Making tinctures from fresh or dried herb

[ComfreyStudent]

I’m still rather new to tincture making, so I’d like to here your thoughts on whether fresh or dried herbs are best for tinctures. Or does it depend on which herb you are using? I’ve had good results with dried herbs for several tinctures, and the fresh black walnut hull tincture appears good.

However, last spring I tried my hand at fresh shepherds purse tincture, and ended up with a stinky mess. Of course, to fit more in the jar I put the plant and the vodka through the vita-mix. Maybe the plant had too much moisture? Anyway, I’d still like to make shepherd’s purse tincture for the first aid kit come this spring. I’d just like to do it right this time.

Also, I’m interested in an answer to the question for other tinctures as well. So– what has been your experiences?

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

I’ve done both.

Shepherd’s purse is much better if plants are used. use a 1 to 1 ratio of fresh plant to booze. If you put too much fresh plant in a tincture the water in the plant will dilute the alcohol. Alcohol has to be above 25% to preserve.

Patrick

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

[IdahoHerbalist]

James Green has a great book that describes lots of medicine making including tinctures.

The herbal medicine makers handbook

When I make a tincture I start by observing the dry herb. If it is light and fluffy I start at a 1:4 ratio. That is 1 gram of herb to 4 mL of alcohol. If it looks like oatmeal after the first go I add another part of alcohol.

After doing a few you you will get a feel for it.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

IdahoHerbalist wrote:
After doing a few you you will get a feel for it.

Or I could keep a notebook and write stuff down when it works out….nah…that’d take all the challenge out of it every year. :LOL:

Patrick

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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