Making Herbal Tinctures

Herbal tinctures are more powerful and last longer than dried herbs. And the good news is: making tinctures is easier than you think.

Basically, a tincture is made by soaking a measured quantity of fresh or dried herb in a solvent.

Two major solvents used in herbal tinctures are alcohol and glycerin.

Generally speaking, alcohol can extract more of the herbs' active ingredients than glycerin. However, some animals may not like the taste of alcohol. Moreover, alcohol may cause allergic reaction or stomach irritation to some animals.

For use in dogs, therefore, it may be better to use the glycerin tinctures. They can be added to the dog's drinking water or even his food.

How to Make Herbal Tinctures

Items Needed

Dried or fresh herbs in powdered or cut form
40 percent alcohol, e.g. gin or brandy (DO NOT use rubbing, isopropyl or wood alcohol) OR glycerin
Wide-mouthed glass jars with lids
Unbleached cheesecloth

Directions

Add the amount of herb you desire into the glass jar.
Add either alcohol or glycerin until the herbs are entirely covered.
Seal the jar tightly.
Store the jar in a dark area for 2 weeks.
Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and store the liquid in another jar or dark colored tincture bottle.
Close the storage container with a stopper or cap.
Don't forget to label the tincture with the date, the herb and solvent used!
Store the tincture in a cool dark place. (Glycerin tinctures will keep longer in the fridge.)

Dosage to be Administered to Dogs

How much of an herbal preparation should be given to your dog depends on his size.

For dogs that are:

1 to 10 pounds, add 1 to 3 drops of a tincture to their food or water, 2 to 3 times a day.
11 to 20 pounds, add 3 to 5 drops of a tincture to their food or water, 2 to 3 times a day.
21 to 50 pounds, add 5 to 10 drops of a tincture to their food or water, 2 to 3 times a day.
51 to 100 pounds, add 10 to 20 drops of a tincture to their food or water, 2 to 3 times a day.

Get herbs (fresh and dried) and tinctures from:

Related Topic

Making Herbal Remedies

References

R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).

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Information on this site is for educational purpose only.
It is not intended to replace the advice and treatment of a veterinarian.
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