"What is a Tincture?" Explained

Yarrow, a great herb 
for Women's Health

There are many ways to use herbs for medicinal purposes and one of the is in a tincture.  Other uses include consuming in food, salves, herbal vinegar and herbal oils, teas and even syrup.  I thought I would start with Tinctures because it is quite simple and easy to use.




From squidoo:  What is Menstruum?
Menstruum is general vodka, when making a true herbal tincture. Vinegar can be used, it is safer than alcohol, but is less effective at leaching out the medicinal components of the plant. When tincturing dried herbs, water is mixed with the vodka or alcohol. The ratio of vodka or vinegar to water depends on the plant material being used. For that reason, I always recommend consulting a recipe specifically for the herb being tinctured.

An herbal tincture is simply an herbal extract.  Herbal remedies have been used throughout history to treat illnesses and ailments without "modern medicine" and pharmacueticals.  Tinctures are easy to make, home remedies.  If properly prepared and stored, your tincture will last indefinitely.

I used whole flower Chamomile from Doc's Herbal Tea

You'll need:  A clean jar, vodka or everclear, herb(s), measuring cups and/or scale, labels and cheesecloth or strainer.  If you don't have a strainer you can use a funnel with a coffee filter.

The best way to use liquid herbal tinctures is to put the suggested amount in a glass of water, tea, or juice and drink the entire contents.  You can just consume straight but some tinctures can be a little stout or spicy (like the cayenne).

Single herb tinctures use only 1 herb variety.  Combination tinctures are a blend of specific herbs used for a specific purpose.  I prefer to use homegrown herbs as often as possible.

Helpful Links to learn more about plants and tinctures:

Benefits of Herbs

Buy Heirloom Herb Seeds

Cayenne Tincture

Homemade Chamomile Tincture

Fresh Basil Tincture
Cayenne and Lemon "Immunity Juice"
Herbal Preparation

I am currently working on an Allergy tincture.  
I used 1 ounce of  Doc's Allergy Tea from Doc's Herbal Tea.  I'm not at the stage in my life for the "Flashes" Tea but I'll be making up a batch for a friend.  Stay tuned!