Tuesday, February 3, 2015

How to make an Herbal Extract


    I have been waiting for this sale because I was out of just about everything that I add to my morning green drink!! I have found that to be an easy way to take the herbs if they are mild tasting.

    I also like to make an alcohol extract out of many of the herbs that we use, which preserves them pretty much indefinitely if stored correctly.

How to make an Alcohol Extract

    Herbal Preparations and Natural Therapies, Debra Nuzzi St. Claire recommends using 100 proof vodka, which is readily available and is equal to the required solution of 50 percent alcohol and 50 percent water. Use four ounces of herb to one pint of alcohol. The herb should be finely cut or powdered, placed in a clean glass jar. 

    After pouring the alcohol over the herb, the jar is tightly covered. Shake the jar for a minute or two each day. At the end of two weeks, strain the tincture through cheesecloth, a jelly bag, or a coffee filter. If you happen to have a wine press, you could use that. "It is best to put up one's tincture on the new moon and strain it off on the full moon so that the drawing power of the waxing moon will help extract the herbal properties". Store herbal tinctures in dark glass bottles away from heat and light.

    At Herbs First we have bulk herbs from Acai to Yucca root and almost everything in between.  Ordering online is very safe on our secure server, or you can phone in your order. 801-228-1901.

Have a great month!
Kathryn

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