Homemade Juniper Tincture and Extract Recipe

This guide will take you step-by-step through making a juniper berry tincture using USDA Certified Organic 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol. You’ll learn how simple it can be to make a potent juniper berry extract at home.

What is Juniper Berry?

Juniper berries are small, dark purple cones from the Juniperus tree, a resilient evergreen found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Despite being called berries, they are actually seed cones with a distinctive piney, slightly peppery flavor. Juniper berries have been used for centuries in culinary, medicinal, and spiritual practices and are perhaps best known as the primary flavoring in gin.

Traditional Uses and Benefits of Juniper Berry

Historically, juniper berries have been valued for their antiseptic and digestive properties, often used to alleviate stomach issues and support urinary health. Various cultures regarded them as powerful cleansing agents, both physically and spiritually. In modern herbalism, juniper berries are appreciated for their antioxidant properties and are often used in tinctures to support digestion, respiratory health, and reduce inflammation.

Preparing Juniper Berries for Tincture

To prepare juniper berries for tincturing, rinse them thoroughly and dry them completely. Lightly crush or chop the berries to release their natural oils, enhancing the extraction process. Place the prepared berries in a clean, dry jar, ready for extraction with Culinary Solvent’s 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol.

Recipe: Homemade Juniper Berry Tincture and Extract

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (by weight) of juniper berries, fresh or dried
• 5 fluid ounces of USDA Certified Organic 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol (115 grams)

Instructions

1. Place the crushed juniper berries in a glass jar.
2. Pour the ethanol over the berries, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Seal the jar tightly and shake gently.
4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking gently every few days.
5. After extraction, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove berry pieces.
6. Transfer the finished tincture into a clean dropper bottle for easy use.

Best Practices for Storing Your Juniper Berry Tincture or Extract

Store your juniper berry tincture in a dark glass bottle, away from sunlight and heat. Proper storage will help preserve the tincture’s potency, and it can last for up to two years when stored correctly.

Suggested Uses and Dosage for Juniper Berry Tincture

Juniper berry tincture is commonly used to support digestion and urinary health. Typical dosage is 5-10 drops diluted in water or tea, taken once or twice daily. Due to its potency, it’s recommended to use juniper berry tincture in moderation and consult a healthcare provider if needed.

Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Own Juniper Berry Tincture

Crafting a juniper berry tincture is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy this aromatic, flavorful herb. By using USDA Certified Organic 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol, you ensure a high-quality extraction that captures the full potency of juniper. Start your DIY tincture-making journey with juniper and explore its unique benefits and flavor.

Disclaimer:
No health claims are made from the content of this blog post. Please consult medical professionals individually before deciding to make or consume the tinctures and extracts discussed.