Homemade Yarrow Tincture and Extract Recipe using Food Grade Ethanol
Yarrow is a powerful and versatile herb known for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supporting properties. Making your own yarrow 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 Yarrow?
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial herb from the Asteraceae (daisy) family, recognized for its feathery leaves and small clusters of white or pink flowers. It has been widely used in herbal medicine, first aid, and digestive health due to its rich content of flavonoids, tannins, and volatile oils, which contribute to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Why Make a Yarrow Tincture Instead of Using Fresh or Dried Yarrow?
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Higher Potency: A tincture concentrates yarrow’s active compounds, making them more effective than fresh or dried plant material.
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Long Shelf Life: Fresh yarrow wilts quickly, while an ethanol-based tincture remains stable for up to two years.
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Versatile Use: Can be taken internally for immune and digestive support or applied externally for wound healing.
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Precise Dosage: Allows for easy, controlled dosing of yarrow’s benefits without consuming large amounts of the herb.
Traditional Uses and Benefits of Yarrow
Yarrow has been widely used in Traditional European Herbalism, Native American Medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been valued for its wound-healing, fever-reducing, and circulation-enhancing properties. European herbalists traditionally used yarrow to control bleeding and support digestive health. Native American healers relied on yarrow as a first-aid remedy for cuts, bruises, and insect bites. TCM utilizes yarrow to clear heat, move stagnant energy, and support circulation.
Where is Yarrow Natively Grown?
Yarrow is native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, thriving in meadows, grasslands, and disturbed soil areas. It grows abundantly in California, Oregon, Texas, New York, and Colorado, preferring well-drained soil with full to partial sunlight.
Sourcing Yarrow and How to Select Quality
For the best tincture results, source organic, fresh or dried yarrow leaves and flowers from reputable herbal suppliers, farmers’ markets, or cultivated home gardens. Choose vibrant green leaves and brightly colored flowers with a fresh, strong scent. Avoid plant material that is wilted, discolored, or lacking fragrance, as these signs indicate diminished potency.
Preparing Yarrow for Tincture
To prepare yarrow for tincturing:
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Ensure the leaves and flowers are clean and free from debris.
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Gently chop or crush the plant material to improve extraction efficiency.
Recipe: Homemade Yarrow Tincture and Extract
Ingredients:
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1 ounce (28 g) of fresh or dried yarrow leaves and flowers, chopped
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4 fl oz (118 mL) of USDA Certified Organic Food Grade Ethanol
Instructions:
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Place the chopped yarrow leaves and flowers in a clean, dry glass jar.
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Pour the ethanol over the plant material, ensuring it is fully submerged.
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Seal the jar tightly and shake gently.
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Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 48 hours, shaking occasionally to enhance extraction.
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After the extraction period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove plant material.
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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 Yarrow Tincture or Extract
Store your yarrow 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 Yarrow Tincture
Yarrow tincture is commonly used to support wound healing, digestion, and circulatory health. A standard dosage is 5-15 drops in water or tea, taken 1-3 times daily as needed. Externally, the tincture can be diluted with water and applied to minor cuts, bruises, or insect bites. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Own Yarrow Tincture
Making a yarrow tincture at home is an effective way to harness its wound-healing, fever-reducing, and digestive-supporting properties. By using 200 Proof Food Grade Ethanol, you ensure a high-quality, chemical-free extraction that preserves yarrow’s valuable compounds. Whether for first aid, digestive wellness, or circulatory support, incorporating yarrow 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.
