gastric and bile juices and thus supports our digestion in a natural way. The bitter substances found in angelica root are further supported by stomach-friendly essential oils. The laxative effect goes back to the contained senna leaves.

Maria Treben dedicated a whole 12 pages to Swedish bitters in her book and listed more than 40 points for which Swedish bitters can be used in various ways. And indeed you can – depending on the area of application – drink the Swedish bitters, inhale, rub, use as an overlay or wrap.

To the Swedish bitters

 

Swedish bitters for gastrointestinal problems

One of the best known applications of Swedish bitters is clearly the gastrointestinal area. For example, if you have problems with digestion, we recommend that you drink a teaspoon of Swedish bitters three times a day in some herbal tea or diluted with warm water because of its digestive properties. By the way, the same applies to stomach ailments or nausea. If the stomach ailments are rather stomach cramps, we recommend rather a tablespoon of Swedish bitters instead of the teaspoon.

Taking Swedish bitters can also have a positive effect on our intestines in case of diarrhea. In this case, depending on the severity of the symptoms, you should take a tea spoon or tablespoon of Swedish bitters with some warm water in small sips about half an hour before and after eating.

Swedish bitters as a weapon in the cold season

Coughs, colds, hoarseness: Swedish bitters can also support us during the cold season.

If you already have a severe cold, a simple inhalation with Swedish bitters can provide quick relief. Simply drip some bitters onto a spoon and inhale the vapors.

Those suffering from fever should mix a tablespoon of Swedish bitters with half a cup of chamomile tea. Half of the tea should be drunk half an hour before and half an hour after each meal. You can do the same for a sore throat. However, you should reduce the dose a bit: one teaspoon for half a cup of herbal tea is enough in this case.

 

To the chamomile flowers

 

With Swedish herbs against headache

We can also harness the power of Swedish bitters for headaches: To do this, simply drip some Swedish bitters on a cotton cloth and place it on the painful area. Ideally, you should leave the cloth to work for a quarter of an hour while lying down.

Swedish bitters for a peaceful sleep

Swedish bitters, in combination with the right herbal tea, can also ensure a more peaceful sleep. Simply add a teaspoon of Swedish bitters to the tea and drink the mixture before going to bed.

By the way: In our store you will find a number of delicious herbal tea blends such as “Evening Star” or our “Bedtime” tea, which have a relaxing and calming effect.

To the evening star
For “bedtime” tea

 

Swedish bitters and nettle tea against hay fever

Those who suffer from hay fever can also resort to Swedish bitters. For this purpose, we recommend drinking a teaspoon of Swedish bitters three times a day with a cup of nettle tea, sipped before and after meals.

 

To the nettle leaves

 

These are just a few of the possible applications of the versatile Swedish bitters. Should you have any other positive experiences, we are very happy about your comments here on the blog. If you have any questions about the intake, dosage and use of Swedish bitters, you can also contact us.