How to Make a Tincture Using Glycerin (Glycerite)

Overview

A glycerite is a tincture made using vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. Glycerin-based tinctures are great for children, alcohol-sensitive individuals, and those looking for a sweeter alternative. While glycerin does not extract as many medicinal compounds as alcohol, it is effective for flavonoids, tannins, mucilage, and some alkaloids.

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Materials Needed

• Dried or fresh herbs (e.g., chamomile, elderberry, echinacea)
• Vegetable glycerin (food-grade, organic if possible)
• Distilled water (for dilution)
• 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 and Prepare Your Herb

• Dried Herbs: Crush or grind for better extraction.
• Fresh Herbs: Chop finely; if juicy, let them wilt overnight to remove excess water.

2. Determine the Glycerin-to-Water Ratio

Glycerin is thick and must be diluted with water for better extraction:

• For dried herbs: Use 60% glycerin + 40% distilled water.
• For fresh herbs: Use 80% glycerin + 20% distilled water (less water since fresh herbs contain moisture).

3. Determine the Herb-to-Glycerin Ratio

• Dried herbs: Use a 1:5 ratio (1 part herb to 5 parts glycerin mixture).
• Fresh herbs: Use a 1:2 ratio (1 part herb to 2 parts glycerin mixture).

Example:

• If using 100g dried herb, add 500ml of glycerin/water mix.
• If using 100g fresh herb, add 200ml of glycerin/water mix.

4. Combine Ingredients

• Place the herbs in a clean glass jar.
• Pour the glycerin-water mixture 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 glycerite.

7. Bottle and Store

• Transfer the glycerite into dark glass dropper bottles.
• Label with herb name, glycerin percentage, date, and ratio.
• Store in a cool, dark place; glycerites last 1–2 years.

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Dosage & Use

• General dose: 1–2 dropperfuls (30–60 drops) in water or tea, 2–3 times daily.
• Children’s dose: ½ adult dose, diluted in water or juice.
• Adjust as needed based on the herb and individual needs.

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Final Notes

• Use food-grade vegetable glycerin (never synthetic or soap-grade).
• Glycerites are sweeter than alcohol tinctures, making them more palatable.
• For a stronger extraction, try the warm maceration method (keep the jar in a warm water bath for a few hours weekly).
• Label everything clearly for safety and reference.