Forums HomeGrown Herbalist Student Forum Herbal Medicine Making How long can herbs sit in vodka?

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    • #20060
      Darlene Norris
      Student

        I keep forgetting about my tinctures! I know you’re supposed to shake them up every day, but I stick them in the cupboard, and out of sight, out of mind! I usually strain them out when I need to use them. But sometimes I’m in a hurry, and I just grab a spoonful anyway. Does it hurt anything to leave them in the vodka longer than two weeks? I’m not dead yet, so I guess they don’t get toxic as they sit there. Thanks for any input!

      • #20118
        Marjorie
        Student

          Nope. In one of the modules (maybe the Medicine Making one?) Doc Jones mentions that the Chinese herbalists don’t strain their tinctures at all. I’ve had tinctures that I let go unstrained for years with no issues, for the same reasons you do.

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          • #20467
            Dr. Patrick Jones
            Homestead Instructor

              Yup. You can leave them in there forever. I strain mine when I need the bottle for something else. That works well. :0)

              Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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          • #20210
            Darlene Norris
            Student
            Topic Author

              Thanks, Marjorie! That’s good to know! I’m just getting started, so I haven’t gotten too far yet. I appreciate your response!

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