Tinctures, what is that?
What is a Tincture?
Tinctures are concentrated liquid herbal extracts made from soaking dried or fresh plant matter to make Herbal Medicine. Tinctures are made from different parts of a plant such as: leaves, flowers, bark, berries and/or roots. This plant matter can also be referred to as herbs. Here at Quilla~Mit’a, the plant matter soaks for a whole moon cycle in alcohol or Vegetable Glycerin liquid base in a controlled temperature and engaged environment. (Engaged referred to being hand shook periodically during the maceration cycle process.) Tinctures are often used as Herbal Medicine know to bring some relief to a wide range of health issues across all ages.
What happens in the maceration process?
During a Moon Cycle period the herb soaks in a liquid based usually Alcohol, Glycerin or Vinegar, for approximately 28-30 days. This is the process of making a tincture. During this time, the liquid base is extracting (pulling out, removing) the active ingredients off the plant matter/herb and concentrates them as liquid. The amount of herb in a given amount of tincture defines the concentration of the extract. Tinctures are historically made with alcohol, but today you can also find non-alcoholic tinctures made with Vegetable Glycerin or Vinegar.
How do I take a Tincture?
Tinctures are taken orally directly from the dropper or diluted in water. Take tinctures as recommended on the label. Alcohol Tinctures can last for up to 5 years when stored properly. Vegetable Glycerin tinctures are good for 3 years. Best way to store Tinctures are away from the sun and in an environment that does not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 30 degrees Celsius.
What is the history of Tinctures?
Tinctures have been around for a long time. Our great grandmothers, our abueltias and abuelitos used tinctures as their go-to remedy for illness. Tinctures were often sought out because of its medicinal properties and because it was affordable. Many of our ancestors made tinctures at home from the herbs/plants that grew around them.
Are Tinctures safe?
Q’uilla~Mit’a Tinctures are made in high-proof alcohol or Organic Vegetable Glycerin the is commercially available and safe for consumption. One should follow the instructions on the labels while consuming a tincture. Remember, it is always best to do your own research before ingesting any form of medicine.
Is the use of tinctures legal?
Tinctures regulated by the FDA under the Dietary Supplement Heath and Education Act can be purchased in big chain stores. Tinctures can also be purchased from small business made by Herbalist and purchase without a prescription. Remember to always read the labels and do your own research before building a relationship with a specific plant.
Information:
How to make Tinctures:
https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/how-to-make-easy-herbal-infusions
References:
Medical Herbalism: The science and practice of Herbal Medicine
by: David Hoffmann
What you need to know about Herbal Tinctures
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-a-tincture
