The Story of Ricola

The story began in summer 1940. Master baker and company founder Emil Richterich had long been interested in herbs and how they could be used, taking inspiration from the renowned Swiss herb specialist Johann Künzle.

However, Richterich was not content to simply learn about the various herbs native to Switzerland – he started to experiment with them and unearth their special properties. And his efforts were not in vain: that summer, Richterich created the recipe used in the Ricola herb drops which are famous around the world today. The recipe hasn’t changed since it was invented.

Emil Richterich sourced the 13 herbs used to create the special Ricola mixture from the Laufental District, now home to the company’s headquarters. The master baker may also have been inspired by the weird and wonderful names of some of the herbs and the special qualities they are said to have. The exact recipe remains a secret today.

Today, Ricola exports Swiss herbal specialities all over the world where their unique flavours and herbal goodness create delicious moments of happiness every day.