Bee Balm Tincture: Benefits And Easy Preparation

This bee balm tincture makes use of bee balm’s natural properties, providing soothing support during cold and flu season. On my homestead, where bee balm flourishes, I find this tincture especially comforting in the colder months.Making a bee balm tincture is simple once you have a few key materials. Whether you’re using fresh or dried bee balm, the process is straightforward, though the proportions will differ slightly. Here’s what you’ll need:Ingredients:Fresh or dried bee balm leaves and flowersHigh-proof alcohol like vodka (or any other palatable alcohol that’s at least 80 proof/40 percent).Equipment:HarvestingHarvest your bee balm when the flowers are in full bloom, typically in mid to late summer, to capture the peak of their medicinal properties. If you’re using fresh bee balm, pick the leaves and flowers in the morning, once the dew has dried, but before the sun gets too high. This timing ensures the plant’s oils are at their best.  Preparing Your Bee BalmWhether you’re using freshly picked leaves and flowers or dried ones, ensure they are clean and free from pests. If fresh, gently rinse and pat dry before roughly chopping or bruising them to release their oils.Making the TinctureFill your glass jar:Two-thirds full of fresh bee balmHalf full of dried bee balmPour alcohol over the bee balm until the jar is nearly full, ensuring all plant material is submerged to prevent mold growth.Seal the jar tightly and shake well to mix the herbs and alcohol.Store the jar in a cool, dark place, shaking it every few days. Let it steep for 4-6 weeks—the longer it sits, the stronger your tincture will be.Straining and Storing the TinctureOnce steeped, strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Funnel the strained liquid into amber dropper bottles, label them with the date and contents, and store in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, your tincture can last for several years.Using Your Bee Balm TinctureFor easing discomfort from sinus congestion, sore throats, and other symptoms, a common practice is to take 1 to 2 droppers full, 1 to 4 times daily as needed. However, for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs, consulting a clinical herbalist is recommended.Bee balm comes in many forms, from the common red varieties found in gardens to the wild pink types that grow in natural settings across the country. This recipe works with any edible Monarda species, making it versatile for whatever type you may have on hand.