A Guide to Herbal Tinctures: Preparation, Uses, and Benefits

I believe in the healing power of nature and the wisdom of traditional remedies. One of the most effective ways to harness the benefits of medicinal plants is through tinctures — a concentrated liquid extract that preserves and enhances the therapeutic properties of herbs. In this post, we’ll explore how to make tinctures at home, how to use them, and the ailments they can help treat.

What Are Herbal Tinctures?

Herbal tinctures are plant-based remedies created by soaking herbs in alcohol (or another solvent) to extract their medicinal compounds. This process results in a potent and long-lasting liquid that can be easily incorporated into daily wellness routines. Tinctures are an essential part of JuneAura’s holistic approach to well-being, offering a simple yet powerful way to support the body and mind.

How to Make Herbal Tinctures at Home

Creating your own tinctures is a rewarding and accessible practice. Here’s how you can do it using natural ingredients, just like I do at JuneAura.

Ingredients & Materials:

• Fresh or dried herbs (such as echinacea, chamomile, valerian, or peppermint)

• High-proof alcohol (vodka or brandy, ideally 40-50% ABV)

• A glass jar with a tight-sealing lid

• A strainer or cheesecloth

• A dark glass dropper bottle for storage

Method:

1. Prepare the Herbs – Chop fresh herbs or use dried ones. Fill a glass jar about halfway with dried herbs or ¾ full if using fresh herbs.

2. Add Alcohol – Pour enough alcohol to fully cover the herbs, ensuring a 1:2 ratio for fresh herbs or 1:5 for dried herbs.

3. Seal & Shake – Close the jar tightly and shake it well. Store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it every few days to enhance extraction.

4. Strain & Bottle – After 4-6 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean bottle, squeezing out as much liquid as possible. Discard the spent herbs.

5. Store Properly – Keep your tincture in a dark glass dropper bottle and store it in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, tinctures can last for years.

How to Use Herbal Tinctures

At JuneAura, we recommend taking tinctures in small doses for optimal results. You can place a few drops directly under your tongue for fast absorption, mix them into tea or water, or blend them with honey for a gentler taste. The usual dosage ranges from 10-30 drops, 1-3 times per day, depending on the herb and individual needs.

Popular Herbal Tinctures & Their Benefits

• Echinacea Tincture – Strengthens the immune system and helps fight colds and flu.

• Valerian Root Tincture – A natural sedative that promotes restful sleep and reduces anxiety.

• Peppermint Tincture – Supports digestion and relieves nausea.

• Chamomile Tincture – Calms the nervous system and aids relaxation.

• Milk Thistle Tincture – Detoxifies and supports liver health.

Why Tinctures Matter at JuneAura

Tinctures align perfectly with the JuneAura philosophy of harnessing natural elements for holistic healing. They are fast-acting, long-lasting, and offer a highly concentrated form of plant medicine. Unlike teas or capsules, tinctures deliver immediate benefits by entering the bloodstream quickly, making them a preferred choice for those seeking natural remedies.

By crafting your own tinctures, you gain control over the quality and potency of your herbal remedies. Whether you're looking for stress relief, immune support, or digestive aid, tinctures provide a time-tested solution for well-being.

Through JuneAura, I celebrate the art of herbal medicine. If you're interested in incorporating tinctures into your wellness practice, stay tuned for more guides, recipes, and insights into natural healing.