Chamomile tincture is a simple, concentrated herbal extract made by steeping chamomile flowers in alcohol (or a non-alcoholic alternative). It's prized for its calming properties, often used to promote relaxation, ease mild anxiety, support better sleep, soothe digestion, and reduce stress—making it a gentle, natural aid for winding down.
Equipment
Ingredients
1 cup dried chamomile flowers
2 tbsp dried lavender buds
1 cup vodka
Instructions
- Prepare your herbs and jar.Sterilize the glass jar (boil or run through dishwasher). If using dried chamomile, lightly crumble the flowers for better extraction. Fill the jar about 1/2 full with dried flowers (do not pack tightly). For fresh flowers, fill about 2/3 full.
- Add the Menstruum (alcohol).Pour alcohol (or glycerin) over the flowers until fully submerged with 1–2 inches of liquid on top. This prevents mold. Gently stir or shake to release air bubbles.
- Seal and macerate.Seal the jar tightly. Label with date, ingredients, and "Chamomile Tincture." Store in a cool, dark place (like a cupboard). Shake gently daily for the first 1–2 weeks, then every few days. Let it infuse for 4 weeks (minimum 2 weeks; up to 6 weeks for stronger potency). The liquid will turn golden-amber.
- Strain and bottle.After infusing for 28 days, strain through cheesecloth or a fine strainer into a clean bowl, pressing the herbs to extract every drop. Use a funnel to transfer the liquid into dark amber dropper bottles. Discard (or compost) the spent herbs. Label bottles with date and dosage info. Store in a cool, dark place. Alcohol-based tinctures last 2–5+ years (or indefinitely if alcohol content stays high).
if using fresh flowers be aware the tincture will have a much shorter shelf life and may spoil. I always recommend dried flowers and herbs for all tinctures
Notes
The alcohol needs to be at least 80 proof / 40% ABV; neutral vodka is ideal
- You can use fresh herbs and lower-proof alcohol but the shelf life of your tincture will be greatly reduced.
- Always ensure you have a 2-3 cm coverage of alcohol above the herbals. Top up with alcohol as often as required.
- Alcohol-based tinctures last 2–5+ years (indefinitely if alcohol content is high).
- Glycerin versions last about 1 year; refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Check periodically for cloudiness or off smells (discard if questionable).
- Standard dose: 1/4–1 teaspoon (about 30–60 drops) in water, tea, or under the tongue, up to 3 times daily. Start low (20 drops) and adjust as needed—chamomile is very gentle.
- For sleep or stress: Take 30–60 minutes before bed.
- It can be added to baths, used in compresses, or diluted for skin soothing.
YOUR RECIPE NOTES:
Nutrition
Calories: 8kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.04gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 12mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.03gVitamin A: 58IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 29mgIron: 2mg
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