As the chill of winter sets in and seasonal illnesses abound, our ancestors turned to the wisdom of nature to combat ailments. Among the cherished remedies passed down through generations is the homemade plum tincture. Crafted from prunes and alcohol, this elixir offers a treasure trove of health benefits, providing relief from a range of winter maladies.
Ingredients for The Healing Potion:
- 250 grams of prunes (about 8.8 ounces or approximately 1 and 1/4 cups)
- 1 liter of vodka or domestic alcohol (approximately 33.8 fluid ounces or about 4 and 1/4 cups)
- 1 liter of water (approximately 33.8 fluid ounces or about 4 and 1/4 cups)
Additional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor and Therapeutic Effects (optional):
- Citrus fruits
- Mint
- Cinnamon
- Honey
Method:
- Cut the prunes into small pieces and place them in a glass container.
- Pour the vodka over the prunes and seal the container tightly.
- Allow the mixture to steep for four weeks at room temperature, shaking periodically.
- After steeping, strain the liquid through gauze into another container to remove sediment.
- Submerge the leftover prunes in water for two days, then strain and discard solids.
- Combine the alcoholic infusion with the water infusion, ensuring thorough mixing.
- Filter the mixture once more to eliminate remaining sediment.
- Transfer the tincture into dark bottles for storage.
Usage: Despite its potency, direct consumption of this tincture, especially for children, is not recommended due to its alcohol content. Instead, dilute it in hot water for a soothing tea that aids digestion and relieves sinus congestion. The aroma of the tincture offers therapeutic benefits akin to nasal drops, providing relief from blocked sinuses.