Re: Tinctures

[AlchemyAcres]

Propolis tincture (from the beehive) is one of my favorite tinctures.
I learned about it 20-some years ago from one of my American Indian friends.
Stops cold sores and such almost immediately.


~Martin

[sprite]

I started taking herbal classes from a 30 year practicing herblist and the best vodka to use is 110 proof.

So what about the bee tincture! Do tell more.....please

[Babs]

Hello =)

This year I am moving from using dried plants to making tinctures. I have read more information then my eyes and brain and take in right now..lol

I do have a question that seems to vary. It is about the vodka used. Some of what I read (here and other sites) say use 100 proof, some say 80 proof. I have 80 proof and 198...yes I meant to say 198 proof available here. My question is which would be better? If I get the 198 proof, can I add half water to bring the proof down to closer to 100 proof and not effect the tincture potency?

What will the potency of the tincture be if I use the 80 proof vs 100 proof or even the 198 proof?

I also understand I can use the dried herbs but use less then fresh. I can still get the fresh as of right now. Which would be more beneficial to use..dried or fresh?

Thanks all. I have found this site more then usefull! :)

Babs

[bookwormom]

as soon as I have enough propolis it will be made into tincture.
Our pharmacist at home makes a propolis salve, of course would not part with his recipe.
Is it okay to mention moonshine on this place?
As far as I understand, it is okay to have higher potency alcohol, it won't hurt anything. I am not familiar with the "proof" thing, how much is that in percent? I have used as low as 38% ( for swedish bitters) and it was okay.
I guess it is not okay to make your own for medicinal purposes?

[Babs]

I perhaps should of made it clear it is not Moonshine ;). Tho we do brew our own beer, soda and wine, we stay away from the moonshine.

I am refering to Everclear, it is 100% pure grain alcohol. They sell it in the nearest store to me (about a hour drive) and it is either that, or the 40-45% (80 proof) alcohol. Both are vodka, one is just a wee bit stronger. It has a warning on the lable that human consuption should be used with great caution. Well with it being strong enough to knock you out flat just from the smell, it should have that kind of warning..lol