Tinctures, Tonics, & Extracts

Herbs are most potent when their constituents have been extracted into various solvents. Different solvents pull different phytochemicals and bioactive components. 

For most tinctures, alcohol (ethanol) is the solvent of choice due to its long shelf life and extraction capability. 

Vegetable glycerin is an alcohol-free option that produces a sweet syrupy extract. Glycerin extracts are not as strong as ethanol, but still highly effective. 

Raw vinegars are used for extracting plant minerals and some constituents that alcohol wouldn’t normally dissolve, like calcium and phosphorus.