Barbara I (and my family) have been using it for 3 years now. Tinctures are normally made with high proof alcohol because alcohol draws the medicinal compounds from the plant thereby making concentrated tinctures that are taken in small amounts. You could use another alcohol with a higher proof if you can find one. Ideally 100 proof is best. Vodka also has no flavour. Apple cider vinegar will also draw out compounds but not to the same extent but it has a strong flavour. For children I add a dropper full to a juice. .