How to Make Tincture: Eight Easy Steps

how to make tincture

If you’re wondering how to make tincture, you’re likely already interested in natural remedies. Making your own tinctures at home is also a great way to avoid conventional medicines that come in plastic packaging. In this blog, we’ll cover what exactly a tincture is and how to make tincture. 

 

What is a tincture?

Tinctures are concentrated extracts made from soaking plant matter in vinegar or alcohol. Vinegar or alcohol are used to help pull the active ingredients out of the plants. The liquid left behind is a concentration of these active ingredients, which have powerful medicinal properties.

Tinctures have been used for thousands of years in traditional herbal medicine and some research has shown that plants do have medicinal properties. However, the US Food and Drug Administration considers them to as a supplement, which means their health effects are not well defined. 

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How to make a tincture

Tinctures take time to develop, so give yourself enough time to allow the liquid to saturate with the plant properties over several weeks. 

To make tinctures plastic free, try to source your alcohol or vinegar in a glass bottle. Check farmers markets for herbs or plant matter to avoid plastic packaging. You can also go to the bulk store to source ingredients and bring your own containers! 

Here’s exactly how to make tincture:

 

You will need:
  • 40% alcohol (vodka works great as it’s very neutral – you can also use vinegar)
  • Dried herbs
  • Glass jar with sealable lid (mason jars are great)
  • Parchment paper
  • Cheesecloth or strainer
  • Washi tape or plastic free tape to label

 

Method:
  1. Add herbs to your glass jar, filling it about halfway up. 
  2. Add enough vodka to cover the herbs and two additional inches above the herbs.
  3. If using fresh herbs, use a 1-1 ratio of herbs to alcohol.
  4. Cover the jar with parchment paper, then add the lid on top and screw it shut. You should have parchment paper sticking out on all sides. The paper protects the rubber seal throughout the process.
  5. Keep the jar sealed for four to six weeks. Shake the jar twice daily.
  6. When the four to six weeks are up, use a cheesecloth or strainer to separate the herbs and the liquid. 
  7. Store the liquid in a jar or in an old, clean eye dropper bottle.
  8. Label the tincture.
  9. When you’re ready to use the tincture, fill the dropper and place the liquid under the tongue. Hold it for a few moments, then swallow. Rinse with water to get rid of the bitter taste. Tinctures are great for adults, but do not give them to children.

 

Now that you know how to make tincture, what will you make first? Leave a comment below and let me know!

For more holistic DIY inspiration, check out my blog on making aloe products at home.

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