This is actually a good time to start thinking about winter illnesses and the immune system. With so many great herbs to choose from that help boost the immune system it is easy to make a variety of tinctures to have on hand. Echinacea is a common favorite, Echinacea mixed with ginger is extra potent for winter ills. Rosemary is another good choice, as well as Goldenseal, Raspberry leaf, Elderflowers, Thyme, Mint, Sage, Oregano and also Horseradish.
You will need:
• Herbs and/ or roots
• Jars with tight fitting lids
• Alcohol (80-90 proof Vodka) or Apple Cider Vinegar
Determine the size jar you will use by how much herb you have to work with. You will want to fill your jar 2/3 to 3/4 full of fresh herbs, or 1/4 to 1/2 full with fresh roots. Or if you are using dried, you will fill your jar 1/2 to 3/4 full with herbs or 1/4 to 1/3 with roots. Cover the herbs or roots with alcohol or vinegar, but leave an inch of space at the top of the jar Dried herbs will expand, dried roots will expand half again their size. Make sure your lids are tight, and cover the top of the jar with a plastic bag if using metal lids to avoid metal contamination.
Store your jars away from direct sunlight and shake well several times per week. Check the level of the alcohol or vinegar, making sure the herbs are still covered. Add more alcohol or Vinegar when needed. Herbs exposed to air can introduce mold and bacteria to your tincture. Continue for approximately 6 weeks.
At the end of 6 weeks or more, line a strainer with unbleached muslin and pour the herbs through the cloth. Wring as much liquid as you can out of the of the remaining herbs. Pour the liquid tincture into amber bottles, label and date. Your alcohol tinctures can be handed down to your grandchildren, therefore need no expiration date. Keep in mind though, the alcohol tincture will not spoil but may become less potent after 3 - 5 years. The Vinegar however should be stored in a cool dark place or even the refrigerator, and should be disposed of after 1 year.
The Vinegar is a good alternative to alcohol for those who want to avoid alcohol, otherwise add the alcohol tincture to hot water and the alcohol will evaporate with the steam.
Two droppers full of tincture is equal to one 8oz cup of herbal tea. The average dose for an alcohol tincture is 1 teaspoon 2 -3 times per day. The vinegar will not be as potent as the alcohol tincture, the average dose is 1-2 teaspoons 2-3 times per day.
