As both an herbalist and busy adult, I’ve come to love having a stash of tinctures on hand for accessing the power of plants quickly. Tinctures are concentrated liquid herbal extracts that capture valuable plant compounds in an easy-to-use form.
To make them at home, all you need are some herbs, a glass jar, high-proof alcohol or glycerine, and some patience. Chop or crush your chosen herbs, then cover with the liquid and allow to infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily. Strain, and it’s ready to use!
Compared to drying herbs or teas, the extraction process better captures the full spectrum of beneficial plant compounds, including those not soluble in water. Tinctures pack a potent medicinal punch in just a few concentrated drops.
They're so handy for us busy folks to take on the go or add to foods and drinks discreetly. A few droppers full can relax me before bedtime or calm my nerves before a stressful event. Plus, tinctures allow me to make use of fresh herbs year-round beyond the garden season.
Experiment with single herbs like lavender blends like an immune support formula, or craft magical “potions” from your spell ingredients. With a little time and effort, the apothecary power of plants becomes tinctured for anytime use.
Here are some highly recommended tincture recipes
Glycerite Tincture - This is one of the easiest and most versatile tincture recipes. It uses vegetable glycerin as the solvent and works well for making tinctures from dried herbs like lavender, lemon balm, chamomile etc.
To make it, combine 1 cup dried herbs with 1 cup vegetable glycerin in a mason jar. Shake well, then let it infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain out the herbs and it's ready to use. The glycerin helps extract phytochemicals and also preserves the tincture.
Alcohol-Based Tincture - For this you'll need high-proof alcohol like vodka or everclear. Combine 1 cup dried herb with 2 cups alcohol in a jar, shake periodically for 4-6 weeks. The alcohol efficiently extracts active compounds from herbs. Strain and it's ready. Works well for herbs like valerian, passionflower etc.
Dual Method Tincture - This combines glycerin and alcohol for a well-rounded extraction. Mix 1 cup dried herb with 1 cup glycerin and 1 cup alcohol. Infuse 4-6 weeks, shake regularly, strain and store. The glycerin and alcohol complement each other in extracting a wider range of compounds.
Always use good quality solvents and herbs. Label tinctures clearly and store in a cool, dark place. Start with small doses to test potency.
Are tinctures effective?
Yes, tinctures can be very effective when made properly. Here are some key reasons why tinctures are an effective herbal preparation:
• Efficient extraction - The alcohol and glycerin used in tinctures are excellent solvents for extracting a broad range of active compounds from herbs, including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, etc. This makes tinctures very potent.
• Rapid absorption - When taken sublingually (under the tongue), the active compounds in a tincture can absorb quickly into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes in the mouth. This allows for faster effects compared to digestive absorption.
• Bypasses digestion - When tinctures are taken sublingually, they enter the bloodstream directly and bypass the digestive process. This prevents breakdown of compounds by stomach acid and enzymes.
• Versatile usage - Tinctures are easy to use. You can add drops to water, smoothies, tea or take them directly sublingually. The dose can also be easily adjusted by changing the number of drops.
• Long shelf life - Alcohol-based tinctures have a very long shelf life of many years if stored properly, so you can make a large batch and use it gradually.
• Concentrated potency - Tinctures offer a highly concentrated form of herbs in an easy-to-use liquid preparation. 30 drops of tincture may equal several cups of herbal tea.
However, the quality of the finished tincture depends heavily on the herb selection, ratio of herb to solvent, extraction method and duration. But when done right, tinctures make a very effective herbal remedy.
Best types of tincture bottles to use
Here are some recommendations for the best tincture bottles:
• Glass bottles - Glass provides the best storage for tinctures. It does not degrade over time or leach chemicals. Amber or cobalt blue glass helps block light which can degrade tinctures.
• Dropper tops - A dropper top allows easy dispensing of the tincture in drops. Glass droppers are ideal as they won't degrade. Some plastic droppers may leach phthalates over time.
• Dark colors - As mentioned, dark amber, cobalt, or violet glass helps protect light-sensitive tinctures. Storing in a dark place also helps.
• Small sizes - Tincture bottles are available in sizes from 1oz to 4oz. Small bottles are great for single tincture uses like insomnia or pain.
• Larger sizes - For multi-purpose tinctures, larger 2-4oz bottles allow room to shake and mix the tincture before each use.
• Labels - Be sure to clearly label each tincture bottle with the ingredients, date made, and any usage instructions.
• Airtight lids - A sealed dropper top or lid is vital to contain the alcohol and prevent evaporation over the long shelf life.
• Multiple bottles - Having several smaller bottles allows dividing a larger batch into different dosages or usages.
Following these tips helps preserve potency and shelf life. Specialized tincture bottles can be found online or sometimes in health food stores. Dark glass with a dropper top is ideal.
My absolutely favorite tincture recipes:
Cold Relief Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried elderberries
- 1⁄4 cup dried echinacea purpurea root
- 1⁄4 cup dried ginger root
- 1⁄4 cup dried orange peel
- 1 cup vodka or brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place herbs in a glass jar and cover with vodka/brandy.
2. Seal and let infuse 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking occasionally.
3. Strain liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean jar.
4. If using honey, warm slightly and mix into tincture to improve taste.
5. Label jar and store tincture.
To Use:
Take 1mL (30 drops) diluted in water or tea, 3 times daily at the first sign of a cold.
The elderberries, echinacea, ginger, and orange peel in this recipe can help boost the immune system and fight viral infections. The herbs also contain antioxidants and have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties to help relieve cold and flu symptoms. This tincture can shorten duration and severity when taken at onset.
Digestive Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried peppermint leaves
- 1⁄4 cup dried ginger root
- 1⁄4 cup dried licorice root
- 1⁄4 cup dried fennel seeds
- 1 cup vodka or brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the dried herbs to a glass jar. Pour the vodka or brandy over them until they are completely covered.
2. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar once a day.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve into another glass jar.
4. If using honey, warm it in a small saucepan until runny then mix with the finished tincture. This makes it more palatable but is optional.
5. Label and store the digestive tincture in a cool place. It will keep for many years.
To use: Take 30-60 drops (1-2 mL) diluted in water or tea up to 3 times per day to help relieve indigestion, nausea, gas, and stomach cramps.
The peppermint, ginger, and fennel in this blend help relax the stomach muscles, reduce inflammation, and ease cramping. Licorice root coats and soothes the mucous membranes. This tincture can provide quick relief for an upset stomach when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
Bedtime Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried valerian root
- 1⁄4 cup dried chamomile flowers
- 1⁄4 cup dried passionflower
- 1⁄4 cup dried hops
- 1 cup vodka or brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the herbs to a glass jar and pour vodka/brandy over them until covered completely.
2. Seal the jar and let it infuse for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking every couple days.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass jar.
4. If using honey, warm it slightly to thin it out and mix with the finished tincture. This makes it taste better but is optional.
5. Label and store in a cool place. The tincture will keep for many years.
To Use: Take 30-60 drops (1-2mL) of the tincture 30 minutes before bedtime. Can be diluted in water or tea.
The valerian root is relaxing and eases insomnia. Chamomile and passionflower are soothing. Hops add sedative effects. This blend promotes restful sleep without morning grogginess. Use this tincture for occasional sleeplessness or take nightly for chronic insomnia.
Here is a helpful tincture recipe for anxiety relief:
Calming Anxiety Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried chamomile flowers
- 1⁄4 cup dried lemon balm
- 1⁄4 cup dried passionflower
- 1⁄4 cup dried hops
- 1 cup vodka or brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the dried herbs to a glass jar and pour the vodka/brandy over them until completely covered.
2. Seal the jar tightly and let it infuse for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking periodically.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass jar.
4. If using honey, warm it slightly and mix into the finished tincture. This improves taste but is optional.
5. Label and store the anxiety tincture in a cool place. It will keep for many years.
To Use: Take 30-60 drops (1-2mL) as needed to relieve anxiety, panic attacks, and stress. It can be diluted in water or tea.
The chamomile, lemon balm, and passionflower in this recipe have mild sedative and antidepressant properties to relieve anxiety symptoms. Hops add more relaxing effects. This blend can promote calmness without drowsiness.
Daily Protection Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried echinacea root
- 1⁄4 cup dried elderberries
- 1⁄4 cup dried astragalus root
- 1⁄4 cup dried reishi mushrooms
- 1⁄2 cup vodka
- 1⁄2 cup brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the herbs to a glass jar and cover with equal parts vodka and brandy.
2. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking periodically.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean jar.
4. If using honey, warm it slightly and mix into the tincture. This improves taste but is optional.
5. Label and store the protection tincture in a cool place. It will keep for many years.
To Use: Take 30-60 drops (1-2mL) daily to support immune health and overall wellness. Can dilute in water or tea if needed.
The echinacea, elderberries, astragalus, and reishi in this blend contain antioxidants, vitamins, and polysaccharides that can help boost immunity. This tincture can be taken regularly to promote overall health and vitality.
Energizing Purification Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried holy basil leaves
- 1⁄4 cup dried rosemary
- 1⁄4 cup dried sage
- 1⁄4 cup dried lemon verbena
- 1 cup brandy
- 1⁄2 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the dried herbs to a glass jar and pour the brandy over to cover completely.
2. Seal and let infuse for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking occasionally.
3. After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean jar.
4. If using honey, warm slightly and mix into the finished tincture. This improves taste but is optional.
5. Label and store the tincture in a cool place. It will keep for many years.
To Use: Take 30-60 drops (1-2mL) as needed for an energizing boost or before meditation. Can dilute in water or tea.
The holy basil, rosemary, and sage in this recipe are considered cleansing, purifying herbs in many spiritual traditions. Lemon verbena adds a bright, uplifting citrus flavor. This blend can help clear stagnant energy and promote a sense of renewal.
Good Luck Tincture
Ingredients:
- 1⁄4 cup dried High John the Conqueror root
- 1⁄4 cup dried Cinnamon chips
- 1⁄4 cup dried Nutmeg pieces
- 1⁄4 cup dried Orange peel
- 1 cup Brandy
- 1⁄2 cup Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the herbs to a glass jar and cover with brandy.
2. Seal and infuse for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking occasionally.
3. Strain through a cheesecloth into a clean jar.
4. Mix in warmed honey if desired for taste.
5. Label and store.
To Use: Take 30-60 drops as needed for symbolic luck. Can add to tea or dilute in water.
High John the Conqueror and Cinnamon are traditionally associated with luck, success, and prosperity. Nutmeg symbolizes good fortune. Orange peel provides an uplifting aroma.
How long do tinctures last?
Tinctures can last a very long time if properly stored. Here are some general guidelines on tincture shelf life:
• Alcohol-based tinctures: An alcohol-based tincture made with vodka, brandy, or high-proof spirits has an extremely long shelf life of many years. Some sources estimate up to 10 years or longer if kept in a cool, dark place. The alcohol acts as a preservative.
• Glycerite tinctures: Glycerites made with vegetable glycerin have a shorter shelf life of 1-3 years. Glycerin does not preserve as well as alcohol over the long-term. However, glycerites stored in the refrigerator can potentially last up to 5 years.
• Tinctures with honey: The addition of honey reduces the shelf life somewhat compared to plain alcohol/glycerin tinctures, but still provides 1-2 years stability. The honey may crystallize over time.
• Proper storage: To maximize a tincture's shelf life, be sure to store in a cool, dark location in a tightly sealed glass container away from light, heat, and moisture. Don't store tinctures in the bathroom as temperature fluctuations from shower steam can shorten shelf life.
• Loss of potency: Over years of storage, some settling of sediment and gradual loss of potency can occur. Shake well before use. If stored properly, the tincture should still retain good potency for many years.
• Watch for spoilage: Very rarely, tinctures can spoil if improperly made or stored. Watch for changes like unusual odor, texture, or mold. If spoilage occurs, discard the tincture.
With optimal storage conditions, most high-quality tinctures can remain viable for many years past their original preparation date. Shelf life varies based on ingredients and storage method.
Can you mix tinctures with food and drink?
Yes, tinctures can easily be incorporated into food and drinks. Here are some tips for mixing tinctures:
• Water - This is the easiest way to take a tincture. Just add the desired number of drops into a glass of water, juice or tea and stir briefly. The tincture will disperse evenly.
• Smoothies - Add tincture drops into your smoothie and blend briefly to distribute. The intense flavors of smoothies help mask the taste of tinctures.
• Soups or broths - Stir some tincture into soups or broths at the end. The heat will cause some of the alcohol to evaporate.
• Baked goods - For alcohol-based tinctures, add to the wet ingredients when baking to allow the alcohol to bake off. Glycerites can be added at the end.
• Salad dressings - Whisk some tincture into homemade salad dressings or marinades.
• Coffee/tea - Add tincture drops to coffee, tea or herbal infusions. The heat will reduce potency slightly.
• Alcoholic drinks - A few drops of tincture can be added to cocktails or mixed drinks. Shake or stir to incorporate.
When mixing tinctures into hot foods or liquids, some potency loss will occur due to the heat. For maximum effectiveness, add tinctures after cooking or just before consuming. Always clearly label foods or drinks containing tinctures. Enjoy infusing tinctures into your recipes!
History of tinctures
Tinctures have a long history of use for medicinal and herbal purposes:
• Ancient origins - The basic technique of using alcohol to extract active compounds from plants dates back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Early "wines" and herbal elixirs contained medicinal herbs.
• Monastic medicine - Monks and nuns in the Middle Ages further developed the art of herbal tinctures for medical uses. Many traditional medicinal tincture recipes trace back to monasteries.
• Rise in Europe - Tincture usage for health purposes rose in popularity in Europe during the Late Middle Ages and Renaissance periods as botanical science advanced.
• American adoption - European colonists brought knowledge of tinctures to America. During the 18th and 19th centuries, American medical guides included recipes for herbal tinctures.
• Patent medicines - Mass marketed "patent medicines" during the 1800s often contained high quantities of medicinal tinctures as key ingredients. This increased mainstream usage.
• Prohibition impact - The alcohol bans during Prohibition in the 1920s limited availability of high-proof spirits needed for quality tincture making. This caused a temporary decline.
• Modern revival - Interest was renewed in herbalism and natural remedies during the 1970s, spurring a tincture revival. Their popularity continues today in herbal medicine and for supplement use.
• Present day - Tinctures remain a standard method of herbal extraction for a wide range of home, medicinal, and commercial uses. Improved production methods now allow high quality and potency.
Comments