Stinging nettle tinctures using fresh and dried

Crafting a Holistic Nettle Tincture

Stinging nettle (Urtica incisa) is a powerhouse herb known for its numerous health benefits. One of the most effective ways to harness its medicinal properties is by making a tincture. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a nettle tincture using 100% proof vodka, which is ideal for extracting all the beneficial compounds from the nettle.

Why Use 100% Proof Vodka?

100% proof vodka, which is 50% water and 50% alcohol, is perfect for tinctures because it effectively extracts both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds from the nettle. This balanced extraction ensures that you get a potent, full-spectrum tincture. Although 100% proof vodka can be hard to find, it's worth the effort for the best results. You can purchase it from [Harris Organic Wine](https://www.harrisorganicwine.com.au/shop/100-proof-vodka-australia.html).

Fresh vs. Dried Nettle

Using fresh nettle in tinctures can be a bit more challenging than using dried nettle due to the water content in fresh plants. The water in fresh nettle can dilute the alcohol, potentially compromising the extraction process. For a more in-depth understanding and calculations on using fresh nettle, you can refer to this [YouTube guide](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94WK61iE8IU) by an alcohol expert.

Ingredients and Equipment

- Fresh or dried stinging nettle leaves and stems
- 100% proof vodka
- Clean mason jar with a lid
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Dark glass bottle for storage
- Labels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Nettle:**
- **Fresh Nettle:** Wash and pat dry to remove any dirt or insects. Handle with gloves to avoid stinging.
- **Dried Nettle:** Ensure it’s clean and free from any debris.

2. **Fill the Jar:**
- Place the nettle (fresh or dried) in a clean mason jar, filling it about halfway.

3. **Add Vodka:**
- Pour the 100% proof vodka over the nettle until it’s completely submerged. Ensure the nettle is fully covered by the vodka.

4. **Seal and Shake:**
- Seal the jar tightly with the lid and shake it well to mix the contents.

5. **Steep:**
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar occasionally to help with the extraction process.

6. **Strain:**
- After the steeping period, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the plant material. Pour the tincture into a clean, dark glass bottle.

7. **Label and Store:**
- Label the bottle with the date and contents. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.

Using Nettle Tincture

To use the nettle tincture, add a few drops to water, tea, or juice. It’s a versatile remedy that can support overall health, reduce inflammation, boost vitality, and more.

Benefits of Nettle Tincture

- **Full-Spectrum Extraction:** The 50/50 alcohol and water mix in 100% proof vodka ensures a comprehensive extraction of nettle’s beneficial compounds.
- **Convenient and Potent:** Tinctures are easy to store and use, and they offer a concentrated form of the herb’s medicinal properties.
- **Versatile Use:** Nettle tincture can be used in various health applications, from boosting immunity to supporting joint health.

Creating a nettle tincture is a rewarding process that allows you to capture the full benefits of this powerful herb. Whether you choose fresh or dried nettle, following these steps will help you produce a high-quality tincture that supports your holistic health needs. 🌿

Additional Resources

For more information on using fresh nettle and adjusting for water content, check out this [expert video guide](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94WK61iE8IU).

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www.saarinenorganics.com

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