Herbal Tinctures
Tinctures are essentially liquid extracts of herbs. They are so effective because they create a potent and easily absorbed concentrations of the herbs cured in alcohol, glycerin or apple cider vinegar for anywhere from 6 weeks to half a year. Tinctures date back to the earliest medicinal herbal efforts. They offer high concentrations in small doses and when dropped under the tongue, enter the bloodstream very efficiently, meaning the action in the body is faster than with ingestion or tea extraction. Some herbal tinctures can take action very quickly, such as herbs for relaxation, while others which are more nutritive and building in nature must be taken regularly to build up adequate effects in the body.
Rosemary Health Benefits
- Anti-Oxidant: Rosemary prevents damage caused by oxidative stress that occurs in conjunction with many diseases. The brain in particular is subject to oxidative stress, as seen in conditions such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in rosemary, such as the carnosic and rosmarinic acids, are highly effective in combatting this kind of oxidation. (1)
- Anti-Bacterial: Rosemary holds anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Rosemary has the ability ability to eliminate several harmful forms of bacteria while leaving helpful bacteria undamaged. (2)
- Anti-Carcinogenic: Rosemary is a potent anti-carcinogenic. One study conducted on rats. showed that rosemary, when administered in a powdered format, prevented the effects of carcinogens by 76% and decreased the incidence of tumors in mammary glands. In addition, by reducing the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, the herb also decreases the chances of developing skin cancer. (3)
- Memory Booster: Rosemary has long been considered a memory booster. Recent advances in the science surrounding the herb have shown that it inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine, which is a compound that plays a role in sections of the brain responsible for memory and reasoning. Rosemary may also promote memory function by increasing blood flow to the brain. (4)
Rosemary Tincture Recipe
Ingredients
(1 handful of rosemary branch/ 1/2 cup per cup liquid)
- Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (pictures above) or high proof Alcohol such as vodka or brandy
- Organic, Fresh Rosemary
- Sterilised jars
Recipe
Remove rosemary from branches, chop and place inside sterilized jars and pour liquid over herb and seal from six weeks to one year. Strain rosemary leaves when infused to your liking (you need a minimum of six weeks for the herbs to properly infuse) and take a few drops under the tongue when sick or in need of immune boosting. Herbs are not to be taken lightly, use only when necessary as with antibiotics.
Store in cool, dark place. And remember that the tincture expiration date for vinegar and vodka is much shorter than alcohol tinctures, lasting around one year.