The fruit of a palm bush that grows in the United States is called saw palmetto.The berries were eaten by Native American peoples and are still being consumed today.They're believed to have compounds that can treat urinary tract infections, benign prostate conditions, and male pattern baldness.You can either eat the berries or make a drink out of them.
Step 1: There is a saw palmetto plant growing.
The saw palmetto has a small size of 7 to 10 feet, a horizontal trunk, and a large crown of leaves.The saw palmetto bush can be found in the lowlands and savanna scrubs of the southeastern United States.In Florida, saw palmetto is very common.When the fruits are ripe, look for berries in September and October.They are ripe by their dark brown to black color.You need to find a plant that is growing on public land.If you are caught picking strawberries that are being commercially farmed, you can be fined.
Step 2: Pick a few of the black berries.
The berries can be found at the base of the palm fronds.When picking the berries, be careful.The sharp prickly frond stalks are referred to as the saw palmetto.
Step 3: Get used to the strong flavor of the berry by eating slowly.
The Saw palmetto berry is similar in size and oiliness to a black olive.They have a pit like an olive.Take small nibbles of the fruit.Remember that there is a pit if you pop the whole fruit into your mouth.The strong flavor of the berries was described as rotten cheese steeped in tobacco juice.The taste of the cheese is strong and sweet.
Step 4: Put 1 quart of dried saw palmetto berries in a mason jar.
You can buy dried saw palmetto berries at your local health food store.The berries are chopped into small pieces.Cut the berries into quarter pieces or smaller.
Step 5: Grain alcohol should be used to cover the berries.
80 or 100 proof alcohol can be used.Check the label if the alcohol is made from grain.Don't worry about brand name, just get the cheap kind.Shake the mixture for 30 seconds when the jar is full.You can use apple cider vinegar as an alternative to grain alcohol.
Step 6: The jar needs to be labeled and date.
Make a note of the contents and the date by putting a label on the jar.If you plan on making a lot of tinctures at a time, this is important.
Step 7: For 6 weeks to 3 months, steep the mixture in a dark place.
Shake the mixture twice a day for the first two weeks.Let it sit.The alcohol will extract the properties of the berry over time.The stronger the tincture is, the longer you let it sit.There is no benefit after 3 months.
Step 8: Take the liquid from the berries.
Pour the mixture through a strainer into a bowl to catch the liquid.The berries should be discarded.Store the liquid in a dark bottle.You can buy bottles with droppers online or at a health food store.
Step 9: It's a good idea to take a few spoonfuls of the tincture a day.
It can be used for a variety of diseases, including treatment for enlarged prostrate, male pattern baldness, and urinary tract infections.It is important to see a doctor for specific symptoms to rule out serious conditions.
Step 10: The water needs to be boiled for one cup.
Turn the burner to high when you put the water in the tea kettle.Wait for a full boil and pour it into your cup.It is best to make your tea with fresh water.Water that has already been boiled should not be used.
Step 11: There is a tea ball with dried palmetto saw berries in it.
You can buy dried saw palmetto berries at the health food store.The berries are chopped into small pieces.Cut the berries into quarter pieces or smaller.Place the tea ball in the water.
Step 12: Allow the palmetto saw berries to steep.
Wait at least 30 minutes.The stronger your tea is, both in flavor and strength, the longer you steep.
Step 13: Take the tea to your liking.
If you're tasting saw palmetto tea for the first time, don't add anything.Saw palmetto berries are both sweet and stinky.You can use sugar, honey, or milk to create a flavor that you will like.