How To Make Herbal Glycerites + Ways To Use Glycerites

Harness the power of herbal remedies by learning how to make herbal glycerites at home with just 2 ingredients and a little bit of time! Using herbs for healing and comfort is as old as the human experience, and thankfully, very simple -- even in our busy modern times.

What Is An Herbal Glycerite?

Glycerites are simply alcohol-free tinctures. These herbal remedies have concentrated the herbs' properties into glycerin. Herbal glycerites give us the power to make concentrated extracts. These medicines, in turn, can be used both internally and externally. Get the maximum and concentrated benefits of herbs with a simple, homemade glycerite.

How To Make Herbal Glycerites

Creating herbal glycerites is a simple as first choosing an herb and then covering it with glycerin:

1. Fill a clean, glass jar one-fourth full of dried herbs (see suggestions below).
2. Pour Wildly Organic Vegetable Glycerin over the herbs, filling the jar to within 1 inch of the top.
3. Next, stir it together, removing any air bubbles. Add more glycerin if necessary to keep the herbs submerged.
4. Cover with a lid.
5. Put the jar into a dark cabinet.
6. Allow the herbs to steep into the glycerin for a month. Shake the jar every now and then.
7. At the end of the month, strain the herbs from the glycerin. Use a fine mesh sieve, lined with cheesecloth. This double layer keeps any bits of herbs out of the final infusion.
8. Finally, store the infused glycerin -- now a glycerite -- in a clean, labeled glass jar. Keep the jarred glycerite out of direct sunlight.

Ways To Use Glycerites Internally

• Chamomile -- like the tea but more concentrated, a chamomile glycerite can help promote restful sleep.
• Echinacea is a potential immune-building powerhouse that can come in handy during cold and flu season.
• Oregon grape root was traditionally used to treat diarrhea.
• Peppermint can ease an upset stomach.

Herbal Glycerite Internal Usage & Dosage

Glycerites are typically taken internally as a tincture. Common dosages range from half to 1.5 teaspoons up to 3 times a day. Double-check the herb and age of the person being treated. Always ask a trained health professional. Further, be sure that no allergies are present and that any potential contraindications are mitigated and avoided. Remember, natural does not equal safe for everyone. Some herbs are not safe for pregnant women; other herbs may interfere with certain medical conditions or prescription medications. Always seek and follow trained advice.

Ways To Use Glycerites Externally

• Calendula is soothing and softening to the skin and has shown anti-fungal properties.
• Lemon balm has been extensively studied for its ability to heal cold sores.
• Oregon grape root may relieve skin irritation, including psoriasis. 

How To Use Herbal Glycerites Externally

Glycerin is naturally softening to the skin, therefore a glycerite is a soothing way to medicate the skin. Get the most benefit from glycerites by simply rubbing it into the skin. Add glycerites to homemade salves, soaps, and balms to spread their soothing power even more.

Do you know how to make herbal glycerites? What ways to use glycerites can you share?