So you've made Elderberry Syrup and now you have this pile of Elderberry mush (possibly some other herbs) We'll call it the berries from here on...You could compost them, you could feed them to the birds OR you could make MORE MEDICINE!
How cool is that!?!?
If you've never made a tincture before . . . or even heard the word, don't be shy! (you can read about them here) This is the perfect introduction to making a tincture. Even more exciting...you will be making an Elixir. Essentially a tincture with honey. (or maple syrup)
MATERIALS
- Elderberry mush that remains after you made some delicious Elderberry Syrup!
- A jar that holds the entire mixture of berries OR you could split it into a few different jars depending on what you have on hand
- 40% Brandy (I use St. Remy VSOP Brandy..it's affordable)
- Raw, liquid honey sourced locally (not a must but I prefer it) OR locally produced maple syrup
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place the berries in a jar
2. Fill jar to top with Brandy and secure lid
3. Label jar with date and ingredients used
4. Allow mixture to macerate for 6-8 weeks (can go as long as you want it to)
5. Store in a cool, dark, dry place.
6. Shake the jar multiple times a week. This can be fun...do a dance, sing a song, place it under the full moon, give it all the best intentions...this is your medicine!
TIME TO STRAIN
7. After 6-8 weeks your Elderberry tincture is ready to be strained.
- Strain using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
8. For each cup (250mL) add 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup .. YUM
9. Mix well
10. Bottle (the best tincture bottles) Any jar is okay.
11. Label your bottle with the ingredients used and the date you infused along with the date you strained. (It's good practice) Medicine makers always say they will remember what's inside their infusion but let's face it. We forget.
12. Store in a cool, dark, dry place.
- Shake before using
HOW TO USE
Adults: When ill or at the sudden onset of illness: 2 droppers 3 times per day (2 droppers is about 1 teaspoon)
When healthy but surrounded in people who are sick or about to go somewhere that may have sick people (work, airplane) : 2 droppers 1 time per day
Kids: Half the adult dosage. When ill or at the sudden onset of illness: 1 dropper 3 times per day (1 droppers is about 1/2 teaspoon)
When healthy but surrounded in people who are sick or about to go somewhere that may have sick people (classroom) : 1 dropper. 1 time per day
I like to add my Elderberry Elixir to smoothies, oatmeal or tea!
If you’re pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have any health concerns or questions, please consult a qualified health care provider before using herbal home remedies such as this one.
Hello!
For the elderberry elixir do you have to use brandy or can it be vodka