Firstly let's talk about the standard / usual dose for herbal tinctures. The usual dose for a herbal preparation tincture is 5ml three times a day (for adults). Can be taken in juice to disguise the taste!
The basic recipe for a herbal tincture uses either a ratio of 1 part dried herbs to 5 parts vodka, or 1 part fresh herbs to 3 parts vodka. (Some herbalists use a ratio of 1 part dried herb to 4 parts vodka, but that is a matter of personal choice, and trial and error when you make your preparations)
HINT: if you do not want to use alcohol as the base for your tincture, you can use apple cider vinegar instead at the same ratio as you would use vodka. (you can also use glycerin but the ratios and preparation steps will be slightly different)
The basic recipe for a herbal tincture uses either a ratio of 1 part dried herbs to 5 parts vodka, or 1 part fresh herbs to 3 parts vodka. (Some herbalists use a ratio of 1 part dried herb to 4 parts vodka, but that is a matter of personal choice, and trial and error when you make your preparations)
- Chop up the herbs finely and place them in a large sterilised jar (a Mason jar with a fitted lid is perfect!)
- Add the vodka to the herbs and make sure the vegetation is completely covered with the alcohol
- place the lid on the jar, and make sure it is securely tightened (otherwise you may be covered in the preparation at the next step ;) )
- Shake the jar lightly to mix the herbs and alcohol
- then store for two weeks in a dark cool place
- Shake the jar once or twice a day to keep the herbs mixed through the vodka
- After the two weeks are up, strain the mixture through clean muslin cloth, and squeeze all the herbs so that you get all the infused alcohol!
- Use a funnel (to help you pour it into containers without too much mess) and pour into sterilised dark glass bottles
- Make sure you label these bottles with what the tincture is, the ingredients, the dosage, the date it was bottled, its best before date, and the storage instructions
- A tincture made like this and stored properly can last to five years
HINT: if you do not want to use alcohol as the base for your tincture, you can use apple cider vinegar instead at the same ratio as you would use vodka. (you can also use glycerin but the ratios and preparation steps will be slightly different)