Sometimes we use words interchangeably not realizing others are just learning or don't know the definitions. With that in mind, here's a start to some words we use frequently.

What is an elixir?

An elixir is a combination of alcohol with honey and specific herb or berries to create a herbal formula.

What is a salve?

A salve is a soothing balm made from the herbal oil to address specific concerns to soothe skin such as baby balm for diaper rash or bug balm.

What is a tincture?

A tincture is a liquid extract made by soaking a specific herb or herbs in alcohol to extract the active ingredients from the herbs. Alcohol is considered an excellent solvent because it is food grade and can extract herbal constituents, such as resins and alkaloids, that are poorly soluble in water. We use organic vodka as our alcohol of choice. After a certain time, we strain the herbs as the liquid has taken on the properties of the herb.

What is an herbal oil?

A carrier oil such as olive oil is used to infuse an herb or herbs to extract the properties onto the oil. Similar to the tincture except in this case it is an oil. This is not to be confused with Essential Oils.