Best way to tincture roots?

[JenniferStudent]

Hi I was wondering is it better to dehydrate the roots of parsley or burdock before tincturing them in vodka or does it matter if you tincture the plant material after letting them air  dry out for a few hours? Thanks!

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Dawn DelVecchio, Karen Maxon, Sydnia Ginger Anady, Kelly Benjamin

[Ruth BecklerStudent]

Drying the roots ensures you are not adding extra water to your tincture and diluting it. Extra water can reduce the effectiveness and the shelf life.

2 users thanked author for this post.

Dawn DelVecchio, Kelly Benjamin

[Sno White-BensonStudent]

I have chopped fresh roots into small pieces, dried them completely, then used them to create a tincture. If I dry whole roots they can become hard as stone to chop, but if I use fresh roots to create tinctures I will use Everclear to compensate for the water content of the roots.

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Amanda Necaise

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

I typically dry stuff before tincturing. It isn’t necessary for everything but it saves me having to think and decide…both of which can be exhausting. :0)

Also, if you’re drying roots, be sure to chop them up before you dry them. Trying to chop the once they’re dry is REALLY exhausting.

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

• This reply was modified 1 year, 5 months ago by Dr. Patrick Jones.

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