Tinctures 101: Everything Naturally Minded Mamas Need to Know About Herbal Remedies

When I first started exploring herbal remedies for my family, I kept seeing the word "tincture" everywhere. Liver Love tincture. Detox Defense tincture. Candida Cleanse tincture. But honestly? I had no idea what made a tincture different from any other supplement or why I should choose one over capsules or tea.

If you're in the same boat, you're in the right place! Let me break down everything you need to know about tinctures—what they are, why they're so effective, and how to use them for your family's natural wellness.

What exactly is a tincture?

Tinctures are liquid herbal extracts made from plants that you take orally (by mouth). They're highly concentrated forms of natural medicine designed to support specific areas of health and overall wellbeing.

Here's the simple explanation: Tinctures are made by soaking herbs in a liquid solvent—usually alcohol, but also vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar—for several weeks. The liquid extracts the active nutrients and healing compounds from the plants, creating a potent remedy.

The word "tincture" comes from the Latin word "tinctus," meaning moistened or dipped. By the 17th century, it became the term for herbal solutions—and here's a fun fact: tinctures take on the color of the plants they're made from! Hibiscus tinctures are deep purple, chamomile tinctures are golden yellow, and so on.

The three types of tinctures

Alcohol-based (Regular): The most potent and effective. Alcohol extracts a wide range of medicinal compounds and preserves them indefinitely. These contain at least 20% alcohol for preservation.

Glycerin-based (Glycerites): Made with vegetable glycerin. These are alcohol-free, have a sweet taste, and are wonderful for children. While glycerin doesn't have quite the extraction power of alcohol, it still creates a highly effective product.

Vinegar-based: Made with apple cider vinegar. These have the shortest shelf life (about one year) but offer the added health benefits of apple cider vinegar itself. Great for salad dressings too!

Why are tinctures so powerful?

St. Hildegard of Bingen, that brilliant 12th-century herbalist, understood something modern science is only now confirming: the form in which we take our herbs matters just as much as the herbs themselves.

Here's what makes tinctures special:

1. Superior absorption and faster action

This is the big one: Because tinctures are taken directly under the tongue, they enter the bloodstream much more quickly and directly than by any other means.

Our bodies can utilize about 98% of herbal tinctures, but only about 50% of capsules or tablets. Why? Because tinctures don't require your body to break down plant cellulose to access the medicinal properties. The active compounds are already extracted and ready for immediate absorption.

This means:

• Faster digestion

• Quicker action in the body (especially for acute needs like anxiety or sleep)

• Far fewer gastrointestinal side effects

• More bang for your buck

2. Higher potency in smaller doses

Tinctures contain a much larger concentration of herbs in a smaller dose. A few drops of tincture can be as effective as multiple capsules because the extraction process concentrates the plant's healing properties.

Two droppersful of tincture equals one 8 oz. cup of tea—talk about concentrated!

3. Longer shelf life

Alcohol-based tinctures have a virtually unlimited shelf life if stored in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration isn't even necessary! This means you can stock your natural medicine cabinet without worrying about expiration dates.

Glycerin-based tinctures last for years (though not quite as long as alcohol), and vinegar-based tinctures last about a year when refrigerated.

4. Convenience and versatility

You can take tinctures straight under your tongue, add them to water or juice, mix them into tea, or even incorporate them into recipes. They're perfect for busy mamas who don't have time to brew tea or for kids who won't swallow pills.

Plus, you can easily carry a bottle in your purse and have it available anytime, anywhere.

Tinctures vs. tea: What's the difference?

Many herbal companies make both teas and tinctures from the exact same herb combinations—it's just two different ways of taking them!

Choose tinctures when:

• You need faster-acting relief

• You don't have time to brew tea

• You want maximum portability and convenience

• You need precise dosing control

• You want the most concentrated form

Choose tea when:

• You enjoy the ritual of brewing and sipping

• You want the relaxation that comes with taking a tea break

• You prefer something warm and soothing

• You're using nutritive, tonic herbs that work over time anyway

Pro tip: You can combine both! Have a relaxing cup of tea at night and use the tincture during your busy day. You can even make an instant cup of tea by adding two droppersful of tincture to warm water.

Common herbs used in tinctures (and what they do)

Let me walk you through some of the most powerful herbs you'll find in tinctures and what the research says about them:

Chamomile

Commonly used for anxiety, inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual issues, insomnia, and digestive problems. Research confirms chamomile is effective for treating anxiety, healing wounds, and reducing inflammation. It's one of the gentlest, most versatile herbs out there.

Garlic

Multiple scientific studies show garlic effectively lowers total cholesterol and LDL (the "bad" cholesterol linked to heart attacks and strokes). Taking it for more than 2 months, equivalent to ½ to 1 full clove daily, shows the best results.

Ginger

Used for thousands of years to treat nausea, migraines, digestive issues, and high blood pressure. Research shows ginger breaks down gas in the digestive tract, increases movement through the intestines (helping constipation), and provides powerful digestive relief.

Ginkgo

Contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids—compounds with strong antioxidant effects that combat free radicals and decrease inflammation. Particularly helpful for cognitive function and circulation.

Valerian

The compounds in valerian root increase GABA levels in the brain, producing sedative effects. Studies show it improves sleep quality, reduces night awakenings, and increases sleep duration. Perfect for those restless nights! You'll find valerian in sleep-supporting tinctures like Sleepy Time, which promotes calm and restful sleep without acting as a sedative.

Turmeric

A powerful anti-inflammatory herb that reduces inflammation and supports pain relief. Often combined with other herbs for maximum effectiveness in formulas like Pain Potion for natural headache and muscle ache relief.

Meadowsweet

A natural source of salicylic acid (the compound in aspirin), meadowsweet soothes discomfort and reduces inflammation without causing stomach upset. It's particularly effective for tension headaches and general body aches.

Mullein

A lung tonic that's wonderful for respiratory issues. Helps with coughs, congestion, and breathing difficulties.

Echinacea

A powerful immune supporter with antimicrobial properties. Often used at the first sign of illness to support the body's natural defenses.

Elderberry

Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and quercetin, elderberry is a go-to for immune support. Elderberry has a long history of benefits for respiratory health and is one of the most researched immune-supporting herbs. I keep Earthley's Elderberry Elixir on hand year-round—it's award-winning and pairs elderberry with mullein for even better immune and respiratory support. Unlike traditional syrups, it's a shelf-stable tincture with smaller, easier doses (no more forgotten syrup in the fridge!). You can also find elderberry combined with other vitamin C-rich herbs in Vita-C for comprehensive immune support.

Milk Thistle

The gold standard for liver support. Milk thistle contains silymarin, which protects liver cells and promotes detoxification. Found in liver-supporting tinctures like Liver Love.

White Willow Bark

Another natural source of salicylic acid, white willow bark has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. It's gentler on the stomach than synthetic alternatives and works beautifully in combination with other anti-inflammatory herbs in formulas like Anti-Inflammatory.

How to take tinctures: The complete guide

Using tinctures is incredibly simple, but there are a few tips that'll help you get the most benefit:

Understanding dropperful dosing

First, let's clear up a common confusion: A "dropperful" does NOT mean the glass dropper tube is filled all the way to the top.

No matter the size of your tincture bottle or how long the glass tube is, the rubber bulb you squeeze is always the same size. The bulb determines how much liquid fills the tube, not the length of the tube itself. One squeeze of the bulb = one dropperful.

Standard dosing

For adults: The typical suggested dosage is 2 droppersful, 2-3 times per day.

For children: Dosing varies by age and weight. Always use a children's dosage guide or consult an herbalist.

For babies: It's best if nursing mothers take the tincture, which will pass to their babies through breastmilk. For non-nursing babies, consult with a healthcare provider.

How long will a bottle last?

With standard adult dosing (2 droppersful, 3x daily):

• 1 oz bottle = about one week

• 2 oz bottle = two weeks

• 4 oz bottle = about one month

Best ways to take tinctures

Method 1: Directly under the tongue (most effective) Place the drops directly under your tongue and hold for 30-60 seconds before swallowing. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 minutes afterward. This allows the herbs to enter your bloodstream immediately.

Method 2: Diluted in liquid Add drops to a small amount of water, juice, or warm water. You can add lemon or honey to disguise the taste (but never give honey to babies under one year).

Method 3: Instant herbal tea Add 2 droppersful to a cup of warm water. Heat the water first—don't microwave with the tincture already in it, as heat can weaken the herbs.

Pro tips for success

✓ Be patient - While tinctures work faster than capsules, some herbs (especially nutritive, building herbs) may take several weeks of consistent use before you see full results, much like a multivitamin.

✓ Store properly - Keep in a cool, dark cupboard (not above the stove!). You can carry them in your purse, but don't leave them in a hot car for extended periods.

✓ Check for mold - This is rare, but if you see whitish-grey blobs floating in your tincture or growing in the dropper tube, discard the product.

✓ Don't let babies suck on the dropper - They'll want to (it's what babies do!), but they could break the glass or contaminate the tincture.

Are tinctures safe for pregnancy, nursing, and children?

For pregnant and nursing women

Yes, alcohol-based tinctures are safe! One dose of an alcohol-based tincture has approximately the same alcohol content as eating a very ripe banana.

If you drank an entire 1 oz bottle at once (which you wouldn't!), it would be equivalent to one glass of wine or beer. But you're taking just drops at a time, spread over a week—the alcohol content is negligible.

That said, always check that the specific herbs in your tincture are safe for pregnancy and nursing, as some herbs should be avoided during these times.

For children

Tinctures are actually easier to give to children than pills! They only need to take small amounts, and the glycerin-based versions taste sweet.

Glycerites are wonderful for children—they have a naturally sweet taste that can make even bitter herbs palatable. Kids often don't mind taking them at all.

For those who prefer no alcohol

If you want to remove alcohol from an alcohol-based tincture, you can dissipate it by:

1. Adding the drops to a small amount of hot (not boiling) water

2. Letting it sit for 5-10 minutes

3. The alcohol will evaporate, leaving only the herb matter and water

Or simply choose glycerin-based (non-alcohol) versions from the start!

Why some herbs MUST be alcohol-based

Here's something important to understand: For some herbs—especially roots, barks, berries, and hard seeds—only alcohol can properly extract the medicinal properties.

Extracting these tough plant materials with water, glycerin, or vinegar will only result in a less effective product. It takes a powerful solvent like alcohol to pull out those deep medicinal compounds.

This is why you'll see certain tinctures available only in alcohol-base from quality companies. They refuse to sell inferior products just to offer a non-alcohol option.

Tinctures vs. capsules: Which should you choose?

I get this question all the time: "Should I take a tincture or just stick with capsules?"

Here's my honest take: Both have their place, and the choice depends on what you need.

Choose tinctures when:

• You need faster-acting relief (tinctures work much quicker)

• You want maximum absorption and potency (98% vs 50%)

• You need to adjust your dose easily (just add or remove drops)

• You have trouble swallowing pills

• You want the most concentrated form of the herb

• You need something portable for your purse

Choose capsules when:

• You want consistent, long-term daily support

• You prefer convenience and set-it-and-forget-it dosing

• You don't mind waiting longer for effects

• You want something that lasts throughout the day

• You strongly prefer to avoid any alcohol

The bottom line? Tinctures are more potent, faster-acting, and better absorbed. Capsules are great for consistent daily routines where convenience matters most.

I actually use both depending on the situation!

Why I love tinctures for my family

As a naturally minded mama, tinctures have become essential in our wellness routine for several reasons:

They work fast. When my kids are coming down with something or I need immediate support, tinctures act quickly—within 15-30 minutes in many cases—compared to capsules that take hours to digest.

They're easy to customize. I can adjust doses based on age, weight, and specific needs. Need a little more? Add another drop. Need less for a smaller child? Easy to measure precisely.

They're pure and simple. Quality tinctures contain just herbs and the extraction base—no fillers, binders, artificial colors, or mystery ingredients.

They last forever (or close to it). Alcohol-based tinctures can last indefinitely when properly stored, making them perfect for building a well-stocked natural medicine cabinet.

They're versatile. I can add them to smoothies, tea, or water for picky family members, or take them straight when I need fast relief. I keep Earthley's Infant Tummy Relief in my diaper bag for unexpected digestive issues and Earthley's Sleepy Time on my nightstand for restless evenings. And when anyone in the family starts feeling under the weather, I reach for Earthley's Feel Better Fast—it's my universal remedy for just about any minor illness.

They save time and money. No brewing required, incredibly concentrated, and cost-effective when you consider how long they last.

My favorite Earthley tinctures for different needs

After trying countless herbal tinctures over the years, Earthley has become my go-to brand for our family's natural medicine cabinet. Here's why I trust them and which tinctures I keep stocked:

Why Earthley?

• 100% clean ingredients - Absolutely no natural or artificial flavors, colors, added sugars, or top allergens

• Third-party tested - Every product is tested for heavy metals to ensure strict safety standards

• Certified organic herbs - Only the highest quality plant medicine

• Award-winning formulas - Many of their tinctures have won Mom's Choice Awards and Parent's Picks Awards

• Both alcohol and alcohol-free options - Perfect for every family's preferences

• Created by herbalists - Formulated with deep plant knowledge and real-world experience

Here's how I use Earthley's tinctures for specific situations in our family:

For general wellness & minor illness: Feel Better Fast - This is THE tincture every mama needs! It's my catch-all remedy for fever, upset stomach, discomfort, headaches, sniffles, and immune support. Instead of searching for the "best" remedy for each symptom, I start here. Unlike conventional remedies that suppress symptoms (which can prolong illness), Feel Better Fast supports your body's natural immune system so you return to normal...fast. It's alcohol-free, tastes great, and works for ages 6 months and up. This is the one I grab first when anyone doesn't feel well!

For pain relief: Pain Potion - Perfect for tension headaches, muscle aches, and general discomfort. It combines turmeric, peppermint, mullein, meadowsweet, and dandelion root for powerful anti-inflammatory relief without stomach upset. Available in both alcohol-based and alcohol-free versions!

For sleep support: Sleepy Time - This isn't a sedative that knocks you out. Instead, it promotes feelings of relaxation and calm that make it easier to fall asleep naturally. Perfect for kids who can't wind down or adults dealing with stress. We use this as part of our nighttime routine.

For immune support - Elderberry: Elderberry Elixir - This award-winning formula is my #1 immune supporter during cold and flu season. It pairs elderberry with mullein and other synergistic herbs for powerful immune and respiratory support. Unlike traditional elderberry syrups, this tincture is shelf-stable (no refrigeration needed!) and the dosages are much smaller and easier to use. I give this at the first sign of sniffles or use it daily for immune support. Safe for ages 6 months and up, available in both alcohol-based and alcohol-free (which tastes sweet and kids love!).

For immune support - Vitamin C: Vita-C - Packed with vitamin C-rich herbs including elderberry, this supports your immune system naturally. I keep this on hand during cold and flu season and rotate it with Elderberry Elixir for comprehensive immune support.

For liver health: Liver Love - Your liver works hard to detoxify your body every single day. This blend of five organic herbs supports healthy liver function and natural detoxification. I take this daily, especially when doing any kind of detox protocol. Available in both alcohol and alcohol-free formulas.

For inflammation: Anti-Inflammatory - A powerful blend that reduces inflammation throughout the body. Great for chronic inflammatory issues, joint discomfort, or general body aches. This works beautifully alongside Pain Potion for more serious discomfort.

For baby tummy troubles: Infant Tummy Relief - Specially formulated for little ones dealing with gas, colic, or digestive discomfort. Gentle enough for infants but effective. Every new mama should have this in their diaper bag!

A word about quality

Not all tinctures are created equal! When choosing herbal tinctures for your family, look for:

✅ Organic herbs - You don't want pesticides concentrated in your medicine ✅ Proper alcohol percentage - At least 20% for preservation and extraction ✅ Third-party testing - For purity and heavy metal content ✅ Certified organic solvents - Organic grape alcohol or organic vegetable glycerin ✅ Clear ingredient lists - You should be able to pronounce everything ✅ Reputable brands - Companies with transparency about sourcing and methods ✅ Wildcrafted or certified organic herbs - Grown without pesticides or chemicals

This is why I trust Earthley for our family: They check every single one of these boxes. Every product is third-party tested for heavy metals, made with certified organic ingredients, contains absolutely NO junk (no natural or artificial flavors, colors, added sugars, or allergens), and many of their tinctures have won prestigious awards from Mom's Choice Awards and Parent's Picks Awards.

When it comes to what we're putting in our bodies and our children's bodies, quality matters. I've tried many brands over the years, and Earthley's commitment to purity and effectiveness is unmatched. Their formulas are created by herbalists who deeply understand plant medicine, and it shows in how well these tinctures work.

The ancient wisdom of plant medicine

For centuries—long before pharmaceutical companies existed—our ancestors relied on plant medicine to heal their families. Tinctures have been used across cultures worldwide as a primary form of healthcare.

In fact, tinctures were the primary "drugs" listed in the United States Dispensatory all the way until 1918! Alcoholic extracts have been used in East Asian medicine for at least 4,000 years, and European and American herbal traditions relied heavily on tinctures for hundreds of years.

An estimated 80% of the world's population still uses herbal remedies (including tinctures) as part of their primary healthcare today. That's not because they're old-fashioned or ineffective—it's because they work.

St. Hildegard of Bingen taught that God placed healing properties in every plant, and it's our responsibility to learn how to use them wisely. Tinctures are one of the most effective ways to harness that healing power.

How to make your own tinctures (if you're adventurous!)

If you're interested in making tinctures at home, here's the basic "folk method":

1. Gather your herbs - Use fresh or dried, but make sure you know exactly what you're harvesting and that it's safe

2. Chop finely - The more surface area, the better the extraction

3. Fill a glass jar:

   • Fresh herbs: ¾ full

   • Dried leaves: ½ full

   • Dried roots/bark/berries: ¼ full

4. Cover completely with alcohol - Use vodka, brandy, or grain alcohol (40-70%)

5. Cover and label - Include herb name, alcohol used, and date

6. Store in a cool, dark place for 6-8 weeks - Shake every few days

7. Strain through cheesecloth - Squeeze out all the liquid

8. Bottle in dark glass bottles - Label and store in a cool, dark place

That said, I personally prefer buying from reputable companies who've perfected their extraction methods and test for safety. But making your own can be a beautiful way to connect with plant medicine!

Ready to start using tinctures for your family?

Now that you understand how powerful and effective tinctures can be, it's time to add them to your natural wellness toolkit!

I personally use and trust Earthley's tinctures for my family because they're certified organic, third-party tested for heavy metals, award-winning, and contain absolutely no junk—just pure herbal medicine the way God intended. Their formulas are created by herbalists who truly understand plant medicine, and their commitment to quality is unmatched.

Here are my top Earthley recommendations to get started:

👉 Feel Better Fast - START HERE! This is the universal remedy every mama needs for fever, upset stomach, headaches, sniffles, and general unwellness. Award-winning and perfect for the whole family (6 months+).

👉 Elderberry Elixir - Award-winning immune and respiratory support. Unlike traditional syrups, this shelf-stable tincture is easier to use and more convenient. Essential for cold and flu season!

👉 Pain Potion - Keep this on hand for headaches, muscle aches, and everyday discomfort. Available in alcohol-free!

👉 Sleepy Time - Perfect for establishing healthy sleep routines for the whole family. Promotes calm and relaxation naturally.

👉 Liver Love - Support your body's natural detoxification with this liver-supporting formula. Great for daily wellness or detox protocols.

👉 Vita-C - Vitamin C-rich herbs for comprehensive immune support throughout the year.

👉 Anti-Inflammatory - A must-have for reducing inflammation and supporting overall wellness.

👉 Infant Tummy Relief - Every mama with a little one needs this gentle digestive support for gas, colic, and tummy troubles.

Pro tip: Start with Feel Better Fast as your universal remedy, then add 1-2 tinctures that address your family's most pressing needs. As you experience the benefits of Earthley's high-quality formulas, you can gradually build your natural medicine cabinet with confidence!

Final thoughts

Transitioning to more natural remedies doesn't have to be overwhelming or complicated. Tinctures offer a simple, potent, effective way to support your family's health using the plants God designed for our healing.

Whether you're dealing with sleep issues, digestive problems, immune support needs, anxiety, or just want to build a natural medicine cabinet for your family, tinctures are a powerful tool worth understanding and using.

The convenience alone makes them worth considering—how many times have you forgotten to take your supplements because you needed water or food? With tinctures, you just squeeze the dropper, and you're done. No excuses, no forgetting.

Start small. Pick one or two tinctures that address your family's specific needs. Learn how they work for you. And remember: progress over perfection. Every step toward natural wellness matters.

Disclaimer: This post is purely informational and does not imply any evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases, nor should it substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new herbal remedies, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.