Usnea Tincture 1 oz
People reach for Usnea because it may:
✢ Reduce pain and fever
✢Help with cough
✢Help with wound healing
✢ Decrease swelling and may have antimicrobial properties.
Though scientific evidence of these results is lacking.
Usnea used for tincturing was foraged while on our seasonal hikes in Oregon.
Dosages:
Dosages are not regulated by the FDA. Always start with a small amount, such as half a dropper in 2 ounces of water. Gauge how you feel before increasing the dose. Doses should only be taken as needed and are not for everyday use. Spacing doses 3 hours apart is a good standard practice in my experience.
The Disclaimer:
Tinctures are not regulated by the FDA. Always do your own research and talk to your primary physician to see if herbal remedies are right for you. If a serious reaction develops, stop taking immediately. Before giving to children, discuss options with your pediatrician. I have yet to find information if this herb is safe for children.
Resources:
My personal favorite reference book for children is “Naturally Healthy Babies and Children; A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health” by Aviva Jill Romm, MD.
I also love my book “The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicines” by: Charles W. Fetrow, Pharm. D. and Juan R. Avila, Pharm. D.
The Process:
Every tincture is made by jarring the plant with 80 proof vodka and letting these two ingredients tincture in a dark cabinet for 6 or more weeks until the brew looks just right. I use alcohol instead of glycerin because I have learned plant material is better absorbed in the body though an alcohol base versus a glycerin bace. Alcohol-based tinctures also has a longer shelf-life than glycerin-based. However there are definitely reasons one may choose to use glycerin-based instead of alcohol-based. Decide what is best for you! Let me know if you would like to see gycerin-based tinctures in our shop.
All plants are either grown in our personal, pesticide-free garden or foraged for in small quantities while on one of our hiking trips.