Elderberry is one of the most researched traditional remedies — rich in anthocyanins that support immune function, especially during cold and flu season. A tincture extracts both water- and alcohol-soluble compounds and keeps for years without refrigeration.
What You Need
- 1 cup dried elderberries (Sambucus nigra) — never raw elderberries
- 2 cups menstruum: 80-proof vodka for a standard tincture, OR 1 part apple cider vinegar + 1 part raw honey for an alcohol-free version
Method
- Fill a glass jar with dried elderberries — about halfway full.
- Pour your menstruum (vodka or ACV-honey mix) over to completely cover. Leave 1 inch headspace.
- Cap tightly. Label with the herb name, menstruum, and date.
- Store in a cool, dark place. Shake daily.
- Macerate (steep) for 4–6 weeks minimum. The longer the steeper, the more potent.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth. Squeeze every drop from the marc (plant material).
- Bottle in dark glass dropper bottles. Label.
- Dosage: 30–60 drops (1–2 ml) up to 4 times daily during illness, or 30 drops daily for prevention.
Tips & Notes
- Raw elderberries contain a compound that causes nausea. Dried elderberries are safe as the compound is deactivated during drying.
- The ACV-honey version (called an oxymel) is gentler, safe for children, and tastes better.
- Properly stored alcohol tinctures last 5+ years.
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