An herbal tincture is a concentrated liquid extract made from one or more herbs. It is prepared by soaking parts of herbs in alcohol, vinegar or glycerin for several weeks. The soaking process helps extract the active compound of the herbs. The preservation of active elements of herbs assured potency and the ability to allow herbs to enter the bloodstream faster has made a herbal tincture a more effective solution when compared to herbal capsules or herbal powders. However, since tinctures can be extracted by using alcohol, apple cider vinegar or glycerin, learning more about what each one has to offer can play an essential role in helping choose the best herbal tinctures.
1: The Powerful Solvent
Alcohol-based tinctures are considered to be an excellent solvent for herbs as they can extract active ingredients and compounds that not water-soluble, such as resins, essential oils, and alkaloids. Also, since it is a natural, organically available solvent, alcohol effectively extracts some herbs, such as berries, barks, roots, and non-aromatic seeds. Vinegar and glycerin are a weaker solvent than alcohol and extract with a less powerful liquid, delivering a less- effective product.
2: Versatility
The bitter flavors of plants coupled with the high alcohol content in tinctures can make it a bit difficult for you to get used to herbal tinctures with alcohol. They are usually taken under the tongue or with hot water, honey or lemon. Vinegar based tinctures have a broader range of use when compared to alcohol-based tinctures. A safe option for children who do not consume alcohol or for adults who do not consume alcohol due to moral issues or chemical dependency, vinegar tinctures can be used as a dressing over salads or cooked greens or combined with other ingredients as drinking vinegar. Glycerin tinctures or glycerites have a sweet taste to them and can make bad tasting herbs taste good.
3: Shelf Life
Alcohol is an effective preservative. As a result, herbal tinctures with alcohol have virtually had an unlimited shelf – life. Refrigeration is not required. Vinegar tinctures have a short life (1-2 years) and require refrigeration. Glycerin has anti- fermentative properties. As a result, glycerin-based herbal tinctures have a shelf- life of 12- 24 months. For best results, it highly recommended that you store the tinctures in a cool, dark place.
Herbal tinctures make it easier to consume fresh plant medicine. Buying the best herbal tinctures is one of the most effective means of taking herbal medicine to improve overall health and stay fit for life.
