Begin by filling a clean mason jar about 1/3 to 1/2 full with either fresh or dried elderberries.

Pour enough alcohol over the elderberries to fully submerge them, ensuring that the berries are completely covered.

Tighten the lid securely on the jar and give it a gentle shake. Store the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct light and let the mixture steep for 6 to 8 weeks.

Shake the jar lightly every few days if using alcohol. If making a glycerite tincture, shake it daily to help with the extraction. If you notice that the alcohol level is getting low, add more to ensure the elderberries remain covered.

When the tincture has fully infused, set up a funnel lined with cheesecloth over a dark amber glass bottle. Carefully pour the elderberry mixture into the funnel, pressing gently on the herbs to extract all of the liquid into the bottle.

Label the bottle with details like the contents, the date it was made, suggested dosages, and possible uses. Store the finished tincture in a cool, dark place, away from light, to maintain its potency.