About Tinctures and Glycerites
Switching from over the counter medications to herbal remedies is not something that can be or should be done overnight. While some herbs work immediately, others may take a few weeks to kick in. Some herbs make a noticeable difference in the way we feel, others work silently. Our bodies all respond to things differently. What works really well for one person may not work at all for another. Using herbal medicine is a trial and error experiment for everyone. But it’s a fun and exciting experiment. Not to mention it’s just so much better for your body.
I am not a medical practitioner. In no way, shape or form. I'm just a mom who got sick of my family being sick and decided to do something different about it. I have taken loads of courses and classes. I have spent years studying and I continue to study. But, I can only provide you with advice, information and the access to products you may not be able to or even want to make yourself. I am happy to answer any questions that I can, but I advise everyone to do your own research as well. I am, by no means, against pharmaceuticals. Some are very necessary. You just need to make the choice to do what is best for you and your body.
Herbs are a wonderful alternative, however some can be dangerous when combined with other medications you may be taking. Just like with any medicine, it is extremely important to know what you can and cannot mix. WebMD has wonderful information on drug and herb interactions.
For a brief description and explanation of the benefits of my favorite herbs, roots and flowers Click the 'Herb Information' button on the Home Page of this website.
Tinctures
A tincture is a liquid extract made by soaking herbs or other natural substances (like mushrooms or roots) in alcohol for an extended period of time. The alcohol acts as a preservative and also extracts active compounds from the plant material, making it a potent and concentrated form of herbal medicine.
Key points:
-I allow my tinctures to macerate for 8 weeks. They are shaken with love every day. What this really means is I do a little jig as I go through my tincture cabinet and shake, shake, shake. It is rare that they get shaken with less enthusiasm.
-Most tinctures use high-proof alcohol (like vodka or grain alcohol). Mine are made with either 80 proof or 100 proof vodka depending on the herb or root.
-The amount of alcohol in a tincture dose is no more than the amount in over the counter cold medicine.
-Potent: Just a few drops are typically needed due to the concentration. Suggested usage directions are on each bottle.
- Used medicinally: Common in herbal medicine for everything from sleep support to pain relief to immune boosting.
-Fast-acting: Since it’s liquid, it’s often absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, especially if taken under the tongue.
-Tinctures are NASTY. But, hey, it's medicine. It is recommended to place the drops under your tongue for fast absorption. However, adding the drops to a mouthful of water, cuts the burn and the harsh taste, but not the affect of the herb.
-Shelf life: As long as tinctures are stored properly, they can last from 5-7 years. No more restocking every year!
Glycerite
An herbal glycerite is similar to a tincture, but instead of alcohol, it uses vegetable glycerin as the solvent to extract the medicinal properties of herbs. It's a great alternative for people who want to avoid alcohol—like kids, pets, or those with alcohol sensitivities.
Key Points:
-Also shaken with love.
-Solvent: Uses food-grade vegetable glycerin
-Sweet taste: Glycerin is naturally sweet, so glycerites tend to taste better than alcohol-based tinctures.
- Alcohol-free: Ideal for anyone avoiding alcohol.
- Shelf life: Not quite as long as alcohol tinctures, but still decent (typically 1–3 years if stored well).
- Uses: Taken orally for similar reasons as tinctures—immune support, stress relief, sleep, digestion, etc.
-Glycerites are a bit gentler and sometimes less potent than alcohol tinctures, but they’re still very effective and kid-friendly.