A tincture is an extract of a plant typically dissolved in alcohol or vinegar. A key component of traditional medicine, tinctures concentrate the medicinal properties of plants, herbs, and roots into a liquid that can be easily and safely ingested. Depending on what type of herb or plant you work with, various parts can be used to create your tincture, including bark, berries, roots, and dried or fresh leaves. Common tincture plants include chamomile, ginger and cannabis.

Alcohol is typically used because it extracts active ingredients and compounds, like essential oils and resins, that aren't water soluble. Only small doses are required when taking tinctures, so the amount of alcohol ingested is negligible- the typical dose is equivalent to that of eating a ripe banana! Other solvents like vegetable glycerine or apple cider vinegar can also be used, although the extract won’t be as potent.

Tinctures are inexpensive to make and can be easily prepared at home. The alcohol or vinegar extracts the active ingredients, allowing you to utilize the natural health benefits of your plants. Tinctures are consumed by placing the extract under your tongue. This allows the tincture to enter the bloodstream in the quickest and most effective way. Use a dropper or small syringe to drip the tincture into your mouth, and hold for a couple of seconds before swallowing.