Tinctures are the most popular way to take herbs today.
But what is a tincture?
It is an extract of herbs, mushrooms or algae. Tinctures are herbs in concentrated, liquid form. A couple of drops are enough to absorb the herbs' active ingredients. You can take the tincture drops directly by dropping them into a glass of water or juice. Or why not directly in your mouth under your tongue as we do at Örtfabriken. The least possible preparation is required. They are easy to take with you during the workday or when you are traveling.
How do you make a tincture?
Örtfabriken is particularly fond of the simplicity of tinctures. Tinctures consist of basically two ingredients: herbs and a liquid that dissolves the herb's active ingredients. If we ensure that the herb is of good quality and that the liquid is as pure as possible, we get a high-quality tincture with a minimum of additives.
Yes, in addition to herbs and the liquid, you also need some time. The herbs steep in the solution liquid for two to six weeks. There is a lot of debate among the world's herbalists about what the optimal time is. Some believe that the active substances are released immediately over a couple of days, while other herbalists believe that a month is the minimum. Then there are those who let their herbs steep for a year. Örtfabriken loves slow movement , but a year is too long for us too.
Tinctures on various solvent liquids
There are several types of solvent. Of these, alcohol is by far the most effective liquid. Örtfabrikens tinctures have been made with different strengths of gluten-free alcohol depending on the type of herb or ingredient. Roots, for example, may need a higher alcohol content than flowers and leaves. The advantage of alcohol is that it dissolves certain substances (fat, resins, wax, most alkaloids, etc.) that other solvents (such as glycerin and vinegar) cannot. Another advantage of alcohol is that it provides a long shelf life. Some herbalists believe that a tincture on alcohol has a lifetime shelf life, but Örtfabriken is content with a couple of years' shelf life for our tinctures.
From a climate perspective, sustainability is an extremely important factor. Tinctures are an effective way to ingest herbs and through the alcohol we can ensure that the herbs have a longer life. We take care of the valuable plants in a responsible way and reduce waste. We can enjoy the active substances of the herb for a long time after it stood there in its glory in nature.
How do you take a tincture?
The easiest way to take a tincture is to drop it directly into your mouth. Some people choose to put it under your tongue. You can also take your tincture in some kind of drink, but don't boil it!
If you don't want to drink alcohol, boil a cup of water and drop the tincture into the cup. Wait a few minutes for the alcohol to evaporate. You can choose from Örtfabriken's own blends of tinctures, such as Happy B itters, which consist of a selection of bitter and aromatic herbs, or you can choose individual herbs in tincture form. Please contact us if you have any questions.
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What is tincture used for?
You use tinctures as a way to preserve the herb for a long time. It is a very good way to use the herbs, as you get a concentrate. I personally find the tinctures superior and I often find the herbs stronger and more potent in the form of drops.
Let me know if there is anything else you are wondering about tinctures?
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1 comment
Hejsan 😄 Det verkar enkelt och bra att använda läkeörter och tinkturer att bota sig själv med.