What is a Tincture?

Tinctures are very concentrated herbal extracts in liquid form by using either an alcohol, vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar base. It is a method of using herbs and plants, extracting their healing properties for the use of treating minor aches and pains, discomforts, ailments, illness, etc. Tinctures are more potent than using dried herbs or drinking tea. Tinctures made with alcohol have a longer shelf life, many years. Glycerine and apple cider vinegar tinctures are not as potent or strong and have a shorter shelf life. Apple cider vinegar has the shortest shelf life which is usually around 6 months to a year, refrigerated. Alcohol based tinctures are the perfect medium for extracting the medicinal properties from the herbs. The most popular solvent for tincture making is vodka, some use rum or gin but I like to use brandy. The alcohol proof should be 80 to 100 to get the most of the herbal properties into the tincture. The amount of alcohol actually consumed from a tincture is very low, like less than the percentage that's in a banana. Trust me, you won't feel a buzz from a tincture but you will feel the effects from a tincture fairly quickly. Tinctures are very easy to use and easy to make. Tinctures are a convenient way of getting medicinal benefits from an herbal extract, you can take the dosage straight under your tongue or diluted in warm water, juice or tea. You would take up to 3 dropperfuls at a time and use throughout the day as needed, maybe up to 3 times a day depending on the condition. Keep tinctures out of sunlight and extreme heat. Tinctures may need a quick shake before use and should be stored in a cool, dark place. Tinctures are good for acute situations and fast acting! I keep mine in my purse for quick access. Tinctures can be made with fresh or dried herbs, there are slightly different preparation methods used depending. I like to create my tinctures during the dark moon phase also known as the new moon and decant on full moons because the gravitational pull of the moon helps draw out the fullness of the properties of the herbs. As the moon grows so does the brew. Also, intention setting is very important while making tinctures, incorporating crystals and prayer, affirmations is an added layer for creating a powerful brew. The minimum time frame it takes for a tincture to brew and become potent is 4 weeks, you can definitely brew them longer as I do, sometimes for years. Tincture making is a fun, easy, ritualistic way to help heal via plants and herbs.