Swedish Bitters is made up of 11 different herbs combined synergistically so that the resulting elixir has benefits far greater than can be attributed to the individual herbs that go into it. The formula contains aloe leaf, senna leaf, rhubarb root, manna and carline thistle, combined with saffron and camphor, plus another ingredient known as theriac – an historical herbal combination of angelica root powder, black cohosh, cardamom, cinnamon, myrrh, valerian and zedoary root.
Swedish Bitters’ Applications
Swedish Bitters is popular today as a medicinal tonic that can be used both internally and externally. It is especially effective for digestive complaints, as it:
- cleanses the system
- assists digestion
- promotes regularity
I have personally seen the effectiveness of Swedish Bitters and have received many letters from people who have discovered its health benefits.
Notes for using Swedish Bitters
There are a few special points worth remembering when using Swedish Bitters:
- It’s generally best to dilute the elixir in a cup of herbal tea or pure fruit juice, as it has a bitter taste. When using the extract externally (on the skin), always use it undiluted.
- You should not take it if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.
- You shouldn’t rely on this (or any other product) to keep you ‘regular’ – if you tend to be constipated, it’s really important to increase the fibre in your diet, drink plenty of water and be physically active.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please speak to your health professional before taking Swedish Bitters.
How to prepare and apply a Swedish Bitters’ compress
Soak cotton wool or a clean cloth (depending on the size of the area you are treating) with Swedish Bitters. Rub some calendula cream on the affected area to prevent your skin from drying. Apply the moistened compress and overwrap with plastic film slightly larger than the compress. Cover with a woollen/ flannel cloth or hand towel. Secure the compress with a scarf or bandage and leave for 4–5 hours or overnight.
Find out more about the medicinal benefits of Swedish Bitters and other herbs through enrolling in our Online Herbal Medicine Course today!