Folk-Method Tinctures
Description:
The folk method uses no measurements except sizing things up with your eyeballs. The folk method will inherently produce variable results in terms of ratios and strength, but you can keep track of how much herb and liquid you are using so that you will at least be consistent in your results when re-making tinctures over time.
Ingredients:
Jar; Herbs (amount of herbs needed is dependent on the size of the jar and wether herbs are dried or fresh); Alcohol (Brandy is a favorite)
Directions:
Fill a clear jar 1/2 way with dried or 3/4 way with fresh, chopped herbs. Cover completely with alcohol, plus an inch or two more. Check the level the next day to add more alcohol to cover the herbs by about an inch or so. Hot water may be added to dried roots to rehydrate them before adding the alcohol. Macerate (steep) in a warm windowsill for 1-4 weeks, shaking daily to energize your mixture. Strain thru a cheesecloth. Compost herbs. Bottle in dark bottle.