Homemade Peppermint Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol

Peppermint is a highly aromatic herb commonly used in culinary, herbal, and aromatic applications. Making a peppermint tincture allows you to extract its natural compounds into a concentrated liquid form. This guide outlines the process of creating a high-quality tincture using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol for optimal extraction.

What is Peppermint?

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid mint species created by crossing watermint (Mentha aquatica) and spearmint (Mentha spicata). It is widely known for its strong menthol content, which gives it an intense cooling sensation and fresh aroma. Peppermint is used in teas, extracts, essential oils, and culinary dishes due to its bold flavor and fragrant properties.

How Peppermint Differs from Other Mint Varieties

• Common Mint (Mentha spp.): A general term for various mint species, common mint has a milder flavor and is widely used in culinary and herbal preparations.
• Spearmint (Mentha spicata): Contains lower menthol levels than peppermint, offering a sweeter, milder flavor.
• Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum spp.): Not a true mint, this plant has a spicier, herbal flavor with hints of oregano and thyme.

Where is Peppermint Grown?

Peppermint thrives in moist, temperate climates and is widely cultivated in Oregon, Washington, Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania. It grows best in rich, well-drained soil with ample moisture and partial to full sunlight.

Sourcing and Selecting Quality Peppermint

For the best tincture results, source organic, fresh, or dried peppermint leaves from reputable suppliers, farmers’ markets, or cultivated home gardens. Look for vibrant green leaves with a strong, cooling scent. Avoid plant material that is wilted, yellowed, or lacking fragrance, as these signs indicate diminished quality.

Preparing Peppermint for Tincture

• Ensure the leaves are clean and free from debris.
• Gently crush or chop the leaves to improve extraction efficiency.

Homemade Peppermint Extract Recipe

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Category

Herbal Extracts

Prep Time

48 hours

Creating a peppermint tincture at home is a simple and effective way to preserve plant compounds. Whether used for culinary, herbal, or aromatic applications, making a tincture allows for customized extraction.

Ingredients

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

• 4 fl oz 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol

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Directions

Combine Ingredients

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

2. Pour 4 fl oz of 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol on top of the plant material. 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 peppermint tincture at home allows you to preserve the essence of this refreshing herb in a liquid extract.

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 Peppermint Tincture

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

Ways to Use Peppermint Tincture

Culinary Applications

• Flavor Enhancer: Adds a fresh, cooling essence to desserts, teas, and beverages.
• Herbal Teas: A few drops can be blended into warm herbal infusions.
• Tincture Blends: May be combined with other botanical extracts in herbal preparations.

Aromatic & Crafting Uses

• Perfumery: Can be blended into botanical fragrance blends.
• DIY Skincare: May be incorporated into handmade botanical skincare products.

Final Thoughts on Crafting a Peppermint Tincture

Making a peppermint tincture at home allows you to preserve the essence of this refreshing herb in a liquid extract. Using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol ensures a high-quality extraction, free from unwanted additives. Whether for crafting herbal preparations, aromatic applications, or culinary experimentation, peppermint tincture is a versatile addition to any home collection.

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