How to Make a Burdock Root Tincture

Herbal tinctures are made by steeping plants in alcohol. The result is an extract, or tincture. Tinctures last a long time and are more concentrated than teas. You might have to drink cups and cups of an herbal tea to get the same effect afforded by a couple of spoonfuls of a tincture of the same herb. Burdock (Artium lappa) is a tall, large-leafed plant with stalks covered with sticky burrs. The long root of the plant may be eaten like a vegetable, steeped for tea or made into a tincture that has been used as a diuretic, blood purifier or to ease pain in aching joints.

Things You'll Need

• Burdock root
• Glass jar with lid
• Vodka
• Cheesecloth
• Small bottle with stopper

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Instructions

• 1

  Dig the root of a burdock plant. Burdock has a very long taproot, so you'll need to dig deep to get the whole thing. Wash it thoroughly, scrubbing to remove all dirt. Let it dry.

• 2

  Peel the burdock root, and chop it into pieces approximately 1-inch square. Put the pieces into a large glass jar. An old pickle jar works well.

• 3

  Cover the chopped root with 100 proof vodka. Put the lid on the jar and set aside in a dark room or closet.

• 4

  Shake the jar once a week or so for the next six to eight weeks.

• 5

  Strain the liquid from the jar through cheesecloth and decant into smaller bottles. Label the bottle "Burdock Root Tincture" and note the date on the label. Discard the burdock root.