Cherry bark: Prunus serotina (Ehrh.)
Why cherry bark? Is there anything sweeter than the aroma of newly blossomed cherry trees in early spring? You are probably most familiar with the fruit as fresh cherries or even as cherry juice, but cherry bark also has value in a wellness regime. Historically, cherries were also used in fermentation and production of cherry spirits.
Quality Assured: Our cherry bark is Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth and grown in the U.S.A. without the use of genetic engineering, artificial fertilizers, or pesticides. Our experts here at the Apothecary Shoppe personally evaluate every herb through taste, touch, and smell to assure that you are receiving the best botanicals suitable for use.
Benefits: Because there is not adequate scientific substantive research as defined by the FDA, we are unable to provide any guidance on how to use cherry bark. We suggest you do your own research.
Cautions and contraindications: It is important to note that wild cherry is contraindicated for long-term use and excessive amounts, and should also not be taken during pregnancy.
Formula:
CHERRY BARK TINCTURE:
Dried cherry bark Prunus serotina: 1 ounce (or 2 ounces if fresh)
Alcohol such as vodka or even apple cider vinegar: 1 pint
Mix cherry bark with alcohol or cider vinegar in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, such as a canning or preserving jar.
Keep the tincture in a tightly closed jar in a warm spot (but not in the sun), for approximately two weeks.
Shake the tincture two to three times every day.
After two weeks*, strain the tincture through pharmaceutical filter paper, a coffee filter, cheesecloth, or muslin. You may need to strain your tincture two or even three times to remove all of the herb solids. Leaving solids in your tincture may lead to mold and spoilage.
Store your tincture in a dark bottle or cupboard.
Half a pint of tincture should equal the potency of one ounce of the fresh herb, so approximately one teaspoon will equal the strength of one cup of infusion.
The dose is small, approximately 5 to 12 drops three times a day, although this varies with each herb. Dilute in approximately one-quarter cup of water to take.
*Note that the consensus is that the minimum time to extract herbs into a tincture is two weeks, and the maximum time is three months. Extraction time also depends on the plant material and the percentage of alcohol needed. Most above ground plant parts only need about 40% alcohol and will extract very quickly. Tougher roots and rhizomes typically need a higher percentage of alcohol and longer time to extract.
