< previous page | page_51 | next page >
Page 51
| pared to alcohol extracts. Glycerin extracts prepared by placing the herb in alcohol first are going to yield higher concentrations of plant constituents. Another way to prepare a glycerin extract is to first make a tea by gently boiling the cut up or powdered roots for approximately 10 to 15 minutes; then add an equal or slightly greater amount of glycerin to the fluid and store in the refrigerator. Although the shelf life will not be as long as for an alcohol extract or a simple glycerin maceration, it will make a more potent medicine than the simple macerate. Flavors can be added by using herbal essential oils such as peppermint or lemon, or a concentrate of cherry or black cherry. Store in amber bottles away from heat and sunlight to maintain maximum shelf life. Label and date. |
| Making Your Own Salve |
| Add 3 to 6 oz. of dried herbs to I cup of vegetable oil (olive, coconut, etc.). Place in an uncovered cooking crock, stir well and bake in the oven at 100° to 150° for 3 to 5 hours (or you can use a crock pot). Check periodically to ensure the mixture does not burn and stir occasionally. When finished, squeeze the spent herbs through a strainer, allowing them to sit for awhile to drain off. This gives you an ''oil infusion." To harden the salve to the right consistency, add approximately I ounce of shaved beeswax to 1 cup of oil infusion. Warm over low heat until the wax is completely melted. When finished, pour warm oil into appropriate small jars and allow to cool. A few capsules of vitamin E oil should be added to help preserve the salve. |
| After the beeswax has melted and the mixture has |
< previous page | page_51 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!