Swedish Bitters

"At a time when majority of mankind has moved away from life's natural ways, when illness, caused by a changed attitude to life - threatens, we should turn again to medicinal herbs which God in His Greatness has provided for us since time immemorial." - Maria Treben

Swedish Bitters is a unique herbal remedy made by Dr. Phillipus Paracelsus. He was a 16th century Swiss Physician. Swedish Bitters was rediscovered by Dr. Claus Samst, and Dr. Urban Hjärne, Swedish medics, who practiced medicine in the 1800s, thus, the name Swedish Bitters. Dr. Samst used it on his patients and got exceptional results. He lived up to the age of 104 years and the cause of his death wasn't disease or old age, but a riding accident.

Today, the remedy has been widely popularized by Maria Treben, an Austrian herbalist. It has become a regular health tonic in Europe, commonly know as, 'the Long Life Elixir'. It is said that Swedish Bitters was very common in the daily diet of the olden days. It is believed, the bitter taste activates, tones and strengthens the liver, gall bladder and all digestive organs. Thus, it is possible for our metabolism to rebuild its equilibrium.

Swedish Bitters is used to cure a number of ailments. It is claimed that it can be used for blood cleansing, insomnia, allergies, and for treating cold and flu. People have used it to cure chronic metabolic problems and digestive difficulties. It is very useful for people with problems of blood circulation and low physical and mental energy. It helps to ease constipation and regulates the bowel movements. It can be very helpful for those who have had their gallbladder removed. It can be effective in reducing bloating and gas.

Swedish Bitters Recipe

10 gm Aloe
5 gm Myrrh
0.2 gm Saffron
10 gm Senna leaves
10 gm Camphor
10 gm Angelica roots
10 gm Zedvoary roots
10 gm Manna
10 gm Theriac venezian
5 gm Carline Thistle roots
10 gm Rhubarb roots

Method of Preparation
This mixture is put into a wide-necked 2 liter bottle. A 1 and 1/2 liter of 38% to 40% rye or fruit spirit is poured over it. The bottle is left standing in the sun or near the stove for 14 days and it is shaken daily. The liquid is then strained and poured into small bottles, well stoppered and stored in a cool place. This mixture can be used for years. The longer it stands, the more effective it becomes.

'Old Manuscript', is a transcript of the Swedish Bitters Curative powers. It contains 43 points that covers almost all the diseases which can be treated using Swedish Bitters. According to the Old Manuscript, this remedy can also be used externally by dabbing it on insect bites, pimples, cold sore and chicken pox blisters. It can also be used as a compress for stomach aches, sore throats, mumps, sprains and strains, swelling, arthritis, pains and aches, tennis elbow and cramps. For headaches, one has to lie down for 15 minutes and apply a cloth dipped with Bitters to the forehead, back of the head or neck.

The herbal remedy is used by many people across Europe. One can't overlook the claims of effectiveness and testimonials by people who have used this bitter tonic. Before trying out this remedy, one should consult a qualified medical practitioner. 'Bitter' be safe, than sorry.