Ameriški slamnik tinktura

Customer question:

What process is used to make the tincture from American straw? Anonymous customer's question

Pharmacist's answer:

The tincture of American strawflower is usually made through a process called maceration, which involves soaking the plant material in a solvent, usually alcohol, to extract its beneficial compounds.

Here is a simplified overview of how a tincture is usually prepared:

Ingredients and accessories:

• fresh or dried plant material of the plant (roots, leaves, and flowers)
• alcohol, usually ethanol or even vodka
• glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• gauze or fine mesh strainer
• dark storage bottle

Procedure:

• Prepare the plant material: depending on the specific tincture you want to make (from roots, leaves, or flowers), ensure that the plant material is clean and dried if using dried herbs or freshly picked if you use fresh herbs.

• Weigh the ingredients: determine the plant material you intend to use and prepare the appropriate amount of alcohol.

• Combine the plant material and alcohol: place it in a glass jar and cover it with alcohol. Make sure the plant material is completely submerged.

• Close the jar: close the glass jar with a tight-fitting lid to prevent evaporation and possible contamination.

• Macerate: let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for several weeks, usually about 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the alcohol will extract the active compounds from the plant material. Shake the jar gently every few days to speed up a thorough extraction.

• Strain the macerate: after the maceration is finished, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean container, separating the liquid (tincture) from the solid plant material. Squeeze the plant material to extract as much liquid as possible.

• Storage: pour the strained tincture into a dark bottle and seal with a tight-fitting cap. Store it in a calm and dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Can we consume American straw in the form of a tincture?

Yes, Echinacea or Echinacea purpurea is commonly consumed in tincture form. Tinctures are widely available and are a convenient way to take this herbal supplement. It is essential to choose a high-quality tincture from a reputable source, as the quality and concentrations of active compounds can vary between products. If you have particular health problems or are taking medication, it is a good idea to consult your doctor before using the prepared tincture.

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