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     I have had several people call lately with the same problem, needing a large amount of a single herb extract, but feeling it was too expensive to buy so many bottles of 4 oz. extract.

     The first customer needed a large amount of Western Botanicals Garlic extract. I always suggest making it yourself when you need that much. She bought two 4 ounce bottles to get her through until her batch would be ready. I told her I would use fresh garlic with 100 proof Vodka. She called a few weeks later to say that she was not able to make it due to health reasons, and asked how can she get half a gallon from us for a reasonable price. She was hoping for two 32 ounce bottles, and I had to explain that they are too heavy for shipping.  I was able to get very good pricing for her on 16 oz. bottles and she was thrilled!

     The second customer needed a large amount of a single extract as well. When I asked if he was interested in making it himself, he asked how. I emailed him the instructions and he emailed back saying, “I wish someone had told me this ten years ago!” I’m happy to help people save money when I can. I know how hard it is when you need to get the money to stretch!

     I suggest for people to make their own extract when they are going through a lot of it. Most often they don’t want to, which works too, because we need the orders! We are here for you if you have a special need, just let us know and we’ll try to help you with it!

     This week I am making a batch of Elderberry extract. Elderberry extract is very popular this time of year. In a google search it states: “Elderberry extract binds to the tiny spikes on a virus protein that are used to pierce and invade healthy cells and destroys them so that the virus is ineffective.” That’s what we have going on right now, lots of virus’ making people sick. This simple single herb extract is one I have been taking daily and so far I have avoided getting what has been going around.

     The best price we have is for Dr. Christopher’s Elderberry Extract, 2 oz. bottle for $14.44. The directions are to take 3 droppersful three times a day or as directed by your health care professional. Because I’m not sick I’m just taking a dropperful once a day. If I had been exposed to sick people or could feel something coming on I would up it to the recommended dosage listed on the bottle. Happily so far so good, I'm staying healthy!

     Pictured above right is 16 oz. Western Botanicals bulk Elderberry and a bottle of Vodka, I use 80 proof for dried herbs and the 100 proof if the herbs are fresh. I poured the dried  Elderberries and the bottle of vodka into the one gallon jar, added the rest of a bottle of Vodka that I had bringing it up to about 64 oz of Vodka. The liquid immediately turned purple. I’m shaking it up about three times a day and it will be ready in about two weeks. Extracts last many years when stored in a cool dark place, so we’ll have this to use for quite a few years! Below are the complete instructions for making an extract.

    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.

     We sell these and other great healing herbal formulas and essential oils at Herbs First. Free shipping in the United States on your $75.00 order! Order online or phone in your order at 801-228-1901. Email me and I can send you links to help you learn more about what you need to know!

Wishing you the best as you strive to care of your family!
Kathryn