Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make your herbal products and what makes them different?
All of my salves, balms, butters, and creams are made with ethically wildcrafted whole herbs from contaminant-free areas, organically grown in my personal garden, or sourced from an organic producer. All of my oils are infused with herbs for four to six weeks at a time away from the sun for a deep slow and patient infusion of each plant's herbal properties.
What is an herbal tincture?
A tincture is a whole plant extracted into a liquid carrier (in this case, organic cane alcohol).
How do I brew my loose-leaf tea?
Use one tablespoon of herb per eight ounces of water. You can brew directly in the tea cup or a mason jar and strain the herbs or we like to use a french press for easy cleanup. Simply add your herbs, pour over boiling water, cover, and steep for 10-15 minutes. Add honey or maple syrup if desired.
When do dried herbs and teas expire?
Dried herbs and teas lose potency over time; we recommend using them within six months to a year.
When do tinctures and tonics expire?
Tinctures retain their potency for three to five years or more.
When do salves expire?
Salves will typically store for up to one year. Toss out if you see any sign of mold.
When do oils expire?
Herbal oils will last six months to a year if stored properly in a cool dark place or the refrigerator.
When do oxymels, glycerines, and vinegars expire?
Herbal oxymels, glycerines, and vinegars are best when used within one to two years.
What size tincture, oxymel, or tonic is best for me?
A 1-ounce bottle should be used for acute issues such as headaches, stomach aches, and a cold. Such as our Mindbender migraine tincture, Be Here Now anxiety blend, and Sleep in the Stars sleep aid.
A 2-ounce bottle is the best choice for adaptogens and tonic herbs that are taken daily to support major functions of the body. These include Reishi & Chaga tincture, Milky Oats tincture, and Tulsi Holy Basil tincture.
How do I determine the dosage for children?
To determine the dosage for a child, divide the suggested dosage accordingly. For example, a 30 lb. child would take one-fifth of an adult’s dosage. Therefore, a 25-50 drop suggested dosage would become 5-10 drops. For babies, dosages may be as low as 1-3 drops. Extracts are best taken in water, tea, or juice.
Do you carry non-alcoholic tinctures?
Yes. We carry a variety of oxymels and glycerine-based tinctures. See current offerrings here.
Are there essential oils in your products?
Very sparingly. We use a few drops in some of our external products such as Ripple lotion and salve, Sage and Spirit smudge spray, and Help On the Way salve. We limit our use for sustainability purposes. We understand that the vast amount of plant material required to produce a single drop of essential oil is more than you could ever naturally encounter.
What benefits are there to signing up for the newsletter?
By providing your email to receive our monthly newsletter, you will be the first to hear about the newest products, upcoming sales, and other news regarding Appalachian Alchemy. You gain access to exclusive discounts, DIY recipes, and notifications regarding medicine-making workshops both in person and online.
How do I place a local pick-up order?
Order on the website as you normally would and choose local pick-up instead of shipping during checkout.
Are Appalachian Alchemy products located in any retail stores?
Atlantis
242 E Main Street, Johnson City, TN
Asheville Dispensary
919 Haywood Rd #111, Asheville, NC
Asheville Dispensary - Chattanooga
202 Manufacturers Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Bristol Health Food Store
1600 Edgemont Ave, Bristol, TN
CDR Frame Shop & Art Gallery
1026 Commonwealth Ave, Bristol, VA
Massage Essentials
829 Sullins St, Bristol, VA
Golden Lotus Massage
113 E Unaka, Johnson City, TN
Vision Salon & Day Spa @ The Sessions Hotel
833 State St Suite 140, Bristol, VA
What is Appalachian Alchemy's shipping policy?
Most of our orders are sent out within four to six business days from the date of purchase. If you ever need an item by a certain date, please contact us ahead of time and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Email us at lesley@appalachianalchemy.com.
Can I make a change to an order I already placed?
If the order has not shipped then we will try our best to accommodate you. Email us at lesley@appalachianalchemy.com.
Does Appalachian Alchemy make custom orders?
Yes. We love to customize special gift boxes, formula blends, and more. Email us at lesley@appalachianalchemy.com
What is Appalachian Alchemy's return policy?
If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, contact us within 7 days of receiving your package and we will do our best to make it right.
Would Appalachian Alchemy collaborate with us?
If you are interested in collaborating with us on a project, event, or workshop please email lesley@appalachianalchemy.com.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.