What Is A Tincture?

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What Is A Tincture? By: Wystira MoonsingerWhat is a tincture? Well, tinctures are mixtures of mostly bitter herbs and alcohol. You can use grain alcohol, vodka, rum, brandy, whatever you desire. When using bitter herbs, something is needed to "cover up" the strong,sometimes nasty taste of the herbs and alcohol does just that. When making a tincture, keep in mind if you're going to use it on adults or children. You should never use alcohol for children. If you're going to be giving the tincture to children, try using cider vinegar instead of the alcohol. But, remember, vinegar doesn't extract certain herbs as well as the alcohol.Tinctures are a more concentrated than either infusions or decoctions. You can usually store your tinctures for up to 2 years. The dosage for a tincture is usually 1/2 to 1 teaspoon up to 3 times per day. Remember: always store your preparations in a sterilized glass container with a non-metalic lid.Precaution: Never use rubbing alcohol or denatured alcohol for making tinctures. These are both highly toxic and should NEVER be taken internally.A Basic Recipe for a Tincture1. 1 oz. dried herb2. 5 oz. alcohol (or vinegar for children)3. Combine the ingredients in a clean, sterized glass jar with a non-metalic lid.4. Keep the jar in a cool, dry place from 2 to 6 weeks.5. Shake the jar periodically to help keep the extract active.6. After 2-6 weeks, strain the liquid into another clean, sterilized glass jar.7. The tincture may be safely stored for up to 2 years.8. Dosage:1/2 to 1 teaspoon, no more than 3 times per day.