Homemade Chickweed Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol

Chickweed is a versatile herb commonly found in gardens, meadows, and natural landscapes. Making a homemade chickweed tincture allows for a concentrated botanical extraction using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol, preserving the plant’s natural compounds in a liquid form.

What is Chickweed?

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a low-growing plant from the Caryophyllaceae family. Recognized for its delicate green leaves and tiny white star-shaped flowers, chickweed has long been incorporated into culinary and herbal traditions.

Why Make a Chickweed Tincture?

• Concentrated Extraction: A tincture provides an efficient way to extract plant constituents.
• Long Shelf Life: Ethanol-based tinctures remain stable for extended periods.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for herbal crafting, infusions, and topical applications.

Where Does Chickweed Grow?

Chickweed thrives in moist, shaded environments across North America. It is commonly foraged in New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Washington, and North Carolina. Often seen as a common weed, chickweed is valued for its delicate texture and historical uses.

Sourcing and Selecting Quality Chickweed

For the best tincture results, source fresh or dried chickweed from reputable herbal suppliers, farmers’ markets, or responsibly foraged locations. Look for:

• Vibrant green leaves
• No signs of yellowing or wilting
• A mild, earthy aroma

If drying chickweed at home, ensure proper airflow and avoid excessive heat to preserve plant integrity.

Preparing Chickweed for Tincture

• Rinse fresh chickweed thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
• Pat dry and allow to wilt slightly to reduce excess moisture.
• Chop or crush the plant material to increase surface area for better extraction.

Homemade Chickweed Extract Recipe

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Category

Herbal Extracts

Prep Time

48 hours

Creating a chickweed tincture at home is a simple and effective way to preserve plant compounds. Whether used for herbal crafting, infusions, or topical applications, making a tincture allows for customized extraction.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (28 g) of fresh or dried chickweed

• 4 fl oz 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

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Directions

Combine Ingredients

1. Place the chopped chickweed in a clean glass jar with an airtight lid.

2. Pour 4 fl oz of 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol on top of the chopped chickweed. Ensure it is fully submerged under the food grade ethanol.

3. Seal the jar tightly and shake gently to mix.

Wait

1. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 48 hours, shaking occasionally.

Strain and Store

1. After the extraction period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

2. Transfer the strained liquid into a dark glass dropper bottle for storage.

Recipe Note

Making a chickweed tincture at home allows for a high-quality, concentrated extract that can be used in various herbal applications.

Store your tincture in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and sunlight, to maintain potency. Properly stored tinctures remain stable over time.

Best Practices for Storing Your Chickweed Tincture

Store your tincture in a dark glass bottle away from heat and sunlight to maintain its quality. When properly stored, tinctures can remain effective for up to two years.

Ways to Use Chickweed Tincture

Herbal & Culinary Applications

• Herbal Infusions: A few drops may be added to tea blends.
• Natural Crafting: Can be incorporated into DIY botanical formulations.

Topical Preparations

• Skin Applications: Often blended into herbal skincare products.
• Oil-Based Preparations: Can be infused into carrier oils for external use.

Final Thoughts on Crafting a Chickweed Tincture

Making a chickweed tincture at home allows for a high-quality, concentrated extract that can be used in various herbal applications. Using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol ensures a pure and efficient extraction process.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. Consult a professional before using tinctures for any specific application. Individual reactions may vary.