How to Make a Standard Tincture Folk Method

First, let’s talk about what a tincture is.  A tincture is when the plant matter is extracted from the plant with alcohol.  Most herbalists use vodka.  Some herbalists use Everclear or brandy.  I recommend using 100-proof vodka.  If you are like me and can’t easily get your hands on 100 proof, 80 proof will work as well.  

I love the folk method.  In the folk method, there really isn’t any measuring.  There is also no math.  This is a time to bring your intuition in.    

So here is the folk method tincture recipe: 

With fresh herbs, fill your jar all the way to the top.  Have it lightly packed.  Then fill the jar all the way to the top with your alcohol.  

With dried herbs, fill your jar halfway.   Then fill the jar all the way to the top with your alcohol.  

Then tightly put your lid on the jar and give it a good shake.  Add a label to the jar, with the herb’s name, today’s date, and when it is going to be ready.  It would be a good idea also to add where you got the herb. 

Place your tincture in a safe, cool, and dark area.  Shake it daily or every other day so it doesn’t mold or oxidize.  

If you used 100-proof vodka, your tincture will be ready to use in 4 weeks.  If you use 80-proof vodka, it will be ready in 6 weeks.  

When it is ready you can strain the whole contents or take out just what you need.  I figured out what works for me is just to take out what I need.  As long as your plant is covered with alcohol it can stay there for a while.

Put your content in a tincture bottle with a dropper. 

To use the tincture, I prefer putting my drops in a small glass of water.  Start off small, like 1 to 3 drops, and then work your way up to figure out what works best for you.  A full dropper is the largest you should go.  

Super easy to make, you just have to wait while they macerate.  

Please let me know if you have any questions.