Description:

Adutwumwaa Bitters is a traditional Ghanaian herbal tonic (bitters mixture) widely used as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is primarily promoted for relief of piles (hemorrhoids), general bodily pains (including rheumatism and waist/back pain), menstrual pains, constipation, and sometimes hypertension. It is a popular over-the-counter herbal product in Ghana, often taken as a digestive aid and general wellness tonic with a bitter-sweet taste derived from its herbal blend.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) herbal supplement. No prescription required in Ghana; freely available in pharmacies, herbal shops, markets, and online retailers. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use, especially for persistent symptoms, pregnancy, or underlying conditions (e.g., hypertension, gastrointestinal disorders).

Therapeutic Category:

Traditional Herbal Tonic / Digestive Aid / Anti-inflammatory / Laxative (Herbal bitters for pain relief, constipation, piles, menstrual discomfort, and general wellness).

Active Ingredients/Composition: A blend of natural herbal extracts (traditional formulation):

• Rauwolfia vomitoria (Rauwolfia) – for pain relief and mild antihypertensive effects.
• Aloe ferox (Cape aloe) – laxative and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice root) – soothing for digestive tract and anti-inflammatory.
• Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon bark) – aids digestion and circulation. Other possible supporting herbs (in some descriptions): Khaya senegalensis or similar barks. The mixture is a liquid herbal preparation with no synthetic additives, chemicals, or preservatives in traditional forms.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Adutwumwaa Bitters (standard liquid mixture; common sizes 350ml, 500ml, or 1L bottles). Related variants: Adutwumwaa Capsules (solid form for convenience), Adutwumwaa Malamix (antimalarial variant), or Adutwumwaa Tonic (general tonic version). The queried bitters is the classic liquid herbal bitters.

Consume Type:

Oral – Liquid mixture (bitters; shake well before use; measured with spoon or cup).

Directions/Usage:

Adults: Typically 1–2 tablespoonfuls (15–30 ml) twice daily (morning and evening) after meals, or as directed.

• Take with plenty of water.
• Duration: Short-term (e.g., 3–7 days or until symptoms improve); do not use continuously long-term without advice.
• For constipation/piles: Use during episodes. Drink extra fluids and eat fiber-rich foods for best results. Not recommended for children without guidance.

Common Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated (herbal base); mild/rare:

• Gastrointestinal effects (diarrhea, stomach cramps, loose stools from laxative herbs like Aloe ferox).
• Mild abdominal discomfort or nausea.
• Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching if sensitive to herbs) or blood pressure changes (from Rauwolfia/licorice). Discontinue if severe diarrhea or discomfort occurs. No major documented side effects in standard short-term use.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle (typically 350ml, 500ml, or 1L; screw cap; labeled with herbal ingredients, indications, dosage, and manufacturer info).

Storage Advice:

Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (below 25–30°C), away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed after use. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Herbal supplement—not a substitute for medical treatment; consult doctor if symptoms persist, worsen, or include severe pain, blood in stool, high blood pressure issues, or fever (may indicate underlying conditions).
• Not recommended for pregnant women, lactating mothers, or young children (laxative/herbal effects and limited safety data).
• Avoid long-term continuous use (risk of dependency, electrolyte imbalance, or interactions).
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration from laxative action.
• If allergic to herbs or experience severe diarrhea/cramps, stop use and seek medical advice.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Substitutes: Similar herbal bitters/mixtures in Ghana include:

• Taabea Herbal Mixture (similar antimalarial/pain relief).
• Time Herbal Mixture or Rooter Mixture (for general pains/digestion).
• Other local bitters like Alafia Bitters or Happy Man Bitters.
• Conventional alternatives: Laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl) or pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen for pain/piles). Consult pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Beybee Pharmacy) for options.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Givers Herbal Centre / Givers Industries Ltd. (Ghana-based herbal company; producer of Adutwumwaa Bitters and related products). Marketed/distributed locally in Ghana by Givers or pharmacies/herbal outlets.

Country of Origin:

Ghana (manufactured locally as a traditional Ghanaian herbal product; widely available and promoted in Accra markets/pharmacies).