Updated April 2025. Reviewed by Dr. Judith Thompson, ACHS Dean of Herbal Medicine
Experiencing stress or fatigue can take a toll on overall well-being. Herbal tinctures offer a natural and effective way to provide support. If you don’t have any on hand or aren’t sure how to get started, we’ve got you covered. Herbal tinctures are an essential part of any herbal medicine cabinet and a simple DIY project to create at home. If you’re not familiar with tinctures, think of them as the concentrated liquid form of herbs, packed with powerful benefits in a few drops. Here’s a quick overview of what you should know about herbal tinctures before you get started.
Tincture Facts
- You can tincture any part of the herb, including the roots, leaves, flowers, stems, or seeds.
- Tinctures extract an herb’s chemical constituents using alcohol, vinegar, or vegetable glycerin.
- Alcohol is the most effective and most commonly used base, but vinegar is a great replacement, especially when making tinctures for kids.
- When creating an alcohol-based tincture, ethyl alcohol must be used (e.g., vodka). Isopropyl or methyl alcohol is for topical use only, as they are toxic if ingested.
- Vegetable glycerin can be used, but it does not extract as many constituents as alcohol.
- Tinctures can be stored for extended periods of time. Alcohol-based tinctures are strongest within the first two years of preparation and will last indefinitely, while tinctures made with apple cider vinegar can last for about six months.
- Different botanicals need varying alcohol concentrations for extraction. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), for example, requires only 60% alcohol. If using 90%, you can dilute it with 30% distilled water to save money while ensuring effective extraction.
- Alcohol over 75% extracts resins, alkaloids, and essential oils efficiently but may not be suitable for all herbs. 40% vodka works well for herbs with primarily water-soluble constituents such as tannin rich plants. For herbs requiring 50% alcohol, if you only have vodka, you can fortify it with higher-proof alcohol, or extend the extraction time while ensuring regular agitation.
- In some states, you cannot purchase pure grain alcohol. If that applies to you, use vodka or something similar. Some herbalists have prepared tinctures with white rum, brandy, or even sake!
Basic Tincture Recipe
Let’s get started! The basic tincture recipe is:
- 1 ounce dried powdered or chopped herb OR 2 ounces fresh herbs
- 1 pint alcohol (such as vodka) OR vinegar
To prepare a tincture, combine the herb with alcohol or apple cider vinegar in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, such as a canning or preserving jar. Make sure all parts of the herb are completely submerged in the liquid. Store the jar in a room temperature location, away from direct sunlight, for approximately two to three weeks. Gently shake the mixture 2-3 times daily.
After two to three weeks, strain the tincture using a filter such as pharmaceutical filter paper, a coffee filter, cheesecloth, or muslin. It may be necessary to strain the liquid multiple times to remove all herb solids.
A Note on Tincture Preparation: Extraction time for different herbs varies depending on the plant material and the percentage of alcohol needed. Most above-ground plant parts need about 40% alcohol and will extract quickly. Tougher roots and rhizomes typically need a higher percentage of alcohol (60 – 80%) and a longer time to extract.
Store the finished tincture in a dark bottle or cupboard. The typical recommended dosage is 20-40 drops three times per day, although this changes depending on the herb. To consume, the tincture can be consumed directly in the mouth or diluted in approximately ¼ cup of water for a milder taste.
Start crafting your own tinctures today with high-quality supplies from the Apothecary Shoppe, the official store of ACHS.
A Versatile Herbal Remedy
Tinctures are easy to make and quick to use, which makes them an herbal medicine cabinet must-have! They’re also a great alternative for non-tea lovers to still get the medicinal benefits of herbs. They can even be used topically in water for bathing wounds, soaking feet, or in a bath. Keep in mind that if you use fresh herbs to prepare a tincture, double the quantity of listed dried herbs amounts. For example, use two ounces of fresh herb in a recipe that calls for one ounce of dried herb. Another formula is to add one part herb to five parts of alcohol.
Herbal Infusions
Want to try an herbal DIY, but looking for less of a commitment? Try creating an herbal infusion. Infusions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, like an herbal tea but stronger. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, helping to promote hydration, healthy digestion, and support stress. Herbal infusions are milder than tinctures. Also, unlike a tincture, an infusion should be used immediately.
Interested in learning more about herbal medicine? Explore ACHS Herbal Medicine certificates, diplomas, and degree programs today!
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
