The 5 Essential Tinctures You Need This Winter to Combat Illnesses

Winter is the season of cozy blankets, hot tea, and festive gatherings. Unfortunately, it’s also the time when colds, flu, and other respiratory infections—including COVID-19 and bird flu—tend to run rampant. This year, prepare yourself and your loved ones by creating a winter healing kit featuring five powerful tinctures designed to keep you healthy, fight off infections, and recover faster if illness strikes.

Why Tinctures?

Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of herbs or spices, preserving their healing properties in a potent, easy-to-use form. They are highly bioavailable, meaning your body absorbs them quickly, making them an ideal remedy for combating winter illnesses.

In today’s blog, we’ll explore five tinctures to add to your arsenal, their scientifically supported benefits, step-by-step recipes, and how to use them safely.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Tincture

Why Elderberry?

Elderberries are rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have been shown to enhance immune response and reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms. Research suggests elderberry extract can inhibit the replication of influenza viruses and shorten the duration of illness.

Recipe

Alcohol Base

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried elderberries

• 2 cups vodka (40% alcohol or higher)

• 1 clean, sterile glass jar with lid

Instructions:

1. Add dried elderberries to the jar.

2. Pour vodka over the berries until fully submerged.

3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it daily.

4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Store in a dark amber bottle.

Glycerin Base (Alcohol-Free)

• Replace vodka with vegetable glycerin diluted with water (2 parts glycerin, 1 part water).

• Follow the same steps, but let it steep for 6-8 weeks.

Dosage

• Adults: 1-2 teaspoons daily as prevention; up to 3 times daily if sick.

• Children (ages 2+): ½ teaspoon daily; up to 3 times daily if sick.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) Tincture

Why Echinacea?

Echinacea is a well-known immune stimulant. It increases white blood cell activity, helping your body fight infections more effectively. Studies suggest echinacea may reduce the frequency and duration of colds.

Recipe

Alcohol Base

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried echinacea root

• 2 cups vodka (40% alcohol or higher)

• 1 clean, sterile glass jar with lid

Instructions:

1. Add dried echinacea root to the jar.

2. Pour vodka over the root until fully covered.

3. Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.

4. Strain and store in a dark amber bottle.

Glycerin Base

• Replace vodka with a glycerin-water mixture (as above).

• Let steep for 6-8 weeks.

Dosage

• Adults: 1-2 droppers (20-30 drops) every 3-4 hours at the onset of illness.

• Children (ages 2+): 5-10 drops every 4-6 hours.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Garlic (Allium sativum) Tincture

Why Ginger and Garlic?

Ginger contains gingerol, a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that soothes respiratory discomfort. Garlic is rich in allicin, which has antiviral, antibacterial, and immune-boosting properties.

Recipe

Alcohol Base

Ingredients:

• ½ cup fresh grated ginger

• ½ cup minced fresh garlic

• 2 cups vodka

• 1 clean, sterile glass jar with lid

Instructions:

1. Add ginger and garlic to the jar.

2. Pour vodka over them until fully submerged.

3. Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.

4. Strain and store in a dark amber bottle.

Glycerin Base

• Replace vodka with a glycerin-water mixture.

• Let steep for 6-8 weeks.

Dosage

• Adults: 1 teaspoon up to 3 times daily.

• Children (ages 2+): ¼ teaspoon up to 3 times daily.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) Tincture

Why Astragalus?

Astragalus is an adaptogen that strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and supports lung health. It’s especially beneficial for preventing respiratory infections.

Recipe

Alcohol Base

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried astragalus root slices

• 2 cups vodka

• 1 clean, sterile glass jar with lid

Instructions:

1. Place astragalus root in the jar.

2. Pour vodka over it until covered.

3. Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.

4. Strain and store in a dark amber bottle.

Glycerin Base

• Replace vodka with a glycerin-water mixture.

• Let steep for 6-8 weeks.

Dosage

• Adults: 1-2 teaspoons daily as prevention.

• Not recommended for children under 12.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Tincture

Why Licorice Root?

Licorice root has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for soothing sore throats, reducing coughs, and supporting lung function.

Recipe

Alcohol Base

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried licorice root

• 2 cups vodka

• 1 clean, sterile glass jar with lid

Instructions:

1. Add licorice root to the jar.

2. Pour vodka over it until fully submerged.

3. Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.

4. Strain and store in a dark amber bottle.

Glycerin Base

• Replace vodka with a glycerin-water mixture.

• Let steep for 6-8 weeks.

Dosage

• Adults: 1 teaspoon up to 3 times daily.

• Not recommended for children under 12 or those with high blood pressure.

Creating Your Winter Healing Kit for Travel

Pack these tinctures in small, amber dropper bottles. Include a mini-guide with dosage instructions and contraindications. Add other essentials like a digital thermometer, herbal teas, and soothing balms to create a comprehensive kit.

Winter Preparations

Winter illnesses are inevitable, but by preparing these powerful tinctures, you can boost your immunity, shorten the duration of sickness, and stay resilient. Remember, prevention is key—pair these remedies with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Let this winter be one of strength and wellness for you and your family.

Scientific References

1. Roschek, B., Jr., Fink, R. C., McMichael, M., & Li, D. (2009). Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection. Phytochemistry, 70(10), 1255-1261.

2. Linde, K., Barrett, B., Wölkart, K., Bauer, R., & Melchart, D. (2006). Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.

3. Percival, S. S. (2016). Immunomodulating effects of garlic. Journal of Nutrition, 146(2), 433S-436S.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. Always use herbs responsibly and follow recommended dosages.