How to Make Milk Thistle Glycerite

Milk thistle is a medicinal herb that has been shown to be healing and regenerative to the liver, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center -- the seeds contain medicinal compounds. Usually the seeds are extracted into an alcohol base to make an herbal tincture, but it is possible to extract the seeds into vegetable glycerine to make an alcohol-free extract. This is known as a glycerite. The process does take time, but yields several ounces of herbal extract. Always consult with a physician before taking herbs.

Two clean quart size canning jars with tight fitting lids
Food grade vegetable glycerine (24 fluid oz.)
Water (8 fluid oz.)
1 lb. organic whole milk thistle seeds
Large hand-held mesh strainer
Cheesecloth
Coffee grinder or food processor

Instructions

Prepare the Glycerite
- 1
  Grind the milk thistle seeds to a coarse powder. This may need to be done in batches.
- 2
  Pour the resulting powder into a jar.
- 3
  Combine the vegetable glyerine and water in a measuring cup and stir well.
- 4
  Pour the glycerine mixture into the jar, making sure that at least 2 inches of liquid covers the ground seeds.
- 5
  Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- 6
  Cap the jar tightly and shake well.
- 7
  Store the jar in a cool, dry spot away from heat and light for two to four weeks. Shake jar once or twice daily during this time.
Straining the Glycerite
- 8
  Allow the herbs to settle to bottom of jar by not shaking for one to two days before straining.
- 9
  Place mesh strainer over the mouth of another jar and line with cheesecloth.
- 10
  Gently pour the infused liquid through the strainer and into the second jar.
- 11
  Place wet pulp in cheesecloth and squeeze to extract the remaining liquid.
- 12
  Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator or in a cool, dry, darkened area.

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How to Make Milk Thistle Glycerite

Instructions

Prepare the Glycerite

Straining the Glycerite