Herbal tinctures have been a part of traditional medicine for centuries, offering a range of benefits for the skin and overall health. In recent years, they have gained popularity as a natural alternative to harsh chemicals and prescription medications, especially for those struggling with acne.
So, what exactly are herbal tinctures? Simply put, they are concentrated liquid extracts made from herbs and alcohol. The alcohol acts as a solvent, extracting the active compounds from the plant material, resulting in a highly concentrated form of the herb. This concentration makes tinctures an effective and efficient way to reap the benefits of herbs for various health concerns, including acne.
Many herbs have been shown to help treat acne in different ways. For example, calendula is an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic herb that can soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote healing. Witch hazel is a powerful astringent that can help tighten pores, reduce oiliness, and combat bacteria that can cause acne. And, chamomile is a gentle herb that can soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of redness and inflammation.
"Making your own herbal tinctures at home is easy and affordable."
To make an alcohol-based tincture, you will need:
- Herbs of your choice (dried or fresh)
- High-proof alcohol (such as vodka or brandy)
- A clean, airtight glass jar with a lid
- A strainer
- Cheesecloth or muslin cloth
To make your tincture, simply chop or crush your herbs and place them in the glass jar. Fill the jar with alcohol, making sure the herbs are completely covered. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Shake the jar once a day to help extract the active compounds from the herbs.
After the steeping time has passed, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or muslin cloth into a clean glass bottle. Label the bottle with the date, herb(s) used, and the percentage of alcohol. Store your tincture in a cool, dark place and use as needed. You then just take a teaspoon or 1-2 droppers full of your tincture, mix it with spring water and ingest it. Start with a small dosage and work your way up. If you experience side effects like headaches or diarrhea stay with this dosage for a while. If the symptoms go away after a 2 to 3 days you experienced detox symptoms. If not, stop taking the tincture and consult a doctor, ideally naturopath to check if you might have an allergic reaction to the herb. Although, this is quite unlikely, it is best to check this off the list.
Herbal tinctures can be a valuable addition to your acne treatment plan. With a variety of herbs to choose from, you can tailor your tincture to meet your specific needs and skin concerns. And, making your own tinctures at home is easy and cost-effective, allowing you to reap the benefits of herbs in a convenient, concentrated form.