Today, I am going to show you how to make an herbal extract using vodka. There are 2 main reasons to use alcohol for an extract (as opposed to vegetable glycerine): 1. Alcohol draws the most "goodness" out of the herb; 2. Alcohol extracts have a long shelf life (up to 2 years!).
Although most people wouldn't give a full-strength alcohol extract to their children, this extract can be mixed with a glycerite (glycerine extract) to extend its shelf life and potency. If mixed with a hot beverage, most of the alcohol will evaporate. I will be covering glycerites in the next post!
To make an herbal extract, you will need alcohol (either vodka or rum)- I use a fairly cheap vodka, as I am not a connoisseur! Any vodka will do. You will also need a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and your herbs. Today, I am using a pre-mixed Immune Booster from The Bulk Herb Store, to which I have added some elderberries.
First, you need to fill your glass jar about 1/3-1/2 full of your herbs. Just eye it- it doesn't have to be too precise! At this point, you can soak your herbs with hot water to get them started. Use just enough water to wet the herbs, but don't drown them!
Next, fill the jar to within about a inch from the top with your alcohol. There may be some trapped air at the bottom, so stir the herbs and add more alcohol, if necessary.
When the alcohol is in the glass, attach the lid tightly and give it a good shake. Then, store your jar in a dark, cool place (such as a cabinet) for about three weeks. Be sure to shake the jar about once a day to keep the herbs circulating. When the three weeks is up, strain your extract into a clean jar (I use an old tee shirt to squeeze out any remaining liquid from herbs). Label extract and store in a dark place for up to 2 years!
This post is part of Monday Mania at the Healthy Home Economist
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