Tinctures are made using concentrated extracts dried of fresh herbs combined with alcohol. They can be stored for a long time as their therapeutic properties remain intact.

Tinctures can be beneficial for treating various conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, menopause symptoms, indigestion, bloating and constipation.

Tinctures can be made at home, or purchased, already-made, at pharmacies or natural health stores.

Steps to make a tincture

To make a tincture you need 1 L of grain alcohol (70 to 90%) and 1 dark bottle with a lid. The steps to make a tincture are:

Sterilize a glass jar by washing it well with hot water and soap, let it dry and put it in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes.
To use dried plants, the plant must be dried in the shade or in an oven at a temperature of up to 35ºC (or 95ºF).
To use fresh plants, wash and dry them well.
Chop the plants well, using your hands or using scissors.
Place 250g of dry herbs or 500g of fresh herbs in the glass jar.
Pour the grain alcohol into the glass jar, covering the plants well.
Stir the mixture thoroughly and ensure that all the herbs are well submerged.
Close the glass jar and let it rest for 7 to 10 days in a cool, airy place, protected from light. Shake the mixture lightly once a day.
Strain the mixture using a cloth coffee strainer or paper filter.
Transfer the mixture back to the glass jar, which should be labeled with the preparation and expiration date, and the list of ingredients used.

The jar should be tightly sealed and stored in a cool place, protected from light. The shelf life of tinctures varies from 1 to 2 years.

Can you replace the alcohol?

Some options for preparing herbal tincture without using grain alcohol are to use vegetable glycerin.

Furthermore, another option that can replace grain alcohol is white wine, vodka, cachaça or gin.

Health benefits

Tinctures have different applications depending on the medicinal plant used. They can be used to treat health conditions such as indigestion, skin wounds, coughs, sore throat, stress, insomnia, skin wounds, urinary tract infections or a toothache.

Because they are made with a concentrated amount of medicinal plants, tinctures are generally stronger than teas and, therefore, should be used as directed by a doctor or medicinal plant specialist.

How to use

Tinctures are typically taken orally. Recommended doses vary depending on to the type of herb used, and the age and gender of the person. Generally, just a few few drops or 1 teaspoon of tincture (5 ml) are diluted in a glass of water, and can be taken 1 to 3 times a day.

Additionally, some tinctures, such as those made from arnica, can be used to soak compresses and applied directly to the skin.

Contraindications for use

Because they contain alcohol, tinctures are contraindicated for children, pregnant women and for breastfeeding women.

Tinctures are also contraindicated for those with a history of alcohol abuse or liver disease.

If you take any medications, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using tinctures, as tinctures can interfere with the effects of some medications.