Tinctures, Extracts, and Infusions…oh my!

I know what you’re thinking, but these are not incantations from an ancient religion. Instead, we’re referring to ways of consuming herbs, spices, and adaptogens for their health benefits. Each method has it’s own benefits and purposes, so read on to learn which products might be best for you.

We’ll begin first with infusions. Everyone, at one point or another, has had an herbal infusion if they’ve had tea. Generally, an herbal infusion is water based and is steeped with more herbs and for a longer time than a typical herbal tea. Infusions can be prepared hot or cold depending on the herbs being used (hot for berries and bark, cold for delicate leaves and flowers). Infusions are the most approachable of the methods listed here.

Next on the list is tinctures. Tinctures offer a convenient form of herbal medicine that extract both the water-soluble and alcohol-soluble properties from plants. Tinctures are also shelf-stable, lasting for years and years. Also, alcohol-based tinctures are extremely fast-acting since alcohol can enter our bloodstream quickly. Our tongue and cheeks contain lots of capillaries which quickly absorb the alcohol.

Finally we have extracts. When we talk about extracts, we’re referring to powdered extracts. Powdered extracts are made by soaking the herb in a solvent that is later evaporated. What’s left behind is a concentrated powder of plant chemicals that’s typically mixed with some whole herb powder to add consistency and sold in capsule, tablet, or powder form. Although these extracts are the most potent and convenient, they can also be created using chemicals and are not as “natural“ as some people would prefer.

So there you have it, all the ways you can enjoy the many benefits of herbal medicine and our natural world. As always though, listen to your body, and consult with a medical specialist to see which method could be best for you.