Double extraction tincture of usnea

[janet grenleskiStudent]

I have made two previous tinctures of usnea foraged over the winter, but recently learned about the double extraction method for using usnea as an antibiotic. I started a new tincture yesterday, and after that has ‘brewed’ for six weeks I will begin the second part of the extraction process in my crock pot. Has anyone here done this before?

[janet grenleskiStudentTopic Author]

Me again. Wondering if the alcohol extraction I made with usnea is useless without the second hot water extraction, or if it still can be used? I understand the second extraction is for pulling polyglycerides fron the plant, but would the first extraction have uses without it?

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

I think a regular alcohol tincture of Usnea is just fine. Herbalists love to overcomplicate medicine making. It makes for exciting blog articles. :0)

Polyglycerides typically have very low water solubility (they’re hydrophobic) so they’ll extract much better in an alcohol than in water. So a second “water extraction” seems pretty pointless chemically.

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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Helen Jonas, Lenka

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