How to Make a Tincture: It's Easy...
Making your own tinctures is a simple yet transformative way to bring the wisdom of plants into your daily life. A tincture is a powerful herbal remedy that's easy to make and can be used for many wellness needs. Let's walk through the steps together & unlock nature's medicine.
What exactly is a tincture?
A tincture is made by steeping herbs in alcohol over several weeks. The alcohol works its magic, drawing out the most potent healing compounds from the plant. After that, you're left with a concentrated liquid that's ready to support your well-being. It's a powerful ally for anyone looking to reconnect with nature's medicine.
Alcohol is in my opinion the best solvent to use because it pulls out a wide range of beneficial compounds, from essential oils to antioxidants. Plus, it keeps the tincture shelf-stable for years. However, if you prefer, you can also use apple cider vinegar or glycerin—just know that they may not be as strong or long-lasting.
Why use tinctures?
Tinctures allow your body to absorb plant compounds quickly and easily. When taken by mouth, they bypass digestion and are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This makes tinctures one of the fastest ways to feel the effects of herbs. Plus, they're highly concentrated, so just a few drops can offer big benefits.
How to make your own tincture
What you'll need:
- 80-proof alcohol (vodka is a good option), at least 40% alcohol
- Dried or fresh herbs of your choice
- A glass jar with a tight lid
- Dark glass dropper bottles
- Labels and pen
1. Fill your jar with herbs: Begin by filling one-third of your jar with dried herbs (or halfway if using fresh herbs). You can choose any herb depending on your needs—whether you want support for stress, digestion, or immune health, nature has the answer.
2. Add the alcohol: Pour the alcohol over the herbs until they are fully submerged, leaving about a quarter of an inch of space at the top. Stir gently with your wooden spoon to make sure the herbs are completely covered.
3. Seal and store: Close the jar tightly with its lid and store it in a cool, dark place for about 6 weeks. This is the time when the alcohol extracts the plant's healing compounds, creating your powerful tincture. Shake the jar every day to keep the process going smoothly.
4. Strain the liquid: After 6 weeks, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean glass bowl. Discard the plant material and pour the tincture into dark glass bottles to protect it from light and keep it potent.
5. Label and store: Be sure to label your bottles with the name of the tincture and the date it was made. Store them in a cool, dark place, and your tincture will last for years.
A few extra tips
Work with the rhythm of the moon: It is an ancient tradition to craft tinctures with the moon. Start making your tincture on a new moon, and strain the liquid on a full moon.
Patience pays off: While many herbs are ready after 6 weeks, some take longer. Let nature guide the process, and give your tincture the time it needs to fully release its healing powers.
Double extraction: For certain plants
like mushrooms, you may want to use both alcohol and water to extract all their
beneficial compounds. This is called a double extraction and can be helpful for
herbs with water-soluble properties.
Your journey to herbal wisdom
By making your own tinctures, you're reclaiming ancient knowledge and taking charge of your health in harmony with nature. These remedies are here to support your body's natural balance, reconnect you with your true self, and empower you to heal from within.
Feel free to reach out if you're curious or need a bit more guidance. I'm here to support you as you step into the world of natural healing.
Ready to dive deeper into Herbal Wisdom?
If this process has sparked your curiosity and you want to learn more about herbal medicine, join my Herbal Harmony Hub. In this welcoming community, we explore a different herb in depth every month, allowing you to build a deeper connection to the plants around you. You'll learn to live in harmony with the seasons and discover which herbs best suit your unique constitution.
The Hub offers a space for like-minded individuals to connect, and you'll also have the opportunity to create your own personal herbal book. Plus, get all your questions answered during dedicated Q&A sessions. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your herbal knowledge, this is a wonderful way to continue your journey with nature.
Feel free to reach out if you're curious or need a bit more guidance. I'm here to support you as you step into the world of natural healing.
