Tincture

When we use alcohol as a solvent to draw out the properties of a herb, the result is called a Tincture.
If you use any other solvent like water, vinegar or glycerin, we call it an extract. If you infuse an oil with the herb, then we will call it an essential oil.

Why Tincture
Tinctures extract and concentrate the medicinal properties of a herb more than any other method.
When Tinctures are administered they enter the blood stream within seconds. The speed of absorption and the higher concentration make the remedy very potent.

How to make Tincture:
Take Alcohol. Preferably Vodka-- should be 100 proof vodka. A lower proof is not that good and higher proofs may damage organs like Liver and Kidneys.

(Note: Use a Glass jar or Clay pot to make Tincture.)

Tincture of Dried herb: Add 200 gm of dried herb in One Liter of Alcohol .
Tincture of Powdered herb: Add 100 gm of powdered herb in ½ Liter of Alcohol.

Seal the container. Place it in a cool, dark area. Shake it regularly for about 21 days. Strain it through a cotton cloth.
The strained alcohol is the tincture. It will have all the medicinal properties of the herb. It will be more concentrated and more potent than the herb itself.
If sealed properly, it will last for years. The older the tincture is, the more effective it is.

Notes : For storage, seal the cap with wax.

Caution :
Keep away from Children and Pets.