• General Health Maintenance ~ 1/2 teaspoon twice daily.
• Acute Skin Eruptions ~ 10 drops in water frequently throughout the day.
• For arthritis, gout, eczema, psoriasis & liver trouble ~ 1 teaspoon 3 times a day in water.
• Indigestion ~ 10 drops in water every hour until resolved.

Tips

1. Harvest at the Right Time: For optimal potency, harvest dandelion flowers, leaves, or roots during the plant's peak season—spring for leaves and fall for roots.
2. Select Healthy Plants: Choose dandelions from areas free of pesticides and pollution. Look for vibrant, healthy plants with no signs of wilting or disease.
3. Thoroughly Clean the Dandelions: Rinse the harvested dandelion parts under cool water to remove dirt and debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel or allow them to air dry completely before use.
4. Use High-Quality Alcohol: Select high-proof alcohol, such as vodka, brandy, or grain alcohol, with at least 80 proof for optimal extraction process of medicinal compounds.
5. Ratio of Plant Material to Alcohol: Aim for a ratio of 1 part dandelion to 2 parts alcohol by volume. Ensure the plant material is fully submerged in the alcohol to prevent spoilage.
6. Maceration Time: Allow the dandelion mixture to macerate in the alcohol for at least 4 to 6 weeks in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar daily during this period to facilitate extraction.
7. Labeling and Dating: Label the jar with the contents (dandelion tincture), the type of alcohol used, and the date of preparation. This helps track the tincture's potency and expiration date.
8. Strain Carefully: After maceration, strain the tincture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all plant material. Squeeze the plant material to extract as much liquid as possible.
9. Start with Small Doses: When using the tincture, start with a small dose and gradually increase if needed. Monitor your body's response and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. If the bitter taste is difficult to overcome, try mixing with another liquid, such as tea or juice.

Storage

1. Choose Suitable Containers: Transfer the strained dandelion extract into dark glass bottles with a tight-sealing lid. Amber or cobalt blue bottles are ideal as they help protect the tincture from light exposure.
2. Avoid Light and Heat: Store the bottles in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources like stoves or radiators. Just like with most other herbal products, light and heat can degrade the tincture and reduce its potency.
3. Maintain Consistent Temperature: Aim for a stable temperature environment, preferably between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Avoid storing the tincture in areas prone to temperature fluctuations.
4. Label the Bottles: Label each bottle with the contents (dandelion tincture), the type of alcohol used, and the date of preparation. This helps you track the potency and expiration date of the tincture.
5. Check for Contamination: Ensure that the bottles are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation or contamination. Inspect the bottles periodically for signs of leakage or damage.
6. Keep Away from Children and Pets: Store the dandelion tincture out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Consider using childproof caps or storing the bottles in a locked cabinet for added safety.
7. Use Dark, Opaque Containers: If you don't have dark glass bottles, store the tincture in opaque containers or wrap clear bottles with aluminum foil to block out light.
8. Monitor Shelf Life: Dandelion tincture typically has a shelf life of several years when stored properly. However, periodically check the tincture for any changes in color, odor, or taste, which may indicate spoilage.