What is a tincture anyways? A tincture is a liquid herbal extract of a certain strength. A tincture made from dry plant material is commonly a 1 to 5 ratio of plant by weight to extracting liquid by volume. Tinctures made from fresh, undried plant material are usually 1 to 2 ratio.
How are tinctures made?
The constituents of the plant are usually extracted with a solvent that is a mixture of alcohol and water, although glycerine or vinegar are sometimes used. Some constituents are water soluble and some are only alcohol soluble. Fresh or dried plant material is steeped in a solvent for a period of time (usually measured in weeks) and then strained of plant materials. The liquid becomes a concentrated mixture of the herbal constituents.
Do tinctures taste badly?
Most tinctures taste earthy and oftentimes not bitter or strong. To cut the taste of herbal tinctures, it's recommended that tinctures are diluted with another liquid. Many people prefer to take their tincture in a small amount of water, tea, kombucha, or juice. If put in hot water and steeped for five minutes or so, much of the alcohol will dissipate. Diluting your tincture in another liquid does not take away from its effectiveness.
How to Take Tinctures
Tinctures come in a variety of delivery methods. At WishGarden Herbs, we have dropper top bottles, pump spray bottles, and jigger cups (like the medicine cups on top of over-the-counter medicines). Always follow the recommended dosage printed on the labels of your tincture. We advise adding the recommended amount to water, juice, kombucha, tea or other liquid and drink it. Herbal pros can also take the dropper, spray or jigger cup directly and swallow. Because tinctures contain alcohol, don't place the tincture liquid under your tongue as it's sensitive and could sting. Here's a quick video on how to use each delivery method of tinctures.
Why are liquid herbal extracts more effective than capsules or gummy herbal supplements?
Liquids are quickly and easily absorbed by the body. They allow you to customize your serving to best meet your needs, they are easy to swallow. Putting the drops under the tongue is the quickest way to get herbs into the system.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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