Warm Purgative Tincture (Historical Medicinal Preparation)
A historical medicinal tincture made with senna leaves, caraway seeds, cardamom, and raisins macerated in brandy. This recipe is presented for historical interest only and should not be prepared or consumed without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Senna is a powerful laxative with potential side effects.
Ingredients
- 3 ounces Senna leaves (Approximately 85 grams. WARNING: Senna is a powerful laxative. Do not use without medical supervision.)
- 3 drachms Caraway seeds, bruised (Approximately 10.5 grams or 2 teaspoons)
- 1 drachm Cardamom seeds (Approximately 3.5 grams or 3/4 teaspoon)
- 4 ounces Raisins, stoned (Approximately 113 grams or 3/4 cup)
- 2 pints Brandy, best quality (Approximately 950 ml or 4 cups)
Instructions
- 1Bruise the caraway seeds using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. Remove stones from raisins if not already done. Measure out all ingredients.
- 2Place the senna leaves, bruised caraway seeds, cardamom seeds, and stoned raisins into a large glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- 3Pour the brandy over the ingredients in the jar, ensuring all plant materials are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
- 4Place the sealed jar in a warm location (such as near a radiator or in a warm cupboard, maintaining approximately 75-85°F or 24-29°C). Allow to macerate for 14 days, shaking the jar gently once daily.
- 5After 14 days, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer lined with coffee filters into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids. Store the filtered tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
