Guelder rose decocted tincture 1

Nicola has recently made a Guelder rose decocted tincture.  The bark from Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) is often refered to as ‘cramp bark’, so it’s no great surprise that it has been used in the past for muscle cramps, menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, restless leg and many other ailments.

How to make guelder rose decocted tincture

• Peel the bark in short strips from a freshly cut branch.  Remember to prune responsibly.

• Place the strips of bark into a saucepan of water; use enough water so that the bark can float freely.

• Bring the water to a boil and simmer for about 15 minutes.
• Take the pan off the heat and leave to cool.
• Strain off the liquid and measure how much you have.

• Add the same volume of vodka.
• Pour the mixture into a jar and add the strips of bark.

• Leave in a dark cupboard for a month, shaking the jar every day.
• After a month, strain, bottle and label.

Add 2 – 5ml to water and take up to 3 times a day.

If you’re interested in wild plants and trees and their herbal uses, book on to our Herbal Remedies course.

You can see photos from previous courses on our Facebook page.