Homemade Holy Basil Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol

Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is a fragrant herb widely used in herbal preparations, culinary recipes, and traditional botanical formulations. Making a homemade holy basil tincture allows you to extract and preserve its natural plant compounds in a convenient liquid form. This guide outlines how to create a high-quality tincture using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol for optimal extraction.

What is Holy Basil?

Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum or Ocimum tenuiflorum), also called Tulsi, belongs to the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It is widely grown for its aromatic leaves and is traditionally incorporated into herbal teas, culinary infusions, and botanical formulations.

Where is Holy Basil Grown?

Holy basil is native to India and Southeast Asia but is cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical climates. In the United States, it thrives in Florida, Texas, California, Georgia, and Hawaii. Holy basil prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Sourcing and Selecting Quality Holy Basil

For the best tincture results, source organic, fresh, or dried holy basil leaves from reputable herbal suppliers, farmers’ markets, or cultivated home gardens. Choose vibrant green, aromatic leaves with a fresh, spicy-sweet scent. Avoid plant material that is wilted, yellowed, or lacking fragrance, as this may indicate diminished quality.

Preparing Holy Basil for Tincture

• Ensure the leaves are clean and free from dirt or debris.
• Gently crush or chop the leaves to increase surface area for optimal extraction.

Homemade Holy Basil Extract Recipe

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Category

Herbal Extracts

Prep Time

48 hours

Creating a holy basil tincture at home is a simple and effective way to preserve plant compounds. Whether used for herbal preparations, culinary recipes, or traditional botanical formulations, making a tincture allows for customized extraction.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (28 g) of fresh or dried holy basil leaves, chopped

• 4 fl oz 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

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Directions

Combine Ingredients

1. Place the chopped holy basil leaves in a clean, dry glass jar.

2. Pour 4 fl oz of 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol on top of the holy basil. 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 holy basil tincture at home allows for a versatile, high-quality extraction that can be used in culinary and botanical 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 Holy Basil Tincture

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

Ways to Use Holy Basil Tincture

Culinary Applications

• Flavor Additive: Adds a mild, sweet-spicy herbal flavor to teas, smoothies, or mocktails.
• Infused Syrups: Can be blended with honey or citrus for unique botanical beverages.

Botanical and Aromatherapy Uses

• Natural Formulations: Commonly incorporated into DIY herbal blends and botanical extracts.
• DIY Aromatherapy: The fresh, clove-like aroma of holy basil makes it a popular choice for essential oil-based home remedies.

Final Thoughts on Crafting a Holy Basil Tincture

Making a holy basil tincture at home allows for a versatile, high-quality extraction that can be used in culinary and botanical applications. Using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol ensures a pure and effective extraction process. Whether used in recipes, herbal infusions, or DIY formulations, a holy basil tincture is a great addition to any home apothecary.

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