Elderflowers, also known as Sambucus Nigra, are a beautiful and fragrant blossom that can be found all over the world. They are known for their health benefits and can be used for medicinal purposes. One of the best ways to preserve elderflowers and their health benefits is by making a tincture.
A tincture is a concentrated form of an herb or plant, using alcohol to extract the medicinal properties. Elderflower tincture can be used to help with colds, flu, sinus relief, allergies, and even as a natural pain reliever. In this article, we will discuss how to make elderflower tincture and the benefits it has for preppers and non-preppers alike.
Harvesting and Preparing the Elderflowers
The first step in making elderflower tincture is to gather fresh elderflowers. The best time to harvest elderflowers is in the early morning when the dew has dried. Find elderflowers that have not been sprayed with pesticides or other chemicals. It’s essential to identify the right flower since some flowers can look similar but are not elderflowers. You can consult a plant identification book to make sure you have the right plant.
Once you have gathered the elderflowers, remove any leaves and stems. Rinse them lightly with cold water to remove any unwanted debris. Place the flowers on a clean towel and let them air dry. It’s important to make sure that the flowers are dry to avoid any mold development.
Making the Elderflower Tincture
Once the elderflowers are gathered and prepared, it’s time to make the tincture. You will need about one cup of elderflowers and one cup of alcohol. The alcohol used should be a high-proof pure grain alcohol, such as Everclear, which is 95% alcohol.
Place the elderflowers into a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the alcohol into the jar until it covers the elderflowers. Seal the jar tightly and give it a good shake.
Place the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Give the jar a shake every day to help the extraction process. After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture using cheesecloth, making sure to squeeze out all the liquid from the flowers. Transfer the liquid to a dark glass bottle or jar, and it’s now ready to use.
The Benefits of Elderflower Tincture
Elderflower tincture has many benefits, making it a must-have for preppers and non-preppers alike. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Cold and Flu Relief
Elderflower tincture is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties, making it an excellent remedy for cold and flu relief. It can help alleviate symptoms such as fever, headaches, and congestion.
2. Sinus Relief
Elderflower tincture can also help alleviate sinus issues such as inflammation and congestion. It can also help with allergies and asthma symptoms.
3. Natural Pain Reliever
Elderflower tincture has natural pain-relieving properties. It can be used to help with headaches, joint pain, and menstrual cramps.
4. Immune System Booster
Elderflower tincture is rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that help boost the immune system. It can also help prevent cell damage and reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
Conclusion
Elderflower tincture is easy to make and has many health benefits. It’s a must-have for any prepper or non-prepper who wants to prepare for future health issues that may arise. It’s important to consult a medical professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have an existing health issue or are taking medication. With the right preparation, you can harvest and make elderflower tincture and reap its many benefits.
