Elderberry Echinacea "Defense" Tincture

Supporting Your Natural Defense's

Step-by-Step Guide: Elderberry Echinacea “Defense” Tincture

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Why This Blend Works

• Elderberries (Sambucus nigra): Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, 

which supports the immune system by reducing oxidative stress. 

Elderberries have been shown to shorten the duration of colds and flu by modulating

cytokine production.

• Echinacea root (Echinacea purpurea): Contains alkamides, polysaccharides, and

flavonoids that boost immunity by increasing white blood cell activity, 

particularly macrophages.

• Ginger root : Offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties,

 thanks to compounds like gingerol and shogaol, supporting respiratory health and

 digestion.

This tincture supports the body's natural defense mechanisms, promotes faster recovery during illness, and reduces inflammation, enhancing overall vitality.

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Ingredients & Supplies

Ingredients

• 1 part dried elderberries (e.g., 50 g)

• 1 part dried echinacea root (e.g., 50 g)

• 1/2 part fresh ginger root, chopped (e.g., 25 g)

• Vodka (minimum 80 proof) or glycerin for alcohol-free tincture

Supplies

• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (16 oz or larger)

• Amber glass bottles with droppers for storage

• Cheesecloth or fine strainer

• Measuring scale or cups

• Labels and marker

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Steps to Create the Tincture

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   • Measure the elderberries and echinacea root by weight or volume.

   • Chop fresh ginger into small pieces to maximize surface area.

2. Combine in the Jar

   • Add 1 part dried elderberries, 1 part dried echinacea root, and 1/2 part chopped ginger to your glass jar.

3. Add the Solvent

   • Cover the herbs with vodka or glycerin. 

Use a 1:2 ratio for fresh herbs (e.g., 100 g of fresh herbs to 200 mL vodka) or 

1:5 for dried herbs (e.g., 100 g of dried herbs to 500 mL vodka). 

Ensure all herbs are fully submerged to prevent spoilage.

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4. Seal and Label

   • Seal the jar tightly and label it with the tincture name, ingredients, date, and planned strain date (4-6 weeks later).

5. Infuse

   • Place the jar in a cool, dark spot. 

Note: Shake daily to mix the herbs and solvent, ensuring even extraction.

6. Strain and Bottle

   • After 4-6 weeks, strain the tincture using cheesecloth or a fine strainer, pressing the herbs to extract all liquid.

   • Transfer the strained tincture into amber glass bottles using a funnel. 

Note: Label bottles with the tincture name, date, and usage instructions.

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Usage Instructions

• Take 1-2 droppers (1–2 mL) daily for general immune support.

• During illness, increase to 3-4 droppers daily for up to a week.

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Precautions!!

• Elderberries: Avoid consuming raw elderberries as they can cause nausea and vomiting. 

Cooking or tincturing neutralizes toxic compounds like cyanogenic glycosides.

• Echinacea: May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed). 

Limit long-term use (no more than 8 weeks) to avoid overstimulation of the immune system.

• Ginger: Can thin blood; consult a healthcare provider if taking anticoagulants.

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Holistic Benefits

• Body: Supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and alleviates cold symptoms.

• Mind: Encourages mindfulness in care and prevention, reducing stress related to illness.

• Spirit: Connects you with nature's healing rhythm through the ritual of preparation and use.

By creating this tincture, you're embracing a proactive, natural approach to health while fostering a deeper connection to plant-based wellness.

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