How to make an alcohol base tincture

A tincture is a concentrated liquid form of an herb that is easy to make and use. Tinctures preserve and concentrate the properties of the herb, this makes it more effective to use than herbal teas and longer lasting. Alcohol based tinctures have a shelf life of several years. Its less expensive to make your own, and you can make several ml at a time, it saves money, and you will always have your own medicine bag made to your specifications.

 Supplies:

An alcohol base makes them the most long lasting, but tinctures can also be made with glycerine, vinegar or even with honey to make a syrup.

To make a tincture, you will need the following supplies:

• A clean glass jar (at least pint size) with lid
•  Alcohol like vodka or rum- at least 80 proof (or apple cider vinegar, this will not preserve as long as an 80 proof or more alcohol) 
• Herbs of choice 

How to Make a Tincture:

Also called an extract (in fact, the same process is used to make real vanilla extract), alcohol tinctures are the most common type and the easiest to make.

• Fill the jar 1/3 to 1/2 full with dried herbs. Filling half full will make a stronger tincture. Do not pack down.
• Pour boiling water to just dampen all of the herbs. (optional)
• Fill the rest of the jar (or the entire jar if not using hot water too) with alcohol and stir with a clean spoon.
• Put the lid on the jar. Store the jar in a cool,dry, dark place and remember to shake daily, for at least three weeks and up to six months. 
• Strain through cheesecloth and compost the herbs. Store the tincture in colored dropper bottles or clean glass jar.

 Alcohol can be evaporated before use, if you add your tincture drops into a hot cup of water or tea.  Tincture can be made with the made method described above by using apple cider vinegar, though it will need to be stored in the fridge and will only last 3-6 months.