The Simple Power of Folk Method Tinctures
If you’ve ever wished for a way to get the benefits of herbs without brewing another cup of tea—you’re going to love tinctures.
Tinctures are one of the easiest and most practical ways to work with herbs at home. In fact, they’re my go-to method for most remedies these days. They take just a few minutes to prepare, they last for years, and they’re perfect for summer—when drinking a hot cup of tea isn’t exactly appealing.
What Is a Tincture, Anyway?
A tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made by soaking herbs in alcohol (or sometimes glycerin).
Over time, the liquid pulls out the beneficial compounds from the plant—giving you a powerful little remedy that only takes a few drops to use.
Why I Love the Folk Method For My Tinctures
There are different ways to make tinctures, but the one I teach—and use myself—is called the folk method. It’s approachable, doesn’t require math, and is ideal for the home herbalist who just wants to get started and feel confident.
You don’t need a scale, a spreadsheet, or a cabinet full of fancy tools.
Just herbs, a clean jar, and alcohol.
That’s it.
Dried or Fresh? Both Work—With a Few Tips
Tinctures can be made with either dried or fresh herbs. I often use dried, but there are times when fresh herbs are calling your name (like when the garden is overflowing).
There’s just one important tip to remember with fresh herbs:
Let them wilt for a day before adding them to your jar. This helps reduce moisture that can water down your alcohol. And for fresh plant tinctures, it’s also best to use a higher-proof alcohol—something like 151-proof if you can find it—since the plant still holds a bit of water.
That’s something I go into more detail about in my online tincture workshop, so you feel confident no matter which form of the herb you’re using.
Why Tinctures Make So Much Sense for Everyday Use
Once you have your tinctures made, they’re ready to go whenever you need them. They don’t spoil quickly like teas or infusions. They don’t need refrigeration. And they can last for years if stored properly (away from heat and light).
They’re:
- Portable – Keep a bottle in your bag or travel kit
- Potent – A few drops is often all you need
- Versatile – Use them internally (for herbs that are safe to ingest) or externally (just dilute in water)
I use my valerian tincture internally to support sleep, and I’ll also add a few drops to water and apply it externally when my back muscles are tight or sore.
Yes, tinctures can have a strong taste—but you can easily add them to a little juice, a smoothie, or water to make them more palatable. (And believe it or not, you can get used to the taste!)
Want to Try Making Your Own?
I truly believe tincture-making is one of the easiest and most empowering ways to bring herbs into your daily life. You don’t need to be an expert. You don’t need fancy equipment. And you don’t need to feel intimidated by the process.
That’s exactly why I created my self-paced tincture workshop—to help you feel confident and capable right from the start. It walks you through the folk method step by step and includes a 5 page list of herbs with their actions and their reasons for use. And remember you always have my email address if you can’t find the answer to your question.
What might you make first?
Pingback: 8 Simple Ways to Preserve your Herbal Harvest