Tinctures vs. Glycerites: Which Herbal Extract Is Right for You?

Let’s talk herbal extracts—the plant potions that make your wellness routine easier, more effective, and way more aligned with that whole “I take care of myself like I mean it” energy.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed about choosing between tinctures and glycerites, breathe easy. We’re breaking it all the way down—what they are, how they’re different, and how to make each one at home like the herbal kitchen witch you were born to be.

First, What’s the Difference?

Both tinctures and glycerites are liquid herbal extracts, but they use different solvents to pull the plant magic from the herbs.

Tinctures = Alcohol-Based Extracts

• Solvent: Alcohol (usually vodka, brandy, rum, etc.)

• Shelf Life: Long—can last indefinitely, but strongest in first 2 years.

• Potency: High—alcohol is amazing at extracting a wide range of plant compounds.

• Taste: Boozy, strong, sometimes bitter.

• Great for: Adults, long-term storage, high-potency support.

Glycerites = Glycerin-Based Extracts

• Solvent: Vegetable glycerin + water

• Shelf Life: 6–12 months if stored properly

• Potency: Mild to moderate—won’t extract everything, but still effective.

• Taste: Sweet and syrupy—way more palatable than tinctures.

• Great for: Kids, folks avoiding alcohol, sensitive systems.

TL;DR: Tinctures are strong and shelf-stable. Glycerites are gentle and sweet. Both have a place in your herbal cabinet.

Basic Tincture Recipe (Alcohol-Based)

This is your classic, time-tested extract method. Keep it simple and let the plants do the heavy lifting.

You’ll Need:

• 1 oz dried herb or 2 oz fresh herb

• 1 pint of alcohol (vodka is a fave—go for 80–100 proof)

• Clean glass jar with a tight lid

• Cheesecloth or coffee filter

• Dropper bottles for storage

How To:

1. Add herbs to your jar.

2. Pour alcohol over the herbs until completely covered.

3. Label it with the herb name + date (trust me on this).

4. Store in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. Shake it daily like a boss.

5. After steeping, strain out the plant material and bottle the liquid.

6. Store in dark glass dropper bottles or a cool cupboard.

✨ Dosage Tip: Start with 20–40 drops, 1–3 times a day, depending on the herb.

🍯 Basic Glycerite Recipe (Alcohol-Free)

Perfect for little ones, sober folks, or anyone who needs a gentler option.

You’ll Need:

• 1 oz dried herb or 2 oz fresh herb

• ¾ cup vegetable glycerin + ¼ cup distilled water

• Glass jar with lid

• Cheesecloth or filter

• Dropper bottles or amber jars

How To:

1. Mix your glycerin and water (3:1 ratio).

2. Add herbs to the jar and cover completely with the liquid mixture.

3. Label that jar!

4. Store in a cool, dark spot for 4–6 weeks, shaking often.

5. Strain out herbs and bottle your sweet, syrupy goodness.

✨ Dosage Tip: ½ to 1 tsp, up to 3 times daily. Also great in warm water or tea.

So… Which One Do I Choose?

Let’s make it easy:

Choose This If…	Go With a Tincture	Try a Glycerite
You want max potency and long shelf life	✅
You're sensitive to alcohol or making it for a child		✅
You don’t mind a strong herbal taste	✅
You prefer a sweet, easy-to-take extract		✅
You need it to last over a year	✅
You want to extract essential oils and resins	✅

LimonCrafts Real Talk

Herbal medicine should feel like empowerment, not pressure. Whether you choose a bold tincture or a gentle glycerite, you're inviting plant allies into your life in a powerful way.

✨Tinctures are like that friend who gets straight to the point.

✨Glycerites are the sweet, patient cousin who always has snacks and hugs.

There’s no one right way—just the one that works for you and your wellness rhythm.

Ready to get hands-on? We’ve got recipes, DIY workshops, and herbal goodness to keep your cabinet stocked and your spirit supported. And if you ever feel unsure? Drop us a message. We're in this together, plant love and all.