Echoes of the Green

What Is a Tincture?

A tincture is a concentrated liquid herbal extract, created by soaking plant material in alcohol to draw out its active constituents. It is one of the oldest and most effective methods of herbal preservation, allowing you to carry the essence and potency of a plant in just a few drops.

Tinctures are shelf-stable, powerful, and easy to dose. They capture not only the chemical compounds of the herb, but often — depending on intention and practice — its energetic signature as well.

How Tinctures Are Made

To create a tincture, herbalists typically use:

Dried or fresh plant material
A high-proof alcohol, usually vodka or brandy
A clean glass jar, labeled and sealed

The basic process:

Chop or crush the herb to expose as much surface area as possible.
Measure out your herb and alcohol using the appropriate ratio:
- For fresh herbs, use a 1:2 ratio — one part herb (by weight) to two parts alcohol (by volume).
- For dried herbs, use a 1:5 ratio — one part herb to five parts alcohol.
Place the herb in a sterilized jar and pour in the alcohol, ensuring it is fully submerged.
Seal, label, and store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks.
Shake gently each day to encourage extraction.
After steeping, strain through muslin or cheesecloth and bottle the liquid extract.

This resulting tincture contains the full range of the plant’s extractable elements: alkaloids, resins, volatile oils, and more. Alcohol acts as a preservative and a solvent — meaning tinctures can last 5–10 years or more if kept properly.

How to Use a Tincture

Tinctures are taken in small doses, usually by the dropperful. The average adult dose ranges from 10 to 30 drops (roughly 0.5–1.5ml), diluted in a small glass of water or taken directly under the tongue.

When using a tincture:

Start with the lowest dose, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the herb
Take 2–3 times per day, depending on your needs and practitioner guidance
For acute issues (like coughs or tension), you may dose more frequently in short bursts
For energetic or spiritual use, a few drops before meditation or ritual may suffice

Tinctures can be used:

For physical ailments (e.g., coughs, digestive complaints, inflammation)
As tonics, supporting the body over time (e.g., nervine or adaptogenic herbs)
In ritual and spiritual work, as anointing or ingestion before journeying or meditation

A Note on Alcohol-Free Alternatives

For those who prefer to avoid alcohol, glycerites and vinegar-based tinctures are possible alternatives. These have a shorter shelf life but can still carry much of the herb’s properties.