The Search for Cures

SMALL SWEDISH BITTERS

What are they?

Swedish bitters is a 250 year old recipe which fell into the hands of Maria Treben, who recounted in her book, Health Through God's Pharmacy, the wonderful and potent healing effects of this herbal combination. There are two kinds, Great and Small. I've only ever seen the Small version, though I understand the the Great is sold somewhere.

What is in them?

10 gm. Aloe*
5 gm. Myrrh
0,2 gm. Saffron
10 gm. Senna leaves
10 gm. Camphor**
10 gm. Rhubarb roots
10 gm. Zedvoary roots
10 gm. Manna
10 gm. Theriac venezian
5 gm. Carline Thistle roots
10 gm. Angelica roots

* Instead of Aloe, Gientian root or Wormwood powder
** Only natural Camphor should be used.

Okay, then. How do you make them?

This mixture is put into a wide-necked 2 litre bottle and 1 1/2 litre of 38% to 40% rye or fruit spirit are poured over it. The bottle is left standing in the sun or near the stove for 14 days and shaken daily. The liquid is then strained and poured into small bottles, well stoppered and stored in a cool place. This way it can be kept for many years. The longer it stands the more effective it becomes! Shake well before use! Alternatively some of the liquid can be strained into a small bottle and the rest left in the bottle until required.

 

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