By Jenny Mills· rural nurse & homesteader · health, safety, law and the paperwork of going bush
“After three failed batches of echinacea that attracted fungus, I learned that drying your roots to under 10% moisture is the only thing stopping your tinctures from rotting.”
Stick to 40% (80 proof) for 90% of herbs. That's standard vodka. Done.
Alcohol Percentages (No Bullshit)
Stick to 40% (80 proof) for 90% of herbs. That's standard vodka. Done.
Don't use rubbing alcohol (isopropyl). It's toxic. You'll end up with a poison, not a tincture.
For roots/barks (like ginger or slippery elm), use 60% (120 proof) if you can get it. But here's the reality: 40% vodka works fine. Don't overcomplicate it.
96% ethanol? Forget it. You can't legally buy it in Australia without a license. Vodka is the only practical option for off-grid.
Extraction Time (How Long? Just Do It)
4 weeks minimum. That's non-negotiable.
Flowers (chamomile, lavender): 2 weeks if you're desperate, but 4 is better.
Leaves (mint, lemon balm): 3-4 weeks.
Roots/barks (echinacea, ginger): 4-6 weeks. Don't rush it.
Shake the jar every day. Seriously. If you don't, you'll get a lumpy mess.
Strain when the liquid is clear and the herbs look pale. Usually after 4 weeks. If it's still cloudy, wait another week.
Practical Tips (Off-Grid Reality)
Use a clean glass jar. Not plastic. Not metal. Mason jars from Bunnings ($5-$8) are perfect.
Don't use fresh herbs. They have too much water. Dry them first (hang them in a dark, dry place for 1-2 weeks).
Label everything: "Echinacea 40% 2023" (no "maybe" or "I think").
Store in a dark cupboard. Light ruins tinctures.
Don't use your only good vodka. Buy a $15 bottle of Gordon's or Hooch (Woolworths/Coles) for this.
If you're off-grid and have a solar still, you can make your own ethanol. But it's a pain. Stick to vodka.
Australian Suppliers & Pricing (No Overpriced Hype)
Vodka (40%):
Woolworths/Coles: $12-$15 for 700ml (Gordon's, Hooch, or house brand)
Don't pay $30 for "premium" vodka. It's the same alcohol.
Herbs (dried, off-grid friendly):
Bunnings: Grow your own. It's cheaper and you know it's clean.
Local health stores: $15-$25 for 100g dried echinacea/mint (e.g., The Natural Pharmacy in Melbourne)
Avoid online "herbalists" charging $50 for 50g. You can grow it.
Suppliers to avoid:
Chemstore: They sell 96% ethanol but you need a license. Not worth the hassle.
Any "organic" tincture brand: They cost 3x more than making it yourself.
Bottom line: 40% vodka + 4 weeks + clean glass jar = functional tincture.
Don't overthink it. Get it done.
Where to buy cheaply:
Vodka: Woolworths/Coles ($12-$15)
Dried herbs: Grow them or buy bulk from local health stores ($15-$25/100g)
Jars: Bunnings ($5-$8 for Mason jars)
Total cost for a batch: $30-$40 (enough for 10+ tinctures)
When to Call a Professional
While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:
Electrical work beyond basic 12V DC additions — requires a licensed electrician
Structural modifications to buildings or load-bearing elements
Gas line installation or modification
Solar array installations above safe voltage thresholds
Any work that affects the structural integrity of your property
Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.
