Electuaries

Do you know what an electuary is? Better yet, have you ever tried some? Electuaries are probably one of the best ways to deliver herbal remedies to those who have sensitive tastes (like children or elderly) because they are sweet. They can be taken by spoonful or dissolved in hot water or warm milk. You can even spread it on toast or crackers!! Honestly, I don't know why these aren't more popular because if you get the right combination of herbs for whatever you want to accomplish, this could be considered a treat!

As the photo says, an electuary is a combination of powdered herbs and/or roots mixed into honey, maple syrup, or even vegetable glycerin. This is a great way to administer those bitter herbs that no one really likes the taste of but that are sooooo good for our livers and the rest of the digestive system. You might have a difficult time getting your kids to drink a cup of tea so an electuary (or nonalcoholic tincture) might be a good alternative.

Another benefit of an electuary is that they are shelf stable and don't require refrigeration (make sure, like the photo above, they are stored in a dark glass container). In a cool place in your home, these can easily last for about 6-12 months. If you'd like to try your hand at making one of these, combine your powdered herb ingredients in a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio with your chosen sweetener, then stirred until thoroughly mixed.

I don't carry any electuaries in my store... at least not yet... but soon... one day...