DIY Herbal Tinctures: 10 Best Herbs and Their Benefits for Sleep, Anxiety, Detox and More

If you love natural remedies, there’s something wonderfully empowering about making your own herbal tinctures at home. Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts made by steeping herbs in alcohol (or sometimes glycerine or vinegar), capturing their beneficial compounds in a form that’s easy to use and long-lasting.

DIY Herbal Tinctures: 10 Best Herbs and Their Benefits for Sleep, Anxiety, Detox and More

Whether you’re looking to ease stress, improve sleep, support digestion or boost immunity, there’s likely a herb to help. Our guide Best DIY Herbal Tinctures will explain what tinctures are, what you need to make them, and 10 of the best herbs to tincture at home, along with their key benefits.

What Are Herbal Tinctures?

Herbal tinctures are concentrated plant extracts. You make them by soaking herbs in alcohol for several weeks. The alcohol extracts active compounds from the plant, preserving its beneficial properties and creating a potent liquid remedy.

They’re often used because they are strong, fast-acting, and have a long shelf life. A few drops in water, tea, or under the tongue are typically all that is needed. Tinctures have been used for centuries as a convenient and effective means of supporting health and well-being.

What Do You Need to Make Herbal Tinctures?

The beauty of tinctures is that you don’t need fancy equipment.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dried or fresh herbs – ideally organic, or homegrown and harvested safely.

• High-proof alcohol – vodka, brandy or rum around 40–50% alcohol by volume. For an alcohol-free version, you can use vegetable glycerine, though it’s less potent and doesn’t last as long.

• A clean glass jar with a tight lid, such as a mason jar, for steeping the herbs.

• A dark glass dropper bottle for storing and protecting the finished tincture from light.

• A strainer, muslin cloth, or coffee filter, to separate the liquid from the herbs.

• Labels – to record the herb, date, and any details you want to remember.

Optional but useful extras include a small funnel for easy pouring, a measuring jug, and gloves if you’re handling strong or staining herbs.

How to Make a Basic Herbal Tincture

1. Chop the herbs and place them in the glass jar.

2. Cover with alcohol, ensuring the herbs are fully submerged.

3. Seal the jar and store it in a dark, cool place for four to six weeks, shaking it gently every few days.

4. Strain the liquid through muslin or a coffee filter into a clean bottle.

5. Label the bottle with the herb's name, the date, and any relevant notes.

10 Best Herbs to Use in Tinctures

1. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Best for: sleep, calming nerves, digestive comfort

Chamomile tincture is gentle yet effective, perfect for winding down before bed or soothing an upset stomach. A few drops can help ease anxiety and promote restful sleep.

2. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Best for: anxiety, mood uplift, focus

Bright and citrusy, lemon balm helps calm the mind, reduce tension, and support cognitive function. It’s often used for mild anxiety and stress.

3. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Best for: insomnia, deep relaxation, muscle tension

Valerian is known as nature’s sedative. It can help with sleep issues and relax tense muscles, but it’s quite strong, so start with small doses.

4. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Best for: stress resilience, adrenal support, balancing hormones

A well-known adaptogen, ashwagandha helps the body cope with stress, supports the adrenal glands, and can aid hormonal balance. Useful during busy or overwhelming periods.

5. Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

Best for: liver detox, digestion, skin health

Dandelion root supports liver function and digestion, making it a popular herb for detoxification. It’s also packed with minerals that nourish the skin.

6. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Best for: liver protection, detox, antioxidant support

Milk thistle contains silymarin, known for its protective and regenerative effects on the liver. It’s often taken after heavy meals or to support liver health.

7. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Best for: digestion, headaches, energy boost

Peppermint tincture is brilliant after meals to ease bloating or indigestion. It can also help relieve tension headaches and provide a natural pick-me-up.

8. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Best for: anxiety, nervous restlessness, sleep troubles

Passionflower is ideal if your mind races at night or you’re feeling edgy. It’s calming without making you feel groggy.

9. Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Best for: nutritional boost, allergies, energy

Rich in vitamins and minerals, nettle tincture supports vitality and is often used to help ease seasonal allergies.

10. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Best for: inflammation, joint health, antioxidant support

Turmeric tincture is warming and anti-inflammatory, supporting joint health and overall well-being. Combining it with black pepper can enhance its effects.

Safety Notes

• Always research proper dosages and check for potential interactions, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

• If pregnant, breastfeeding, or unsure, consult a healthcare professional.

• Start with small amounts to see how your body responds.

Why Make Your Own Tinctures?

Making tinctures at home is not just about the final product; it’s about connecting with the plants, learning their qualities, and creating something nourishing with your own hands. It’s a beautiful, mindful practice that brings herbal wisdom into daily life.

Best DIY Herbal Tinctures: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do homemade tinctures last? When made with alcohol (40–50% ABV), tinctures can last for several years if stored in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed bottle. Always label your tinctures with the date you made them and check for any changes in smell or appearance over time.

2. Can I make alcohol-free tinctures? Yes, you can use vegetable glycerine or apple cider vinegar to make alcohol-free tinctures (sometimes called glycerites or vinegar extracts). Just note that they’re usually less potent and have a shorter shelf life, typically around 6–12 months.

3. How do I take a tincture? Most people take tinctures by adding a few drops (usually 20–30, or about one dropperful) into a small glass of water, juice or tea. You can also take them directly under the tongue, but the taste can be quite strong.

4. Can I mix different herbs in one tincture? Yes, you can create blended tinctures by combining herbs that complement each other well, such as chamomile and lemon balm for relaxation, or turmeric and ginger for inflammation relief. It’s a good idea to research combinations first to ensure they’re safe and compatible.

5. Do I need to use fresh herbs, or can I use dried? You can use either, but dried herbs are often easier to work with and have a more consistent strength. If using fresh herbs, you may need to adjust the alcohol ratio slightly to account for the water content in the plant.