Tincture formulae

How to make a Tincture

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method

-------- ------------ --------------------------------

1 ounce dried or powdered herbs

5 ounces vodka

Chop herbs finely with a knife or in a blender, then place them in a

clean glass jar; do not pack them tightly or the alcohol will not be

able to saturate them. Cover herbs with just enough vodka so that they

are completely submerged and can slosh around a little. (Vodka contains

only alcohol and water. One hundred proof vodka is preferable, but 80

proof vodka will do: the former is 50% alcohol and 50% water; the latter

is 40% alcohol and 60% water.) If there seems to be too much or not

enough vodka, adjust the amounts as necessary. Put a tight lid on the

jar and store for 2 weeks at room temperature. A dark shelf is fine,

since tincture does not need light to process. Shake the contents once

or twice a day to redistribute the herbs in the alcohol. If you are

using powdered herbs, stir them with a spoon every day. After 2 weeks,

strain the herb pulp through a coffee filter or fine kitchen strainer.

Stored in a cool place, a tincture can last 6 years or longer.