Go Back
Two amber dropper bottles with lavendar.

How to Make an Herbal Tincture

Learn how to make herbal tinctures right at home using alcohol or glycerine with this simple DIY guide.
3.50 from 2 votes
Print Pin
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Steeping Time: 28 days
Total Time: 28 days 5 minutes
Author: Carolyn Thomas

Equipment

  • Glass Jar with airtight lid
  • Dark Glass Dropper Bottles optional

Ingredients

  • herb of choice see list of options below
  • alcohol (80-proof or higher) or glycerin, enough to cover the herbs

Instructions

  • Decide what kind of tincture you would like to make. You can use one herb or a mixture of herbs. It depends on the type of properties and medicinal purpose you want your tincture to have.
  • Leave delicate herb leaves and flowers whole but chop any large leaves, roots, or flowers into smaller pieces.
  • Place the plant parts into your small glass jars. Filling the jar about ⅓ of the way is a good amount to start with.
  • Pour the alcohol (or glycerine) over the herbs, making sure the herbs are completely covered. Filling the jar approximately 2 inches over the herbs will do.
  • Place the airtight lid on the jar and give it a good shake.
  • Label the jar with the herbs used, the kind of alcohol (or glycerine) used, and the date made.
  • Put the jar in a room temperature, dark place for 4-6 weeks.
  • Check on your jars weekly, giving them a good shake. Be sure the alcohol is still fully covering the herbs. If needed, you can add more alcohol.
  • After 4-6 weeks, strain the alcohol, making sure to squeeze all the liquid from the herbs.
  • Using a funnel, pour the liquid into the dark glass jars for storage.
  • Make sure to properly label the tincture bottle with the name, alcohol (or glycerine) used and the date it was bottled.
  • Store in a cool, dark place, such as a medicine cabinet or shelf in your pantry.

Notes

Here is a general list of common herbs used to make tinctures in no particular order. 
  • Lavender – Good for calming, easing anxiety, and helping with insomnia.
  • Yarrow – This is the best herb in the world for bleeding! It’s also great for respiratory health. 
  • Arnica – This is excellent at reducing inflammation. Use it to reduce pain and swelling from muscle aches/tension, bruises, bumps and even arthritis. 
  • Echinacea – Great for boosting your immune system or winter cold and flu prevention.
  • Hops – This is very helpful for soothing an upset stomach. But it also has antibacterial properties, making it good for infections in the gut.
  • Lemon Balm – Great for boosting the immune system, calming anxiety and stress, and promoting restful sleep. It also can be applied topically to kill the herpes virus (cold sores, shingles).
Tried this recipe?We want to see! Tag @homesteadingfamily on Instagram.