Pathways - The Journey Awaits

Making Herbal Tinctures - Down & Dirty

By: Tracy A. O'Neill

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The opinions expressed within this article are those of the author and readers are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider before incorporating the use of herbal tinctures into their daily diet.

Herbal medicines have been used since the dawn of time. They are a vital part of our heritage and when used responsibly, plants and herbs can provide us with effective long-term health benefits. There are many ways to prepare herbal remedies. However, for the purposes of this article, we will focus on one preparation: The Tincture.

For some, just the term "tincture" creates an overwhelming state of confusion. There are many herbal suppliers today offering dietary supplements and tinctures with the common disclaimer "This product has not been evaluated by the FDA". I'm not saying those supplements and tinctures are dangerous or that they don't work. What I am saying is you can make them at home at a fraction of the cost. If you grow your own herbs and spices, GREAT! But if not, you can purchase them from herbal suppliers like us, or a local organic farm. On average, our herbs sell for approximately $3.00 per ounce. Almost any herb can be used in Tincture form.

So, let's get down to basics. First of all, what is a tincture? A tincture is an ethanol based herbal extract. To create the most effective tincture you should use what is known as Pure Grain Alcohol, or PGA. It's also referred to as neutral grain spirit. PGA is a natural product distilled from common corn or cereal grains.

The most popular name brand name on the market is Everclear, which runs between $15 & $20 a bottle at your local liquor store. You can also use vinegar and water, but that requires a different herbal ratio, and we will discuss blending that composition in another article. This article will concentrate only on ethanol-based extracts. I've been told that PGA is outlawed in some states, so if for some reason your State lawmakers have deemed PGA a danger to society, you can use 100 proof vodka.

Consider investing in a coffee press. When straining herbs, you can use muslin or cheesecloth, but a decent coffee press can be found at most department stores, and even Wal-Mart for less than $20. When you press the herbs through this wonderful little invention, you have little waste and are only left with the extracted oils without the mess of muslin. PLUS you have a nifty little pour spout for the liquid! A good tincture will have a shelf life of several years.

From weights and measures, to ratios and dosage, you can find a plethora of information on how to make tinctures on the Internet. I make very effective tinctures, without the use of the metric system & scales. Here's how.

What you will need to get started

Herbs, A Fifth of PGA (you'll only use a small amount per batch, but it's good to have on hand), Mason Jars/Canning Jars with lids, 2 weeks of patience, Coffee Press, Small colored bottles (amber bottles are commonly used, but not necessary unless you are making tinctures to last a long time) & labels.

Take a large mason jar & fill it with herbs. Don't mash them. Just place them in and shake the jar so they settle a bit. Cover the herbs with alcohol. Close lid & shake. Label with herbs & date of mixture. Store in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake well every day or two to keep the oils mixed. If you notice the herbs have absorbed a lot of the alcohol, add a bit more so the herbs remain "covered". After two weeks, pour the contents into your coffee press. Press to extract the liquid and pour into bottles. A standard dose is 5mL tincture to 30mL (1 ounce) of water or fruit juice. You definitely want to dilute a tincture. Most are not palate friendly! Take three times a day. Again, store finished product in a cool dark place.

Example

Dandelion Leaf for Excess Water Weight and to Maintain Urinary Health

Although the entire dandelion from the flower to the root are used in tinctures, in this recipe only the leaf is used.

If you wish to pick your own dandelions, beware! Unless you get them from your own chemical and pesticide free yard or garden, do not, I repeat, DO NOT pick them from just anywhere. Since the average person is generally unaware of the medicinal properties of dandelions, they are sadly considered a blemish on the lawns of homeowners and city roadsides and are treated year after year with lethal chemicals. You are much better off buying your tincture herbs & flowers from a reputable supplier or start growing your own in a small patch.

Dandelion leaf is a well-documented diuretic and unlike commercial diuretics, contains potassium, which your body needs as it sheds water. This can also be used daily to promote a healthy urinary tract. Mix 1 tsp. of dandelion leaf tincture in a small shot glass of cranberry juice; drink three times a day – OR – Pre-Mix 1 part tincture to 2 part cranberry juice & store in the fridge for an entire week. Drink 3 shots a day (morning, noon & night).

Common Tincture Herbs you should keep on hand:

California Poppy – Insomnia
Damiana – Increased Energy
Dandelion Leaf – Diuretic
Echinacea – Chest Infections
Ginger Root – Indigestion
Marsh Mallow Root (Althaea Officinalis) – Indigestion, Constipation
Peppermint – Cold, Flu & Sinus
Schishandra Berries – Improved Sex Drive (men & women)
Thyme – Vitality
Valerian Root – Anxiety, Hypertension, Stress
White Willow Bark – Headaches

WARNING! Not all herbs can be taken internally and some have potentially dangerous side effects! Some shouldn't be used at all during pregnancy. Do your research before using any herbal remedy. Some tinctures should not be taken for extended periods of time. If you are currently taking prescription medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before adding herbal tinctures or remedies to your daily regime.