Tinctures: vinegar and glycerin.

Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 09:10:41 -0400
Sender: HERB.TREARNPC.EGE.EDU.TR
From: Jose Garcia <jgarcia.EPIX.NET>
Subject: chinese dizziness plant

>second question I would like another way beside vodka to make tinctures in a non-alcoholic manner I have a friend that is a recovering alcoholic

Linn,
Vinegar and glycerin are two substitutes for alcohol as a tincture menstruum. Vinegar does not dissolve plant constituents as well as alcohol, but is tolerable by most people ... including alcoholics and helps regulate the acid/alkaline balance in our bodies. Vinegar tinctures are reported to have a shelf life of 2-3 years if stored in a cool, dark place although some authors state that they deteriorate in 6 months. Vinegar extracts sugars, tannins, vitamins, some minerals, glycosides, and bitter compounds. Warm the vinegar first, before using, to facilitate release of plant constituents.

Glycerin is diluted 1:4 with water to make tinctures. It is good for the mucus membrane linings in our bodies. Although glycerine will dissolve sugars, enzymes, glucosides, bitter compounds, saponins, and tannins; it will not dissolve resinous or oily components, alkaloids or salts. Glycerin is sweet which makes it a good menstruum to use when making tinctures for children. Purchase only 100% vegetable glycerin for your tincture making.