CHAMOMILE TINCTURE

Keep a chamomile tincture on hand for any childhood ailments, including colic and digestive issues, or adult stress. To make your own, place dried or fresh chamomile flowers in a clean glass jar (choose a jar that has a plastic, not metal, lid). Cover with high-proof vodka. Seal the jar with a tight-fitting lid and place in a brightly lit spot (not direct sunlight) and let the herbs soak for eight weeks. Turn and gently shake the jar once a day. Strain the herbs from the liquid and pour into a clean, dark-coloured jar. Store in a cool, dark place.

Dosage depends on body weight and age. For children under two, a homeopathic chamomile solution is ideal. Between two and five years, use three to four drops of tincture diluted in boiling water to eliminate the alcohol. For children aged between five and 10, use six to 10 drops in a small amount of warm water, tea or juice, depending on weight. For 10- to 13-year-olds, again depending on body weight, use 12 to 14 drops. For the elderly, use 12 to 14 drops too. For all other adults use 20 to 30 drops, again depending on weight. Take your tincture about 30 minutes before bedtime if it is required for sleep; take three times daily for relaxation.