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Garlic Tincture

A strong alcohol extract of fresh garlic, traditionally taken in small, increasing doses. Macerate finely chopped garlic in high-proof alcohol for 10 days, then strain and bottle. Potent aroma; dilute drops in water before taking.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Herbal remedy, Tincture
Cuisine Traditional home remedy
Servings 200 ml

Equipment

  • Cutting board and knife (or mortar & pestle)
  • Clean screw-top jar (≈ 500 ml)
  • Fine sieve or muslin cloth
  • Funnel
  • Dark glass dropper bottles (30–50 ml)
  • Labels and pen

Ingredients
  

  • 350 g peeled garlic very finely chopped or crushed
  • 200 ml 96% alcohol pharmaceutical grade, potable

Instructions
 

  • Prep: Finely chop or crush the garlic to expose as much surface as possible.
  • Combine: Place the garlic in a clean jar and pour over the 96% alcohol until fully covered. Clean the rim and seal tightly.
  • Macerate: Store in a cool, dark place for 10 days, shaking the jar once daily. Ensure the garlic stays submerged.
  • Strain: Pour through muslin or a fine sieve, pressing the solids well to collect the extract.
  • Bottle: Funnel the clear tincture into dark dropper bottles. Label with contents, alcohol strength, and date.
  • Optional: For a milder tincture, dilute the strained extract with cooled, boiled water to ~45–50% alcohol before bottling.
  • Use: Take diluted in a little water. Start with 1 drop per dose and increase by 1 drop daily up to 15 drops, then taper back down in the same steps. Common frequency: 2–3 times daily.

Notes

  • Potency: This is a high-strength extract; always take in water, not neat. If taste or stomach feel is intense, reduce the number of drops or dilute more.
  • Storage & shelf life: Keep tightly closed, cool, and dark. Best within 2 years.
  • Medical advice: Not a substitute for medical care.
    • Consult a healthcare professional before use—especially if you have GI issues, reflux, gallbladder disease, bleeding disorders, or take anticoagulants/antiplatelets or other regular medications.
    • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for children, without professional guidance.
  • Stop & check: Discontinue and seek advice if you experience persistent stomach pain, dizziness, rash, or other adverse effects.