Back to the Basics!: How I Make Echinacea Tincture

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

How I Make Echinacea Tincture

Making your own herbal home remedies is easy. Herbal tea is a great start but Tinctures can a much stronger alternative. The cost to purchase 2 ounces in the store is almost 4 times what it would cost to make your own. Some are even 7 times more expensive! Source

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What is a Tincture?
An herbal tincture is simply an herbal extract. Herbal remedies have been used throughout history to treat illnesses and ailments without "modern medicine" and pharmaceuticals. Tinctures are easy to make, home remedies. If properly prepared and stored, your tincture will last indefinitely. Source

What are the benefits of Echinacea?
Echinacea is a classic member of the antiviral herbs. Not only does it fight viral and bacterial infection, it also stimulates the white blood cells and is good for the immune system. Use both the leaves and the roots of this plant. Source

To get started you'll need: A clean jar with a lid, vodka or everclear, herb(s), measuring cups and/or scale and labels.
If you purchase a DIY Tincture Kit from Mary's Heirloom Seeds, the herbs, jar with a lid. labels and dropper bottle are all included. All you need to do is measure out your menstruum and combine!

Let's get started making our Tincture!

DIY Organic Echinacea Tincture
Ingredients and tools:
1 clean jar with a lid (quart size)
5-6 cups of vodka or everclear
1 ounce of organic Echinacea (dried)

Directions:
1. Start with a cleaned and sterilized glass jar. Place organic Echinacea in your jar.
2. Measure out 3-4 cups of vodka or other menstruum and place inside your jar.
*If you choose to use ACV or Vegetable Glycerin, be aware that your Tincture will have a limited shelf life of approx 6 months*
3. Place the lid back on your jar and mix thoroughly.
4. Label your homemade Tincture with the Date and Ingredients.
4. Store in a cool dry place such as a kitchen cabinet
*Shake your brewing tincture regularly. I prefer to shake my tinctures 2-3 times per week.*

Start straining and consuming Echinacea Tincture after 4-6 weeks.
I take approx 1/2 teaspoon up to 3 times daily as needed.