Use Medicated Wine as a Tonic

Tinctures are a way to concentrate and preserve the properties of herbs that promote healing. Tinctures are made with some type of alcohol, usually vodka, gin, or brandy. These tinctures are quite concentrated; therefore, they are usually taken in small amounts, generally a few drops to a tablespoon. Tinctures are potent and care must be taken when using them for medicinal purposes. Strictly speaking, a tincture is created by steeping an herb in any type of alcohol; however, using wine as your medium produces a product that is not quite as stimulating -- primarily due to the lower alcohol content -- and which can be sipped rather than having to limit the dosage.

Alcohol is used to make tinctures, because it will dissolve plant substances that are normally insoluble in water. Wine delivers the same result; even though, it is usually only around 30-proof instead of the 90-proof of the alcohol used for tinctures. Medicated wines, however, will decompose rather quickly and should, therefore, be made in smaller quantities than you would tinctures. (Tinctures will keep indefinitely.)

When making your own medicated wine to use as a tonic, you will want to use a full-bodied red wine. (Some people recommend a Madeira; however, I prefer a cabernet sauvignon. Your personal tastes will probably dictate your choice.) Red wines hold up longer, while white wines and other light wines break down too quickly.

Following is a recipe for a medicated tonic wine:

Ingredients:
1 pint red wine
1 sprig rosemary
1 small nutmeg, bruised
1 inch ginger root, bruised
1 inch cinnamon bark, bruised
12 large raisins
(Some recipes may also call for the use of wormwood; however, I do not recommend it. Wormwood contains thujone, which can act as a narcotic and even a poison. [See: Artemisia: an Intoxicating Plant for Your Garden.] It is best, in my opinion, that the home herbalist steer clear of the wormwood.)

To make, pour off an ounce of the wine before adding all of the herbs. Replace the cork and store in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks. Strain and mix with another bottle of fresh wine.

Sip a small glass of this medicated wine whenever you feel fatigued of if the onset of a cold or flu. This wine can also help to settle an upset stomach.

Tips: Make in small quantities without heat and keep tightly corked when not in use. Also, even though white wines are not normally used, you can make small quantities of medicated wine using your favorite white. For example, use 2 tablespoons each of dried rosemary and dried borage to make a calming cordial that will settle your nerves.

References:

Buchman, Dian Dincin, Ph.D. Herbal Medicine: The Natural Way to Get Well and Stay Well. NY, NY: Wings Books, 1996.

Kowalchik, Claire and William H. Hylton, eds. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1998.