Homemade Organic Willow Bark Tincture and Extract Recipe

What is Willow Bark?

Willow bark is derived from the outer layer of various species of willow trees, including white willow (Salix alba), black willow (Salix nigra), crack willow, and purple willow.

Willow bark contains salicin, a naturally occurring compound. Individuals with allergies to aspirin or salicylates or other medical conditions should exercise caution when using willow bark extracts or tinctures.

Historical and Traditional Uses of Willow Bark

Many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Native Americans, incorporated willow bark extracts into their herbal traditions.

In modern times, willow bark continues to be included in herbal preparations.

Preparing Willow Bark for Tincture or Extract

• Clean the willow bark thoroughly with warm water. Do not use soap.
• Dry freshly harvested willow bark completely. Store-bought willow bark is typically pre-dried and ready for use.
• Cut or break large pieces of willow bark into smaller sections to maximize surface area for extraction. While powdered willow bark can be used, grinding is not necessary.

Homemade Willow Bark Extract Recipe

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Category

Herbal Extracts

Creating a willow bark tincture at home is a simple and effective way to preserve plant compounds. This guide outlines the process of creating a high-quality tincture using 200 proof food grade ethanol for effective extraction.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce (27 grams) of willow bark

• 4 fluid ounces (92 grams) of USDA Certified Organic 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

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• 4 fluid ounces of water (tap, distilled, spring, bottled, or well)

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Directions

Combine Ingredients

1. Place willow bark in a glass jar, allowing space around the bark.

2. Pour 200 proof ethanol and water over the bark, ensuring it is fully submerged.

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

Wait

1. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking gently every few days.

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 willow bark tincture at home is a simple way to preserve its qualities.

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 Willow Bark Tincture

Store your willow bark tincture in an amber glass bottle, away from sunlight and heat. Proper storage helps maintain quality for up to two years. Keep the bottle sealed tightly to prevent oxidation or evaporation.

Responsible Use of Willow Bark Tincture

Begin with small amounts when using willow bark tincture. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using botanical extracts, especially if you have aspirin sensitivities or take blood-thinning medications.

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