I (I really love formulas) always say never mix herbs together if you haven’t tasted them Things can look real nice together on paper or in mindspace, but juts have dreadfully clashing flavors. I call this the dark chocolate meets ketchup clause.

(well, at least just now I did)

Like in so many things, you go with a feeling and try not to get dogmatic. I think of it like music. No combination of instruments can surpass the beauty or one voice or instrument, nor can that one voice outshine the interplay of carefully woven melodies.

Sometimes though, the moment calls more strongly for one than the other.

You’ve probably noticed that Lavender tincture can be really strong, so depending on the batch of flowers I may have a higher proportion of honey than I normally do with the Elderberry elixir, but it’s mostly the same. Everyone I work with way prefers the Lavender elixir to plain Lavender tincture or Lavender glycerite.

So glad you’ve been enjoying the Elderberry Elixir, it certainly goes over well with my clients and students…. anytime we can make medicine more food like and pleasant it’s more likely to be utilized and remembered which makes me very happy.

You mentioned your lavender elixir, do you make it the same way as your elderberry? I wondered if it was a straight forward half honey and half brandy in half a jar full of dried lavender or if you added other things such as rosehips and orange peel? I ran a workshop on tinctures last Saturday and several people made a lavender tincture, commenting on how soothing the tincture they tasted had been. I’d have loved to have been able to give them some lavender elixir as well so wondered how it differed. They all drooled over the elderberry elixir and said they would be making their own next autumn! Thanks for all the fantastic ideas you share with us.

You’re right on Jane, and your observations are very well put indeed. Many people never take the time to notice the intensity of one on one interaction with their foods and teas (and sometimes each other) and it really can be quite an experience.

Sloth, I think that largely depends on where you live and what’s available to you… Ideally, pick an herb that’s very nourishing and is also a food, so that you can work with it in as many different ways as possible. Nettles, oats, alfalfa, rose and elder are all lovely choices but if something else calls to you, go with it.

I want to work with a simple for the year.

what would be a good one to start with?