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Elderberry Tincture

A rich and flavorful tincture made from dried elderberries and warming herbs, ideal for a cozy herbal remedy.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 days
Servings: 24 tablespoon-size portions
Course: Beverage, Herbal Remedy
Cuisine: Herbal, Natural
Calories: 40

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup dried elderberries Buy from a trusted source for best quality.
  • 2 cups vodka or other high-proof alcohol Choose clean, neutral vodka at 80 proof or higher.
  • 2 sticks cinnamon Broken in half if needed for jar fitting.
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves Adds spicy depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root Or use 1 teaspoon dried ginger, sliced or chopped thinly.
  • 1 tablespoon dried orange peel Provides brightness.
  • to taste raw honey or maple syrup Optional for sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set out every ingredient on the counter and measure each one. Ensure berries and herbs are clean and fresh.
  2. If using fresh ginger, slice it thinly; if using dried ginger, measure it out.
Infusing
  1. Add the elderberries to your clean glass jar first, followed by the cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and orange peel.
  2. Pour the vodka over the herbs until everything is covered, leaving headspace at the top.
  3. Seal the jar tightly, shake gently, and label with the start date.
  4. Store in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking every few days.
Straining and Bottling
  1. After 4 to 6 weeks, strain the tincture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl.
  2. Use a funnel to transfer the strained liquid into a clean glass bottle.
  3. Taste and sweeten with raw honey or maple syrup if desired.
Storage
  1. Seal the bottle and store in a cool, dark location, labeling it with the date it was bottled.

Notes

Use quality dried elderberries for better flavor. Always use clean glass for jars and bottles to maintain tincture purity.