Tinctures
Frankincense & Myrrh Tinctures (Concentrated Extract)
A professional-grade liquid extract designed for long-term storage and potent daily wellness. These methods work for Royal Frankincense, Myrrh, or a 50/50 blend of both.
The Standard Ratios
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The Master Ratio (1:5):
- 1 Part Resin (Frankincense, Myrrh, or a blend of both)
- 5 Parts Liquid Base (Solvent)
- Example: 1 oz (approx. 30g) of resin to 5 oz (approx. 150ml) of liquid.
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Choosing Your Base:
- Alcohol (Best for Potency): High-proof alcohol (minimum 40% ABV / 80 Proof Vodka). Alcohol is the most effective way to pull the medicinal compounds out of both resins.
- Alcohol-Free (Alternative): Apple Cider Vinegar or Food-Grade Vegetable Glycerin.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Resin: Grind your Frankincense and/or Myrrh into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. Powdering the resin increases the surface area, allowing the liquid to extract the active ingredients much faster.
- Combine: Place the resin powder into a clean amber glass jar. Pour your chosen base (alcohol, vinegar, or glycerin) over the resin according to the 1:5 ratio.
- Seal & Shake: Seal the jar tightly. Shake vigorously for 1–2 minutes until the powder is fully saturated and the liquid begins to change color.
- The Maceration Process: Store the jar in a cool, dark place (like a kitchen cabinet) for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Daily Maintenance: Shake the jar once a day. This prevents the resin from settling into a solid "brick" at the bottom and ensures a high-potency extract.
- Strain & Bottle: After 6 weeks, strain the liquid through a fine coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean amber glass dropper bottle.
Pro Tips for the Dual-Extract
- The Synergistic Blend: A 50/50 mix of Frankincense and Myrrh is the traditional "Apothecary Standard." Frankincense provides anti-inflammatory properties, while Myrrh offers powerful support for the immune system and oral health.
- Color Check: A Frankincense tincture will usually be a pale, cloudy yellow, while a Myrrh tincture will be a much deeper, dark amber or reddish-brown. A blend will sit somewhere in the middle.
- Usage: Because these are highly concentrated, they are typically taken by adding 5–10 drops to a glass of water, tea, or juice.
Storage & Safety
- Shelf Life: Alcohol-based tinctures are shelf-stable for 3–5 years. Vinegar or glycerin versions should be used within 12 months.
- Avoid Heat: Never store your tinctures near a stove or in direct sunlight, as heat and UV light will destroy the delicate essential oils.
- Container: Use glass only. The potent compounds in these resins can degrade plastic containers over time.