What Is Swedish Bitters?
Swedish Bitters is an elixir, made from the extracts of 11 herbs. Believers in the use of Swedish Bitters claim that it enhances one's health and well-being by improving the digestive system.
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Origins of Swedish Bitters
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Swedish Bitters was created in 1541 by Phillipus Paracelsus, a Swiss physician. Paracelsus' formula was rediscovered in the 18th century by Swedish physician Claus Samst and later popularized in the 20th century by Austrian herbalist Maria Treben.
Ingredients
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There are 11 herbs in Swedish Bitters: aloe, myrrh, saffron, senna leaf, camphor, rhubarb root, zedoary, manna, theriac venezian, carline thistle root, and angelica root. These herbs are generally mixed with alcohol or a combination of alcohol and water to produce the Swedish Bitters elixir.
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Benefits of Swedish Bitters
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The primary benefits claimed by those who promote Swedish Bitters are that it aids digestion, promotes regularity, and improves one's sense of well being. Other claims include stress reduction, skin cleansing, inflammation reduction, and blood purification.
Side Effects of Swedish Bitters
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Before choosing to use any medication or supplement (herbal or otherwise), it is important to consult a physician. Some reported side effects related to Swedish Bitters have included dehydration, cramping, rashes and skin sensitivity, and digestive disorders.
Forms of Swedish Bitters
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Swedish Bitters is made by a wide range of herbal medicine companies and may be found in liquid form that can be ingested, as well as cream and liquid forms for external use. There are also many online sources that provide instructions for home preparation.
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