List of Tinctures and Uses

What are herbal tinctures?

A herbal tincture is concentrated liquid extract, created by soaking herbs in a solvent, typically alcohol, to extract beneficial compounds from the plant material and make herbal medicines. The process of making herbal tinctures may take several weeks, but is relatively simple in that it often involves simply soaking plants in alcohol and then extracting liquid from the herbs using a press. The resulting liquid is potent and can be taken in small doses for therapeutic effects as herbal remedies (Pereira et al., 2018).

The scientific basis for tinctures lies in extracting phytochemicals, the bio-active compounds found in plants (which can also be found in herbal teas). These plant compounds can be beneficial, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Tinctures offer a way to deliver these beneficial compounds in a concentrated and easily absorbed form; the liquid form allows for quick entry into the bloodstream, providing rapid relief or support for various health conditions.

Are tinctures herbal medicine?

Tinctures have been used in various cultures as a form of traditional herbal medicine for their therapeutic properties. They are a traditional form of herbal medicine, similar to commercial essential oils, with a history dating back thousands of years. In traditional Chinese medicine, tinctures are used to balance the body's energy, or Qi. In Western herbalism, tinctures are valued for their ability to preserve the potency of herbs and for their long shelf life.

The use of tinctures has gained popularity in modern times as people seek natural alternatives to conventional medications. They are appreciated for their ease of use, portability, and the ability to customize blends to suit individual needs. Tinctures are as varied as the wide range of plant properties that exist in nature; they be use to treat minor issues such as joint pain, bruises, spider veins, varicose veins, or even major issues such as liver disease.

What is on our herbal tincture glossary?

Our list includes a variety of herbal tinctures, each with its specific uses and preparation methods. Here's an overview of what's included:

1. Chamomile (flower): Known for treating anxiety, healing wounds, and reducing inflammation (Srivastava & Gupta, 2009). Tincture is made by steeping dried chamomile flowers in alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
2. Feverfew (leaves): Used for migraine prevention, arthritis treatment, and potential in treating cancer, pain, and rosacea (Wider et al., 2015). Tincture is prepared by combining dried feverfew leaves with alcohol and letting it sit for 4-6 weeks.
3. Garlic (cloves, root): May reduce cholesterol (Warshafsky et al., 1993), treat skin diseases, and is being studied for its potential in treating fungal or bacterial infections and cancer. The tincture is made by covering chopped or crushed garlic cloves with alcohol for 3-4 weeks.
4. Ginger (root): Reduces nausea in pregnant women and is a remedy for motion sickness (Vutyavanich et al., 2001). The tincture is made by grating fresh ginger root and covering it with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
5. Ginkgo (leaf): Used to treat asthma (Tang et al., 2007), tinnitus, improve memory, prevent dementia, and boost brain function. Tincture is prepared by combining dried ginkgo leaves with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
6. Ginseng (root): May have beneficial psychological and immune effects and can help people with diabetes (Kiefer & Pantuso, 2003). The tincture is made by slicing ginseng root and covering it with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
7. Milk thistle (fruit): Known to heal liver diseases (Abenavoli et al., 2010). The tincture is made by grinding milk thistle seeds and covering them with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
8. St. John's wort (flower, leaves): Can ease the symptoms of depression (Pietrangelo, 2018). The tincture is prepared by combining dried St. John's wort with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
9. Sawpalmetto (fruit): Traditionally used for benign prostatic hypertrophy (Petre, 2019). Tincture is made by combining dried saw palmetto berries with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.
10. Valerian (root): Can improve sleep quality (Bent et al., 2006). The tincture is made by chopping valerian root and covering it with alcohol for 4-6 weeks.

Each tincture has its unique preparation method and dosage, catering to various health concerns. This list serves as a guide for those seeking natural remedies for common ailments.

Other common plants used for tinctures

While our template already covers the 10 most popular options, there are many other plants commonly used in tincture form. Below are five other plants that are frequently utilized in herbal tinctures:

1. Echinacea: Known for its immune-boosting properties, echinacea is often used in tinctures to prevent and treat colds and flu. It is believed to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
2. Hawthorn: This plant is commonly used in tinctures to support heart health. Hawthorn is believed to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce symptoms of heart failure.
3. Licorice root: Licorice root is used in tinctures for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It is often used to treat digestive issues, such as ulcers and acid reflux, and to soothe sore throats.
4. Dandelion: Dandelion tinctures are used for their detoxifying and liver-supportive properties. They are believed to stimulate digestion, reduce water retention, and support overall liver health.
5. Passionflower: Used for its calming and sedative effects, passionflower tinctures are often taken to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and ease symptoms of stress.
6. Elderberry: Elderberry tincture is popular for its immune-boosting properties, especially during cold and flu season. They are believed to have antiviral effects, helping to reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections
7. Cannabis: Cannabis tincture are used for their potential therapeutic effects, such as pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and anxiety reduction. They can be taken sublingually or added to food and beverages

These plants are just a few examples of the many herbs out of which tinctures are made. Each plant offers different therapeutic benefits, and tinctures provide a convenient way to harness the healing power of these natural remedies.

Benefits of using herbal tinctures

Herbal tinctures offer a range of advantages for individuals seeking natural and effective solutions for various health concerns. Here are some key benefits of using herbal tinctures:

• Concentrated and potent: Tinctures are highly concentrated liquid extracts, allowing for a potent dose of the active ingredients in herbs. This concentration can lead to more immediate and noticeable effects compared to other herbal forms.
• Easy absorption: The liquid form of tinctures allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream, providing quicker relief and results. This can be especially beneficial for those with digestive issues that may hinder the absorption of nutrients and compounds from solid supplements.
• Long shelf life: Tinctures have a longer shelf life than fresh or dried herbs, often lasting several years. This durability ensures that you have access to their medicinal properties whenever needed without worrying about quick spoilage.
• Customizable doses: With tinctures, it's easy to adjust the dosage according to individual needs. Whether you require a stronger dose for acute symptoms or a milder dose for maintenance, tinctures offer flexibility in dosing.
• Convenient and discreet: Tinctures are portable and can be easily carried in a purse or pocket, making them a convenient option for on-the-go use. They can be taken discreetly without the need for preparation or equipment.
• Versatility: Herbal tinctures can be used in various ways, including directly under the tongue, mixed with water or tea, or added to food. This versatility allows for easy incorporation into daily routines and preferences.
• Natural and holistic: Many individuals appreciate the natural and holistic approach of using herbal tinctures. They offer an alternative or complement to conventional medicine, focusing on treating the body with natural substances.

Side effects of using tinctures

While these are great for natural health, herbal tinctures also have potential side effects that people need to be aware of. Here are some common side effects associated with using tinctures:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to specific herbs used in tinctures. Symptoms can include itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. For example, chamomile tinctures may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the daisy family.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Certain tinctures can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. For instance, high doses of ginger tincture might lead to stomach upset in some individuals.
• Interactions with medications: Herbal tinctures can interact with prescription medications, either enhancing or inhibiting their effects. For example, St. John's Wort tincture can interact with antidepressants and other medications, potentially leading to adverse effects.
• Dizziness and sedation: Some tinctures, like valerian root, may cause dizziness or sedation, especially when taken in large doses or combined with other sedative substances.
• Blood pressure and heart rate changes: Tinctures that affect the cardiovascular system, such as ginseng, may cause changes in blood pressure or heart rate in some individuals.
• Hormonal imbalances: Certain tinctures can affect hormone levels. For example, saw palmetto tincture is known to impact testosterone levels, which could be a concern for individuals with hormonal imbalances.
• Liver toxicity: Some herbs, if taken in large quantities or over an extended period, can have a toxic effect on the liver. It's essential to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional for long-term use.
• Photosensitivity: Some tinctures can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to an increased risk of sunburn or skin reactions when exposed to UV rays.

To minimize the risk of side effects, it's important to use tinctures as directed, start with low doses to gauge tolerance, and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Research and evidence

Science behind herbal tinctures revolves around exploring the potential benefits of herbal tinctures in enhancing immune system responses and treating various health conditions. One notable study is "Developments on drug discovery and on new therapeutics: Highly diluted tinctures act as biological response modifiers" by de Oliveira et al. (2011).

This study involved blindly testing the effects of three highly diluted tinctures produced by a Brazilian laboratory, each labeled M1, M2, and M8. They studied the tinctures' effect on immune cells in both laboratory and live animal settings. The results showed that these tinctures were not toxic to the cells and had the ability to modulate immune responses, such as influencing the production of certain immune cells and the release of cytokines, which are crucial for immune system communication.

The study found that M1 and M8 tinctures decreased the production of Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha, a substance involved in inflammation, while M1 also showed a decrease in nuclear factor kappa B activity, related to the body's response to stress and inflammation. In mice, the tinctures led to changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production, both of which are involved in immune responses and inflammation.

The findings suggest that these tinctures could enhance innate immunity and, in the case of M1, also boost acquired immunity, making them promising candidates for therapeutic interventions in conditions where the immune system is compromised. Still, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy and determine the best ways to use them in treatment.

References

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Bent, S., Padula, A., Moore, D., Patterson, M., & Mehling, W. (2006). Valerian for sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Medicine, 119(12), 1005–1012. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2006.02.026

de Oliveira, C. C., Abud, A. P. R., de Oliveira, S. M., de SF Guimaraes, F., de Andrade, L. F., Di Bernardi, R. P., de O Coletto, Le. L., Kuczera, D., Da Lozzo, E. J., Gonçalves, J. P., da S Trindade, E., & de F Buchi, D. (2011). Developments on drug discovery and on new therapeutics: highly diluted tinctures act as biological response modifiers. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-11-101

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Pietrangelo, A. (2018, June 7). St. John's wort: The benefits and the dangers. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/is-st-johns-wort-safe-080615

Srivastava, J. K., & Gupta, S. (2009). Health promoting benefits of chamomile in the elderly population. In R. R. Watson (Ed.), Complementary and Alternative Therapies and the Aging Population (pp. 135–158). Academic Press. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780123742285000081

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