10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Loss Of Appetite

Herbal tinctures for loss of appetite are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that can help stimulate a decrease in appetite.

These natural remedies work by enhancing digestion, reducing inflammation, and increasing hunger hormones, making it easier to enjoy meals and snacks again. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with loss of appetite include peppermint, ginger, and slippery elm, which can alleviate digestive discomfort and promote feelings of fullness.

By taking these tinctures, individuals struggling with anorexia, cancer, or chronic illness may find it easier to eat and maintain a healthy appetite, improving their overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for loss of appetite, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with loss of appetite because they contain compounds that stimulate digestion and improve nutrient absorption, increasing the desire for food.

The tannins present in the tincture also help to regulate blood sugar levels, reducing feelings of lethargy and fatigue that can accompany a lack of appetite.

Additionally, the Maidenhair tree's adaptogenic properties allow it to balance the body's energy and promote overall well-being, encouraging individuals to engage in nourishing habits once again.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba, specifically quercetin and kaempferol, have antioxidant properties that may help to improve nutrient absorption and utilization, thus stimulating appetite.
• Terpenoids: These compounds have neuroprotective effects that may help to alleviate stress and anxiety, which are often associated with loss of appetite.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Ginkgo biloba may help to regulate gut health and improve nutrient absorption, which can contribute to increased appetite.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Leaves: Used for tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which can stimulate appetite.
• Seeds: Used for tinctures due to their galblan and bilobalide content, which can increase appetite and improve digestion.
• Barks: Used for tinctures due to their flavonoid and terpene content, which can enhance appetite and digestive functions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees and clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Dry the leaves in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks or use a food dehydrator at 95°f for 8 hours.
3. Chop the dried leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb grinder to increase surface area.
4. Combine the chopped leaves with 80% vodka and 20% glycerin in a clean glass jar in a 1:2 leaf-to-solvent ratio.
5. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking the jar daily then strain and discard the solids.

2. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it has been traditionally used to stimulate digestion and improve gut health.

The boswellic acids present in frankincense have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to decreased appetite.

Additionally, frankincense's ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety can also alleviate emotional eating and cravings, allowing individuals to develop a healthier relationship with food and restore their natural sense of hunger and fullness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Terpenoids: These compounds help with loss of appetite by modulating inflammatory responses and reducing stress, which can be a contributing factor to decreased appetite.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have been shown to improve gut health and enhance digestion, which can help stimulate appetite.
• Alkaloids: These compounds may help regulate gut hormones and improve appetite by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the gut.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Roots: They are used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help stimulate appetite.
• Barks: They are used to make tinctures because of their ability to promote digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal issues, potentially increasing appetite.
• Leaves: They are used to make tinctures due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate digestive issues and stimulate appetite.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for loss of appetite.

1. Gather 1 cup of dried boswellia serrata resin, 2 cups of 80 proof vodka, and a clean glass jar with a lid.
2. Combine the dried resin with 2 cups of vodka in the glass jar, making sure the resin is completely submerged.
3. Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark location, allowing the mixture to steep for 2 to 3 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to smaller glass bottles, label them, and store them in a cool dark location.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it has a calming effect on the digestive system, which can help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal issues that may be contributing to a lack of interest in food.

The menthol in peppermint also has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce nausea and discomfort associated with eating. This can make mealtime more enjoyable and encourage appetite to return.

Additionally, peppermint's calming effects can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common underlying causes of loss of appetite.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Menthol: Menthol stimulates digestion and increases appetite by irritating the stomach and promoting the release of digestive enzymes.
• Menthone: Menthone has a calming effect on the stomach and promotes appetite by reducing anxiety and stress-related digestive issues.
• Rosmarinus acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to loss of appetite.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Leaves: They contain the highest concentration of menthol, which helps stimulate appetite and improve digestion.
• Roots: They are rich in sesquiterpene compounds that have been traditionally used to enhance appetite and relieve digestive issues.
• Stems: They contain a moderate amount of menthol and other volatile oils that help to increase appetite and alleviate digestive discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers on a sunny day.
2. Chop 1 part of the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks, shaking it daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

4. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it stimulates digestion and increases gut motility, which can help to alleviate digestive discomfort that may be contributing to a lack of appetite.

Additionally, ginger's natural anti-inflammatory properties may reduce nausea and vomiting, making food more appealing again.

The warming sensation it produces in the body can also increase blood flow to the stomach, encouraging appetite and promoting healthy digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have been shown to stimulate appetite and improve digestion by increasing gastric motility and secretions, which can help alleviate loss of appetite.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, such as 6-shogaol and 8-shogaol, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with loss of appetite.
• Curcumenol: Curcumenol, a sesquiterpene present in ginger, has been found to have appetite-stimulating properties, possibly through its effects on gastric acid secretion and motility, which can help improve appetite and digestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Leaves: Leaves: Contain some medicinal properties, although they are not as potent as the rhyzome or root.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh rhizomes of zingiber officinale for tincture production.
2. Clean and slice the rhizomes into small pieces weighing 1-2 pounds for maceration.
3. Combine the sliced rhizomes with 80-100 proof ethanol at a 1:2 ratio by weight for extraction.
4. Steep the mixture in a dark glass container for 2-6 weeks to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the liquid from the solids using cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.

5. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it contains curcumin, a bioactive compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Curcumin stimulates digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can help improve appetite and reduce feelings of fullness. Additionally, turmeric's warming nature can increase blood flow to the digestive tract, stimulating hunger hormones and promoting healthy gut function.

By addressing underlying digestive issues and improving nutrient absorption, turmeric tinctures can help restore a healthy appetite and support overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Curcumin: Curcumin helps with loss of appetite by regulating appetite hormones and reducing inflammation in the digestive system, which can improve nutrient absorption and utilization.
• Tumerone: Tumerone helps with loss of appetite by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, thereby increasing appetite.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC helps with loss of appetite by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in the breakdown of nutrients, thereby increasing the availability of nutrients and improving appetite.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as curcumin, which is known for its appetite-stimulating properties.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also used to make tinctures, as they contain curcumin and other beneficial compounds that can help stimulate appetite.
• Seeds: Although not as widely used, seeds of Curcuma longa may be used to make tinctures, possibly due to their lesser-known but still potentially beneficial effects on appetite and digestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh turmeric roots in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces and dry them in a single layer at 100-150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine the dried root pieces with 80 proof vodka and a 1:2 ratio of root to solvent in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every day to ensure even extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids and store in a cool dark place.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with loss of appetite because they stimulate digestion and increase saliva production, which can help to break down food more efficiently.

The bitter compounds in dandelion root also stimulate the appetite by increasing the release of digestive enzymes, making it easier for the body to process nutrients. Additionally, dandelion tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe digestive issues that could be contributing to a lack of appetite.

As a result, taking dandelion tinctures can help to restore a healthy relationship with food and promote a sense of hunger and satisfaction.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to have a stimulating effect on the appetite by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes and enhancing gut motility.
• Taraxasterol acetate: The acetate form of taraxasterol has been found to have a similar appetite-stimulating effect as taraxasterol, possibly due to its ability to regulate gut hormone secretion and enhance nutrient absorption.
• Taraxanthone: Taraxanthone, a phenolic compound, has been reported to have a mild appetite-stimulating effect, possibly due to its ability to regulate gut motility and enhance the absorption of nutrients.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Roots: They are used because they contain inulin, a type of fiber that can help stimulate appetite.
• Leaves: They are used because they contain bitter compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which can help increase appetite by stimulating digestion.
• Flowers: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help improve digestion and increase appetite.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 25-50 fresh taraxacum officinale roots in the fall or spring when they are most potent for tincture making.
2. Chop the taraxacum officinale roots into small pieces to release their active compounds and increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine 250g of chopped taraxacum officinale root with 750ml of high-proof ethanol in a clean glass container for maceration.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container to collect the clear tincture.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it stimulates the digestive system, increasing saliva production and gut motility.

This helps to break down food more efficiently, making nutrients more accessible and alleviating discomfort or pain associated with eating. Additionally, licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and inclined to eat.

As a result, herbal licorice tinctures can help restore appetite and improve overall digestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates appetite by reducing stress and promoting the release of gut hormones involved in appetite regulation.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help to regulate gut motility and alleviate digestive discomfort, ultimately increasing appetite.
• Licopyrone: This phenolic compound has been shown to have adaptogenic properties, which can help to reduce stress and promote appetite by regulating the body's response to stress and promoting the release of appetite-stimulating hormones.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are the most commonly used part to make tinctures for loss of appetite due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that stimulates appetite.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used to make tinctures for loss of appetite due to their ability to enhance the overall digestive system and stimulate appetite.
• Seeds: Glycyrrhiza glabra seeds are used to make tinctures for loss of appetite due to their rich content of flavonoids and saponins that aid in digestion and stimulate appetite.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 1 pound of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a reputable source when fully matured.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces with a sharp knife to increase their surface area.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka or ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a glass container with a lid for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.

8. Ulmus rubra

Slippery elm tinctures helps with loss of appetite because they contain mucilages that soothe and protect the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract.

This calming effect can help reduce inflammation and irritation, allowing the body to focus on nutrient absorption rather than fighting off discomfort.

As a result, individuals may find their sense of hunger returns, and they are able to enjoy meals without the burden of chronic discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Quercetin: A flavonoid that acts as an antioxidant, helping to reduce inflammation in the body and stimulate appetite by promoting the production of appetite-stimulating hormones.
• Salicin: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate underlying conditions contributing to loss of appetite, such as pain or digestive issues.
• Ellagic acid: A polyphenol that may help stimulate appetite by improving gut health, reducing inflammation, and promoting the release of appetite-stimulating hormones in the gut.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra are used to make tinctures because they contain compounds that may have a stimulating effect on the appetite and digestive system.
• Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used to make tinctures due to their potential adaptogenic and stimulatory properties, which may help increase appetite and improve overall well-being.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh ulmus rubra leaves and twigs from a pesticide-free area on a dry morning.
2. Clean the harvested material by gently brushing off dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush.
3. Chop the cleaned ulmus rubra into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
4. Combine the chopped ulmus rubra with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
5. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.

9. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with loss of appetite because it stimulates digestion and improves gut health.

The herb's natural properties increase saliva production, breaking down food more efficiently, and reducing bloating and discomfort that can lead to a decrease in appetite.

Additionally, fennel tincture has been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, easing cramps and discomfort associated with eating, allowing individuals to regain their appetite and enjoy meals without hesitation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Fenchone: This terpene has carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nausea and discomfort, thereby encouraging appetite.
• Anethole: This phenolic compound has a sweet, anise-like flavor and aroma, which can stimulate the appetite and reduce symptoms of nausea and indigestion.
• Umbellulone: Although less commonly discussed than other compounds, some research suggests umbellulone, another terpene found in Foeniculum vulgare, may have appetite-stimulating effects due to its ability to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and improve digestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Seeds: They are used due to their carminative properties, which help to reduce gas and alleviate digestive discomfort.
• Leaves: They are used because of their high content of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which has a stimulatory effect on appetite.
• Roots: They are used for their rich content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that helps to regulate digestive health and stimulate appetite.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest the fresh or dried foeniculum vulgare roots and stems in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase the surface area.
3. Combine 100 grams of chopped foeniculum vulgare with 500 milliliters of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 to 21 days to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

10. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with loss of appetite because its calming and soothing properties can ease digestive discomforts, such as bloating, gas, and indigestion, which are common triggers for decreased appetite.

The tincture's natural sedative effects can also help reduce anxiety and stress that may be contributing to a lack of interest in food.

Additionally, lemon balm's mild antidepressant properties may help improve overall mood, making it more enjoyable to eat and increasing the desire for nourishment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with loss of appetite.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps to stimulate appetite by acting as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may be contributing to loss of appetite.
• Volatile oils: A group of terpenes that have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may be causing a loss of appetite, and also stimulate appetite by promoting relaxation.
• Volatile oil: A terpene that has a stimulating effect on the digestive system, which can help to increase appetite by improving digestion and reducing nausea.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for loss of appetite.

• Leaves: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly citral and citronellal, which have appetite-stimulating properties.
• Flowers: They are used as a substitute for leaves and contain similar properties, making them a popular choice for herbal remedies aimed at improving appetite.
• Stems: Although less commonly used than leaves and flowers, stems of Melissa officinalis may be used in some herbal preparations to support appetite regulation, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for loss of appetite.

1. Harvest fresh melissa leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when the plant is at its highest potency level.
2. Dry the leaves in a single layer on paper bags or a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 50 grams of dried melissa leaves with 500 milliliters of 80 percent ethanol in a glass container and store in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids and reserve the liquid.
5. Transfer the liquid to a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid and store in the refrigerator to slow down the aging process for up to 2 years.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for loss of appetite?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with loss of appetite is a blend of Ashwagandha, Ginger, and Licorice root.

Ashwagandha helps to balance the body's energy and reduce stress, which can contribute to a lack of appetite. Ginger stimulates digestion and increases appetite, while Licorice root soothes the stomach and alleviates nausea. Taking these tinctures together can help to restore a healthy appetite and promote overall digestive well-being.

Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to loss of appetite are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to loss of appetite that are treated with herbal tinctures are nausea, indigestion, and digestive issues.

Tinctures like Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Peppermint (Mentha piperita) can help alleviate symptoms of nausea and indigestion by soothing the stomach and reducing inflammation.

Other herbs like Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) may also be used to treat digestive issues such as bloating and gas.