Homemade Thyme Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol

Thyme is a versatile herb known for its immune-boosting, antimicrobial, and respiratory-supporting properties. Making your own thyme tincture ensures that you can extract and preserve its beneficial compounds in a potent, easy-to-use liquid form. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a high-quality tincture using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol for maximum potency and purity.

What is Thyme?

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a perennial herb from the Lamiaceae (mint) family, recognized for its earthy, slightly peppery aroma and medicinal properties. It has been widely used in herbal medicine, culinary applications, and respiratory health support due to its rich content of thymol, carvacrol, and flavonoids, which contribute to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Why Make a Thyme Tincture Instead of Using Fresh or Dried Thyme?

• Higher Potency: A tincture concentrates thyme’s active compounds, making them more effective than fresh or dried plant material.

• Long Shelf Life: Fresh thyme wilts quickly, while an ethanol-based tincture remains stable for up to two years.

• Versatile Use: Can be taken internally for immune and respiratory support or used in culinary applications for enhanced flavor and health benefits.

• Precise Dosage: Allows for easy, controlled dosing of thyme’s benefits without consuming large amounts of the herb.

Traditional Uses and Benefits of Thyme

Thyme has been widely used in Traditional European Herbalism, Mediterranean Medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been valued for its antimicrobial, digestive-supporting, and lung-clearing properties. Mediterranean herbalists traditionally used thyme for respiratory and digestive health. European herbalists relied on thyme for its immune-enhancing properties and ability to fight infections. TCM utilizes thyme to warm the lungs, dispel dampness, and support circulation.

Where is Thyme Natively Grown?

Thyme is native to the Mediterranean region but has been widely cultivated in dry, warm climates. It thrives in California, Texas, Oregon, and Arizona, where it is grown for culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes.

Sourcing Thyme and How to Select Quality

For the best tincture results, source organic, fresh or dried thyme leaves from reputable herbal suppliers, farmers’ markets, or cultivated home gardens. Choose vibrant green, aromatic leaves with a slightly woody stem. Avoid plant material that is brittle, yellowed, or lacking fragrance, as these signs indicate diminished potency.

Preparing Thyme for Tincture

To prepare thyme for tincturing:

• Ensure the leaves and stems are clean and free from debris.

• Gently crush or chop the leaves to improve extraction efficiency.

Recipe: Homemade Thyme Tincture and Extract

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce (28 g) of fresh or dried thyme leaves, chopped

• 4 fl oz (118 mL) of USDA Certified Organic Food Grade Ethanol

Instructions:

1. Place the chopped thyme leaves in a clean, dry glass jar.

2. Pour the ethanol over the plant material, ensuring it is fully submerged.

3. Seal the jar tightly and shake gently.

4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 48 hours, shaking occasionally to enhance extraction.

5. After the extraction period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove plant material.

6. Transfer the finished tincture into a dark glass dropper bottle for storage and easy use.

Note: Tinctures made with 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol are typically ready after the recommended steeping times, but allowing the tincture to soak longer can enhance potency and rarely produces negative effects. Many assume tinctures require lengthy extraction times, but with 200 proof food grade ethanol, extraction is significantly faster and more efficient.

Best Practices for Storing Your Thyme Tincture or Extract

Store your thyme tincture in a dark glass bottle away from heat and sunlight to maintain potency. When properly stored, the tincture remains effective for up to two years.

Suggested Uses and Dosage for Thyme Tincture

Thyme tincture is commonly used to support immune function, respiratory health, and digestion. A standard dosage is 5-15 drops in water or tea, taken 1-3 times daily as needed. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

Culinary Applications of Thyme Extract

• Flavor Enhancer: A few drops add a deep, earthy flavor to soups, stews, and roasted dishes.

• Marinades and Dressings: Enhances the flavor of meats, vinaigrettes, and herbal-infused oils.

• Herbal Teas and Beverages: Infuse into teas or warm beverages for a calming and digestion-supporting boost.

• Baked Goods and Savory Dishes: Adds complexity to breads, stuffing, and pasta sauces.

Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Own Thyme Tincture

Making a thyme tincture at home is an effective way to harness its antimicrobial, digestion-supporting, and immune-boosting properties. By using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol, you ensure a high-quality, chemical-free extraction that preserves thyme’s valuable compounds. Whether for respiratory health, immune support, or culinary creativity, incorporating thyme tincture into your routine is a natural and effective solution.

No health claims are made from the content of this blog post. Consult a medical professional before deciding to make or consume the tinctures and extracts discussed. Be aware of possible adverse effects or allergies, as individual reactions may vary.