Adhesive label or masking tape (for labelling tincture)
Ingredients
Marshmallow RootDried or Fresh
Neutral Spiritsuch as vodka*
Instructions
Begin by filling a clean mason jar about halfway (1/2) full with dried marshmallow root. Fresh marshmallow root is harder to work with for tinctures, so dried root is generally preferred and can be found at herbal supply shops.
Pour your chosen alcohol over the dried marshmallow root, ensuring the roots are fully submerged. You can use vodka, brandy, rum, or any other high-proof alcohol (at least 60 proof or higher). This will effectively extract the beneficial compounds from the root.
Securely close the jar with a lid and give it a gentle shake to mix the alcohol and the plant material. Place the jar in a cool, dark area, away from sunlight. Let the tincture infuse for 6 to 8 weeks.
Every few days, give the jar a gentle shake to help the extraction process. Keep an eye on the alcohol level, topping it up if necessary to ensure the marshmallow root stays submerged throughout the infusion period.
After 6 to 8 weeks, it’s time to strain your tincture. Line a funnel with cheesecloth and position it over a dark glass bottle. Pour the tincture through the cheesecloth, pressing the plant material to extract as much liquid as possible.
Once the tincture is strained, transfer it to a clean, dark-colored glass bottle and label it with the plant name, date of preparation, recommended dosage, and any relevant usage instructions. Store the tincture in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Notes
Choosing Alcohol: While vodka is the most common choice for tinctures due to its neutral flavor, you can also use other spirits like brandy or rum. Be sure to use alcohol that’s at least 60 proof (30% alcohol) to ensure proper extraction and preservation of the tincture.What Not to Use: Never use denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol for tinctures, as they are not safe for consumption.Expected Yield: The yield will vary depending on whether you use dried or fresh marshmallow root. Dried roots will absorb some of the alcohol, so you may end up with slightly less tincture than the alcohol you originally added. For a quart jar, you’ll need approximately 2 to 3 cups of alcohol, or 1 to 1.5 cups for a pint jar. Make sure the root material stays fully submerged throughout the extraction period to avoid mold and ensure the best results.Alcohol-Free Glycerite Option: If you prefer an alcohol-free option, you can create a glycerite tincture. Simply cover the dried marshmallow root with a mixture of 3 parts vegetable glycerin to 1 part distilled water. If you’re using fresh marshmallow root (less common for tinctures), use all glycerin and skip the water. Shake the jar daily to help with the extraction process, then strain and bottle it in the same way you would with an alcohol-based tincture.