Our ancestors regularly consumed a diet that included ample bitter herbs and vegetables, particularly in early spring after a long winter of sweet celebratory foods and preserved goods, which helped them maintain efficient digestive systems and happy organs. Although we have four different taste buds on our tongues that discern taste (sour, sweet, salty and bitter), the conventional modern American diet is mostly void of bitter substances. Spring is a great time to integrate bitters into your routine, or anytime you’re struggling with sluggish energy, issues of the skin, and poor digestion- I like offering a small batch bitter in my spring update and this year I’m delighted to share one of my favorite folk medicines!

The story of Swedish bitters:

This is the recipe known to Austrian herbalist Maria Trebens of a centuries-old elixir that was once an integral part of European folk medicine.

The original bitters recipe dates back to the 16th century, when it was created by the famous physician Paracelsus.

In 1850 Dr. Claus Samst of Sweden refined, researched and confirmed its restorative benefits, and gave it the name Swedish Bitters. He was a believer in the potion and consumed it himself, living to the ripe old age of 104.

Maria Treben is credited with placing the formula in the modern spotlight through her best-selling book Health Through Gods Pharmacy, published in 1980.

The 22 herb formula as known to Maria and Doc Claus: Angelica Root, Aloes, Common Club Moss, Pimpinella, Carline Thistle, Speedwell, Althaea Root, Gentian Root, Calamus Root, Camphor, Rock Candy (Sucrose and Water), Mistletoe, Myrrh, Nutmeg, Rhubarb Root, Saffron, Senna Leaves, Ginkgo, Theriaca (Valerian Root, Cinnamon, Cardamom), Tormetilla Root, Wormwood, and Cinnamon Bark infused into Swedish vodka for at least 22 days.

Fair warning: ITS BITTER! This is not your average cocktail bitter.

This is not medicine and I am not a doctor, we do not prescribe, treat or cure disease. No website comment or social media share should be considered health advice. You are responsible for consulting a medical professional before trying any new herb or remedy mentioned in the website or any related forum. Stop using if irritation occurs!

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