How to Use Tinctures
Using a tincture is an easy way to improve the effectiveness of medicinal herbs. As a fundamental facet of alternative medicine, tinctures are extractions from medicinal herbs that create a more concentrated dosage. Using a few household ingredients, you can easily make and use tinctures at home.
Things You'll Need
- Dried or fresh herbs 80 proof or higher alcohol Glass jar Cheesecloth or muslin
Instructions
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1
Place one-half cup herbs into jar.
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2
Pour alcohol into jar until herbs are completely covered. Vodka or rum is typically used.
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3
Shake jar. Keep jar in a cool, dark place for two weeks, shaking it well every day.
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4
Strain herbs from tincture using cheesecloth or muslin and place tincture in another bottle.
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5
Take 1 tsp. of the tincture each day at mealtime.
Using Tintcures
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Reduce high blood pressure with a tincture. Garlic, hawthorn, linden and wood betony are common herbal remedies for high blood pressure.
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Treat acne with a tincture made from calendula flowers.
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Use a echinacea herbal tincture to treat sore throats.
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Take a tincture of lemon balm, chamomile, hops, passion flower or valerian at night to cure insomnia. You may recognize these herbs from calming herbal teas.
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Try a tincture made from chamomile, willow bark, skullcap, valerian or wood betony to cure a headache.
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Tips & Warnings
Never use rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is harmful if consumed. Not all herbal remedies are clinically proven to cure certain ailments. You may wish to consult your doctor before undertaking herbal treatment. Certain herbs should be avoided by pregnant women. See "Resources" for more details.
