A traditional herbal formula used for centuries across Native American, European, and Chinese cultures, Swedish Bitters is a multi-purpose digestive tonic known for its bitter herbs that support overall gut health and digestive function. This blend dates back to the 1500s and remains one of the most popular herbal tinctures today due to its versatility.
Key Benefits & Uses:
-
Supports healthy digestion, bile flow, and appetite stimulation
-
Contains Aloe, traditionally used as a stimulant laxative to relieve constipation
-
Includes Black Cohosh, used traditionally to relieve menstrual pain and promote menstrual flow
-
May assist with headaches, sore throats, skin irritations, and insect bites when used externally
How to Use:
Oral Use (Adults): Take 20 mL in 100 mL of water, juice, or herbal tea, 30 minutes before meals, three times daily.
External Use:
-
Apply gauze soaked in undiluted Swedish Bitters for skin healing, insect bites, swelling, or inflamed joints (cover for 2–4 hours).
-
For headaches, apply to the forehead or back of neck for 15 minutes.
Gargle: Mix 60 mL in 250 mL lukewarm water for relief of sore throat or toothache.
Active Ingredients (per 20 mL):
Tinctures equivalent to dried:
-
Aloe ferox (Aloe) leaf inner juice – 133.34 mg
-
Cassia angustifolia (Senna) leaf – 133.34 mg
-
Rheum officinale (Rhubarb) root & rhizome – 133.34 mg
-
Commiphora molmol (Myrrh)* – 85.72 mg
-
Curcuma zedoaria (Zedoary)* – 152.38 mg
-
Fraxinus ornus (Manna ash) – 133.34 mg
-
Carlina acaulis (Carline thistle) root – 66.66 mg
-
Angelica archangelica (Angelica)* – 152.38 mg
-
Cimicifuga racemosa (Black Cohosh)* – 19.06 mg
-
Valeriana officinalis (Valerian)* – 19.06 mg
-
Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon)* – 19.06 mg
-
Elettaria cardamomum (Cardamom)* – 19.06 mg
-
Crocus sativus (Saffron) – 2.66 mg
-
Camphor (non-active ingredient) – 133.34 mg
(*These ingredients are also known as theriac.)
Precautions:
-
Contains 40% alcohol (ethanol).
-
Not recommended for children under 12 years.
-
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
-
Prolonged use may cause serious bowel issues – drink plenty of water.
-
Do not use if experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
-
In rare cases, Black Cohosh may be linked to liver failure. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if you notice signs such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, fatigue, or loss of appetite.
-
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.
