How to Make Your Own Alcohol-Based Tinctures

Tinctures are distilled botanical extracts which have been dissolved in alcohol. It is a popular misperception that tinctures and extracts are just the same thing; however, not all extracts are tinctures, and not all tinctures are extracts!

The quantity of herb infused in alcohol or glycerin solution is the primary distinction between tinctures and extracts. Extracts are made by combining one part herb with one part glycerin or alcohol, whilst tinctures are made by combining one part herb with three parts alcohol or glycerin. One is not superior to the other; tinctures are simply more concentrated botanical extracts. Herbalists choose neutral alcohols such as vodka for alcohol-based tinctures to enable the flavor of the herb to come through.

Ensure the Proportions of Herb are Correct

The first thing to check is that you have enough ingredients in your botanical infuser machine. It's all about proportions in this case. The tincture would be weak if you are using too little. If you are using too much alcohol, the amount of plant essence obtained from your herbs would be inadequate. The optimal alcohol grade and amount of plant matter to use may vary depending on what you're tincturing.

Understand the Alcohol Type and Strength

When preparing your own alcohol-based tinctures, it's critical to use high-quality alcohol, especially because it will absorb a lot of the solution. While any spirit can do, many herbalists choose alcoholic solvents like grain alcohol or vodka. To obtain a lower alcohol content, stronger alcohols could be dissolved in distilled water.

Another element to consider is the quality of the plant matter. This will be used to calculate the concentration needed for alcohol-based tinctures. Keep in mind that moderation is important.

Use High-Quality Alcohol

It is critical to utilize high-quality spirits when preparing your own alcohol-based tinctures. We recommend going to your local liquor shop and asking for advice from a manager. While your craft is specialized, someone knowledgeable in the subject could be able to point you in the appropriate direction.

Be Precise About Extraction

The extraction process should be accurate, and tinctures should always be covered with a lid. As some tinctures (particularly those containing aromatic herbs) can rapidly melt plastic, we recommend using a standard metallic lid with a rim.

Keep your tincture in a cool, dark, and dry place. Keep an eye on the levels of alcohol and mix it up several times a week. Add additional solvent to the container if the solvent has evaporated slightly and the plant matter is not entirely submerged. If your herbs are exposed to the environment, mold and pathogens may contaminate your tincture. Allow the tincture to sit for six to eight weeks to allow the process of extraction to complete.