How to Make a Tincture Using Alcohol

Overview

A tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made using alcohol as a solvent. Alcohol effectively extracts alkaloids, flavonoids, volatile oils, and other medicinal compounds, making tinctures one of the most potent and long-lasting herbal preparations.

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Materials Needed

• Dried or fresh herbs (e.g., echinacea, chamomile, valerian root)
• High-proof alcohol (80–95% ethanol, such as vodka, rum, or Everclear)
• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Measuring scale or cup
• Knife or mortar & pestle (for fresh herbs)
• Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
• Dark glass bottles with droppers
• Label and marker

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Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose Your Herb and Prepare It

• Dried Herbs: Chop or crush to increase surface area.
• Fresh Herbs: Chop finely; if juicy, let them wilt overnight to remove excess water.

2. Select the Right Alcohol Strength

The type of alcohol you use depends on the herb:

• 40–50% (80–100 proof vodka) – Good for soft herbs (leaves, flowers).
• 60–70% (120–140 proof alcohol) – Best for tougher materials (roots, bark).
• 85–95% (170–190 proof Everclear) – Best for resins and gums; dilute before use.

3. Determine the Herb-to-Alcohol Ratio

• Dried herbs: Use a 1:5 ratio (1 part herb to 5 parts alcohol by weight).
• Fresh herbs: Use a 1:2 ratio (1 part herb to 2 parts alcohol by weight).

Example:

• If using 100g of dried herb, add 500ml of alcohol.
• If using 100g of fresh herb, add 200ml of alcohol.

4. Combine the Ingredients

• Place the herbs in a clean glass jar.
• Pour the alcohol over them, ensuring they are fully submerged.
• Seal the jar tightly and shake well.

5. Let It Macerate

• Store in a dark, cool place for 4–6 weeks.
• Shake the jar once daily to help extraction.

6. Strain and Filter

• After maceration, strain the mixture using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
• Press the plant material to extract all liquid.
• Optional: Filter through a coffee filter for a clearer tincture.

7. Bottle and Store

• Transfer the tincture into dark glass dropper bottles.
• Label with herb name, alcohol strength, date, and ratio.
• Store in a cool, dark place; tinctures last 5+ years.

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Dosage & Use

• General dose: 1–2 dropperfuls (30–60 drops) in water or tea, 2–3 times daily.
• Adjust as needed based on the herb and individual needs.

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Final Notes

• Use food-grade alcohol only (no rubbing alcohol).
• For alcohol-free versions, substitute glycerin for a glycerite tincture.
• Dilute high-proof tinctures in water before consumption.
• Label everything clearly for safety and reference.