Lemon balm has many health benefits and one of the best ways to use it is in a tincture. Learn how to make this simple lemon balm tincture using fresh lemon balm from your garden!
Roughly chop up a few handfuls of fresh lemon balm then put the chopped herb into a pint jar, filling it almost all the way and mashing it down a bit with your hand or a wooden spoon.
Pour in the 80 proof vodka to cover the lemon balm. You might have to push down the leaves a bit and some still may float, but that’s ok.
Cover the jar with a lid and put it in a cool and dark place (a pantry works well). For the first few days check on it and give it a gentle shake.
Let the tincture infuse for at least 4 to 6 weeks, but it can go even longer than that, several months or more.
When you’re ready to use the tincture, use a fine mesh sieve lined with a few layers of cheesecloth to strain out the lemon balm. Use the cheesecloth to squeeze as much of the tincture out as possible.
Store the tincture in dropper bottles for easy use. It will keep for many years!