Thursday, February 17, 2011

How To Make Flower Remedies and Herbal Tinctures

Oh wish that was me, enjoying the hammock in the summer sun!

Today I am going to share making flower remedies and herbal tinctures.

Tinctures can be stored for a ling time, making them the perfect way to harness the restorative power of flowers and herbs......

~Peace~



How To Make Flower Remedies and Herbal Tinctures




Tinctures are made by steeping fresh or dried herbs in pure alcohol. The plants' active constituents are dissolved in the alcohol, which acts as an excellent preservatives.

Herbal tinctures are stronger than infusions and decoctions. They are a convenient way to administer herbal remedies over extended periods of time, especially when traveling . It's standard to make a tincture from a single herb and to blend tincture from a single herb and to blend tinctures from your herbal medicine cabinet as required. They have a shelf life of up to two years, so it is well worth preparing your own homemade tinctures.

Flower remedies are a form of homeopathic tincture. They are a subtle treatment that captures the essential qualities of flowers or herbs by infusing them in water. Flower remedies are effective for treating the emotional imbalances that underlie many illnesses, and they are also a good way to raise your energy levels.



Some Ideal herbs And Flowers For Tinctures And Remedies



Marigold~
  • Helps to lessen negativity

  • Calms digestive inflammation

  • Increases generosity

  • Soothes and heals acne



St. John's Wort~
  • Soothes anxiety

  • Calms pre-menstrual tension

  • Increases laughter and relaxation


Red Chestnut~
  • Reduces anxiety and depression

  • Prevents over-protection of family and friends

  • Improves positive thinking and self-esteem




Willow~
  • Rheumatism and arthritis~

  • Despondency an despair

  • Neuralgia and headaches

  • Puts your troubles into perspective



Dong Quai~
  • Builds healthy blood

  • Restores energy levels

  • Strengthens the uterus

  • Stimulates the appetite



Ginger~
  • Promotes digestion

  • Eases stomach upsets

  • Expectorant for coughs and colds


Ginkgo~
  • Improves memory

  • Improves mental function

  • Helps circulatory problems

  • Eases hemorrhoids


Raspberry~
  • For wounds and inflammations

  • Ulcers and gum inflammations

  • Menstrual cramps




Oak~
  • Has restorative effects

  • Reinforces strength and endurance




Pine~
  • Reduces feelings of self-blame

  • Reduces guilt

  • Helps to improve self-awareness


How To Make Your Flower Remedies And Tinctures





Making A Tincture

1. Chop 3 cups of fresh herbs (or, if you prefer 2 cups of dried herbs). Place them in a large glass jar

2. Pour one quart of pure alcohol (vodka or rum) over the herbs. Screw the lid on the jar and shake we to ensure that the herbs are fully submerged.

3. Keep in a cool dark place for 10-14 days. Shake the jar for one minute each day.

4. Strain the mixture through a muslin or linen cloth. Discard the herbs and pour the liquid into sterilized screw top glass bottles.

5. Label the bottles with the date and the name of the herb.


To Make St. John's Wort Tincture~

1. Collect 2 1/2 cups of the flowering heads of St. John's Wort. Place the flower heads containing the buds, flowers and leaves in the alcohol as in the recipes.

2. Take 1 tsp of the tincture, diluted in water or fruit juice, three times a day to combat anxiety and tension headaches.


Making A Remedy

1. Place 1/2 cup of freshly picked whole flower heads in a shallow glass or earthen ware bowl.

2. Add approximately 1 cup of pure spring water. Make sure that all the flowers are fully submerged and cover with a muslin cloth.

3. Place the bowl in a sunny spot for one day. This can be a sheltered spot in the garden or on a sunny windowsill.

4. In the evening, remove the flower heads and measure the remaining liquid.

5. Add an equal amount of pure alcohol (vodka or rum) and pour the remedy into sterilized bottles.


Marigold Remedy~

1. Submerge 5-6 freshly picked marigold flower heads in spring water as described in the flower remedy recipe.

2. It's best to grow your own marigolds but, if you are purchasing them, you should ensure that the flowers are organic.

3. Apply 4-5 drops of the essence under your tongue 4 times a day to restore a positive frame of mind.





2 comments:

Misty said...

Sorry it has taken me a while but THANK YOU for adding my button to your blog! I feel very special :) I've added your button to my left sidebar on my home page so everyone can find it!

Thanks Bunches, Misty
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Deborah Ann said...

Wow, you are so knowledgable in so many areas!

I'm a hippie at heart too. So nice to meet a kindred spirit...