Hunters and gatherers...

Well, in a vegetarian's household, we can't exactly say we are hunters and gatherers. But we most certainly can coin the trade label of bread makers and herbal concocters! (Considering we do a shit ton of that...)

Today, Zoe and I decided to go on another 'hunt'. Searching for the surprisingly easy to find and weed-like plant, St. John's Wort.

Most would know it for its seasonal depression aiding properties...

And with all the season changes we endure here in Portland, it's sort of a supplemental staple for us. (Or at least Sean and I).

Though this plant has many preferred traits and constituents that are medicinally beneficial, it should only be used by adults and under the provision and approval of a doctor. 

For those of you whom are like me, a somewhat novice to the herbal concocting game, you should probably do a little read up, and consultation with a licensed professional before making and ingesting this tincture. Fortunately for me, I work with pharmaceutical and herbal doctors on a day-to-day basis and the information provided to me has been handed to me directly. 

Step one: The Harvest. 

Things to look for check list:

1. ) Location: 

- Is it overly exposed to outside contaminants (ie: motorists, pesticides etc.)? 

- Is it being poached on by St. John's wort beetles (Chrysolina beetle)? 

- Is it being pillaged by other herbal enthusiasts? 

If not, pick away! But be sure to thank your plants for your bounty.

2.) Pick: 

- Most tinctures will call for the flower. Pick the flower and it will reproduce more within 2-3 weeks or less. Pick the stem from the shaft of the flower and it will take a bit longer for it to regenerate.

Step two: The recipe. 

I used a recipe that called for the flowers only however, with a child helper they tend to ignore all rules of thumb and pick the stem. I plucked each flower and bud from the stem and set aside.

My recipe also called for hawthorn berries and the fleshy milk parts of freshly picked green oats, but I usually have neither this time of year (unless I stock up at Rainbow market in SF when we visit). So as a substitute for flavor and consistency, I add hand-cut/ hand-picked cherries (which are full for antioxidants and anti-cancer fighting agents) and St. John's wort to a sealable jar then fill it about 2-3 inches submerged in vodka/ whiskey/ brandy or in my case spiced rum of 80-100 proof (40-50 percent alcohol). Proof is important for the extraction process of the plant constituents.

Allow your tincture to sit for 3-6 weeks, then strain and use 1/2-1 tsp twice daily for approximately one week. Cease use for one week and use the following week. Alternating use will allow your body to process it's energies and cycle it without building tolerance. This should last an entire winter if made in plenty.