Herbal Tinctures

I'm pretty sure that many of my friends think I'm from another planet, or a freak of nature, and no doubt they think I'm just plain weird.  It's because I don't quite think like most people, I guess.  I've never been satisfied with following "the norm".  Not because I WANT to be different than everybody, but because the way I see it, "the norm" is not necessarily the best option.  I think it's important to continuously examine and learn about the things we put on and in our bodies.

I'm an avid learner, and I recently began learning about herbal remedies.  A friend started doing herbal classes in her home and I've been making my own tinctures in my kitchen.  It's very easy, and surprisingly inexpensive.  

What is a tincture?  Most people are accustomed to making tea from herbs, and there are tremendous health benefits that can be derived from various herbs.  But sometimes we need a more potent form than what we would get from drinking it as a tea.  That's where tinctures come in.  The herbs are placed in a medium (apple cider vinegar, glycerin, or alcohol), and all the potent and beneficial elements are extracted from the herb over a period of 4-6 weeks.  They are then taken in very small doses (usually 2-3 droppers full).

For example, the first herbal tincture I ever made was for nourishing the endocrine system.  This particular blend came already mixed and includes: wild yam, sarsaparilla, black & blue cohosh, false unicorn, dong quai, sage, licorice and dandelion.  Each of these herbs contains properties that nourish the endocrine system (which is primarily your hormones).

To make this particular tincture, you simply fill a glass jar half full with the herb blend, and cover completely with vodka or apple cider vinegar (I used the vinegar because of the added nutrients).  Cover with plastic wrap and a lid.  Shake daily for 2 weeks.  Strain, and put in a bottle with a dropper.  Take 2-3 droppers in the morning and the evening.  

Herbs take some time to accumulate in your system, so it may take a few weeks or even a couple of months before you begin to notice a difference.  This tincture can also be given to children who have reached puberty at half the adult dosage.  And the endocrine tincture is not just for women!  Men need it, too!

I got my endocrine blend from Southwest Herb, located in Mesa, Arizona.  

I'm not an expert herbalist, but I'm thrilled to share with you the things I'm learning.  One of the greatest companies for herbs is Mountain Rose Herbs, located in Eugene, Oregon.  Their herbs are inexpensive, and you might be inspired just by browsing through their website.