I totally relate to being nervous about making stuff at home. I tried a simple chamomile tincture once, thinking it would be easy, but it ended up tasting so bitter I couldn’t even use it. I just dumped it and felt kind of silly, but at least nothing exploded. Have you ever worried about using the wrong kind of alcohol or oil for these things? That part always trips me up.
I get what you mean about worrying over the alcohol or oil. I tried making a peppermint oil once, and I swear it smelled like toothpaste mixed with old socks. My daughter said it was “earthy,” but I think she was just being nice. I ended up using it to clean my dentures instead of for anything edible—worked better than expected, honestly.
I do always double-check what kind of alcohol I’m using, though. My neighbor once grabbed rubbing alcohol instead of vodka for a tincture... let’s just say that batch never left the garage. I stick to cheap vodka from the store. As for oils, I usually go with olive or coconut because I know what they taste like. If something comes out too strong or bitter, sometimes diluting helps, but if it’s really off, I just chalk it up as a learning experience. At least you didn’t blow up the kitchen—small wins, right?
Totally get the denture cleaning hack—sometimes those “oops” moments turn out useful. I once tried infusing clove oil for mouth rinse and it ended up tasting like spicy furniture polish. Didn’t dare use it, but my retainer case never smelled fresher. Guess trial and error’s part of the fun... or at least the weird smells.
