10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Flu

Herbal tinctures for flu are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which have been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of influenza.

These natural remedies help combat flu by boosting immunity, reducing fever, and relieving congestion and body aches. Examples of herbal tinctures that can aid in fighting off the flu include echinacea, elderberry, and ginger.

By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can experience significant improvements in their overall well-being, allowing them to recover faster and more effectively from the flu.

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

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with flu because its active compound, echinacein, has potent antiviral properties that target the influenza virus.

When taken at the onset of symptoms, the tincture can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness by inhibiting viral replication and promoting a healthy immune response.

Additionally, coneflower's anti-inflammatory compounds may alleviate fever, cough, and congestion associated with the flu, making it a valuable natural remedy to combat this seasonal menace.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with flu.

• Alkalamines: These compounds, specifically echinacoside and caftaric acid, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms by reducing inflammation in the body.
• Iridoid glycosides: Echinacea angustifolia tinctures contain iridoid glycosides like echinacoside, which have been found to stimulate the immune system, helping the body fight off flu viruses and infections.
• Caffeic acid phenylethyl ester: CAPE, a phenolic compound found in Echinacea angustifolia, has been reported to possess antiviral properties, which can help combat flu viruses and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for flu.

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are primarily used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, such as echinatin and echinacoside, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes, which are underground stems that store nutrients, are often used as they contain a higher concentration of immunomodulatory compounds compared to the roots.
• Flowers: Echinacea angustifolia flowers are used in some tinctures due to their content of glycosides and polyphenols, which may have antiviral and antioxidant effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for flu.

1. Harvest 1 part of echinacea angustifolia roots in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.
2. Chop 1 part of echinacea angustifolia roots into small pieces for better extraction.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with flu because of its antiviral properties, which can help to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to inhibit the replication of various viruses, including influenza A and B. Additionally, licorice tincture's expectorant properties can help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe and recover from the flu.

Its anti-inflammatory effects also help to alleviate fever, cough, and body aches associated with the flu.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the symptoms of flu by reducing inflammation and congestion in the respiratory tract.
• Licopyranocoumarin: Licopyranocoumarin has antiviral properties that help combat the influenza virus by inhibiting its replication and spread in the body.
• Isoliquiritigenin: Isoliquiritigenin has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by the flu virus, reducing the severity and duration of the illness.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are used to make tinctures for flu because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for flu because they are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have antiviral and immunomodulatory effects.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for flu because they contain compounds such as glycosides and phenolic acids, which have been reported to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for flu.

1. Harvest 1 part of dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra and chop it into small pieces for tincture preparation.
2. Combine the chopped root with 2 parts of vodka or 75 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the solids.
5. Discard the solids and store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years in a dark glass bottle.

3. Andrographis paniculata

King of bitters tinctures helps with flu because it contains a blend of potent herbs that work together to soothe and calm the body.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce fever and relieve congestion, while its antiviral compounds attack the flu virus, halting its spread through the body. Additionally, the bitter taste stimulates digestion and boosts immune function, supporting the body's natural defense against infection.

As a result, King of bitters tinctures can provide effective relief from flu symptoms, helping you recover faster and stronger.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata tinctures that help with flu.

• Andrographolide: This labdane diterpenoid helps with flu by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.
• Andrographolide glucosides: These compounds, particularly andrographolide-14-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, contribute to the antiviral and immunomodulatory activities of Andrographis paniculata, helping to boost the body's defenses against flu viruses.
• Wogonin: A flavone glycoside present in Andrographis paniculata, wogonin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make tinctures for flu.

• Leaves: The leaves are the primary source of the bioactive compound andrographolide, which is responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
• Roots: The roots contain a higher concentration of andrographolide compared to the leaves, making them a preferred choice for tincture production.
• Stems: The stems of Andrographis paniculata also contain andrographolide, although in smaller amounts compared to the leaves and roots.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for flu.

1. Harvest 30 grams of andrographis paniculata leaves and flowers when the plant is in full bloom for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Use a 1:5 ratio to combine 30 grams of dried andrographis paniculata with 150 ml of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in the dark at room temperature for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store the tincture in a dark place.

4. Isatis tinctoria

Woad tinctures helps with flu because they contain a concentrated form of botanicals that work synergistically to combat viral infections.

Echinacea, for example, stimulates the immune system to produce white blood cells that fight off invading viruses, while elderberry's anthocyanins have antiviral properties that inhibit the spread of infection.

The tinctures' antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds also help reduce fever and soothe respiratory symptoms, making them a natural and effective way to alleviate flu symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Isatis tinctoria tinctures that help with flu.

• Isatisin: A phenolic glycoside that helps with flu by exhibiting antiviral properties, specifically inhibiting the replication of the influenza virus and reducing the severity of flu symptoms.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that helps with flu by reducing inflammation, modulating the immune response, and inhibiting the replication of the influenza virus.
• Saponins: A group of triterpenoid compounds with immunomodulatory and antiviral properties that help with flu by enhancing the immune response, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting the replication of the influenza virus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of woad used to make tinctures for flu.

• Leaves: Isatis tinctoria leaves are used to make tinctures due to their high content of isothiocyanates, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Isatis tinctoria roots are used in tinctures to take advantage of their immunomodulatory effects, which help to stimulate the immune system and fight off infections.
• Seeds: Isatis tinctoria seeds are used to make tinctures for their high content of isothiocyanates and other bioactive compounds, which have been shown to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic woad for flu.

1. Harvest isatis tinctoria roots and leaves in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by rinsing it with pure water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Dry the isatis tinctoria plant material in a warm dry place or using a food dehydrator at 95°f for 8 hours.
4. Combine 100 grams of dried isatis tinctoria plant material with 500 milliliters of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every few days.

5. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with flu because of its natural antiviral properties, particularly against the influenza virus.

Echinacea purpurea, the herb used to make purple coneflower tincture, has been shown to stimulate the immune system and increase antibody production, helping to fight off infection. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce fever and alleviate symptoms such as coughing and sore throats.

By taking a purple coneflower tincture during the onset of flu, individuals may experience reduced duration and severity of symptoms, promoting faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with flu.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight off viral infections like the flu.
• Echinacosides: These caffeic acid derivatives have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of flu symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and body aches.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates stimulate the production of interferon, a protein that helps to activate the immune system and fight off viral infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for flu.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of alkylamides and other compounds that enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
• Flowers: Utilized for their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce fever and alleviate flu symptoms.
• Leaves: Employed for their ability to provide antioxidant properties and support immune function, helping to combat flu and other respiratory infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for flu.

1. Harvest fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Dry the echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in a single layer at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 part dried echinacea purpurea with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with flu because of its natural antiviral properties, which help to combat the infection and alleviate symptoms.

The tincture contains isosterols, a group of compounds that have been shown to exhibit antiviral activity against influenza viruses. Additionally, dandelion has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce fever and soothe sore throats and coughs.

By incorporating herbal dandelion tinctures into one's regimen, individuals can potentially reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms, promoting a faster recovery and overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms by minimizing inflammation in the body.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid phenolic compound has potent antiviral and antioxidant properties, making it effective in preventing the replication of flu viruses and reducing oxidative stress caused by the infection.
• Taraxacum officinale flavonoids: The flavonoid glycosides present in dandelion tinctures, such as apigenin and luteolin, exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the body's immune response to fight off flu viruses.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high content of taraxasterol, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots are used due to their rich content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, useful in treating flu symptoms.
• Flowers: Flowers are used due to their high concentration of saponins, which have been found to have immunomodulatory and antiviral properties, helping to combat flu viruses.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for flu.

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers by cutting them at the base of the plant with scissors.
2. Dry the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
3. Combine 1 part dried taraxacum officinale with 2 parts 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

7. Euphorbia pekinensis

Chinese milkweed tinctures helps with flu because of its antiviral properties, which help to combat the infection by inhibiting the replication of viruses in the body.

The tincture's bioactive compounds, such as saponins and alkaloids, also have anti-inflammatory effects that reduce congestion, coughing, and sore throat associated with flu. Additionally, milkweed tinctures can help boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

By incorporating Chinese milkweed tinctures into their treatment plan, individuals may experience faster recovery and reduced risk of complications from the flu.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphorbia pekinensis tinctures that help with flu.

• Quercetin: An antioxidant flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common factors in the development and progression of flu.
• Saponins: A group of glycosides with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat viral infections and alleviate flu symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: A class of compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects, which could help regulate the immune system and alleviate flu-related inflammation and oxidative damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese milkweed used to make tinctures for flu.

• Roots: Rich in alkaloids and saponins, which are believed to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help reduce fever and alleviate flu symptoms.
• Stems: Rich in saponins, which have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues and may help combat flu.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese milkweed for flu.

1. Harvest fresh euphorbia pekinensis roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
2. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces weighing about 500 grams and dry them in a warm place for 2 weeks.
3. Combine the dried euphorbia pekinensis root pieces with 70 vodka and a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts solvent in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 months shaking it every week to facilitate extraction and infusion.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids to obtain the final product.

8. Solidago virgaurea

Goldenrod tinctures helps with flu because of its impressive antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of various viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce congestion, coughing, and fever associated with flu symptoms. Additionally, goldenrod's expectorant qualities help loosen mucus, making it easier to expel and alleviate sinus pressure and chest tightness.

As a result, goldenrod tinctures offer natural relief from the uncomfortable and debilitating effects of the flu.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea tinctures that help with flu.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of flu, such as reducing fever and relieving body aches.
• Triterpenoids: They exhibit antimicrobial activity, which can help combat viral infections, such as the flu, by inhibiting the replication of the virus and reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the immune system, reduce the severity of flu symptoms, and promote overall recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make tinctures for flu.

• Leaves: They are used for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties to help relieve respiratory symptoms associated with the flu.
• Stems: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties to help combat flu symptoms.
• Roots: They are used for their antiseptic and immunomodulatory properties to help boost the immune system and fight off flu viruses.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for flu.

1. Collect 30-40 grams of dried solidago virgaurea flowers from a trusted source for future use.
2. Combine 30-40 grams of dried solidago virgaurea flowers with 500 milliliters of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for infusion and extraction.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Label and store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years in airtight glass bottles.

9. Lonicera japonica

Japanese honeysuckle tinctures helps with flu because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The plant's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the replication of influenza viruses and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. This can help alleviate symptoms like fever, coughing, and congestion, making it easier for the body to recover from the flu.

Additionally, Japanese honeysuckle tinctures may also boost the immune system, helping to prevent future infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lonicera japonica tinctures that help with flu.

• Kaempferol: This flavonoid helps alleviate flu symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can aid in reducing the severity of flu-related inflammation and viral replication.
• Loniceric acid: This phenolic acid has been shown to possess antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the immune system and combat viral infections such as the flu.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and viral replication associated with flu, as well as modulating the immune response to promote recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of japanese honeysuckle used to make tinctures for flu.

• Leaves: Used for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate flu symptoms.
• Flowers: Used for their antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which may help combat flu viruses.
• Barks: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help soothe flu-related symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic japanese honeysuckle for flu.

1. Harvest 100g of fresh lonicera japonica flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the plant material by gently rinsing it with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 500ml of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every few days.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

10. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with flu because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying infection.

The tincture's active compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenes, have been shown to inhibit the growth of influenza viruses and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

By targeting the root cause of the illness, maidenhair tree tinctures can help alleviate symptoms like coughing, fever, and congestion, promoting a faster recovery from the flu.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by the flu virus, thereby alleviating symptoms such as fever and body aches.
• Terpenoids: Specifically, bilobalide and ginkgolides, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help inhibit the replication of the flu virus and reduce the severity of symptoms such as cough and congestion.
• Proanthocyanidins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which help enhance the body's natural defense against the flu virus and reduce the duration and severity of the illness.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate flu symptoms.
• Seeds: The seeds contain ginkgotoxin, a compound that has shown potential in reducing the severity of flu symptoms by inhibiting the replication of the flu virus.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, which can aid in recovering from flu.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for flu.

1. Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the leaves in a warm place or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder.
4. Combine the powdered ginkgo biloba with 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1 part herb to 2 parts solvent in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily then strain and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with flu is a blend of Elderberry, Echinacea, and Ginger.

Elderberry tincture helps reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms, while Echinacea tincture boosts the immune system to fight off the infection. Ginger tincture aids in reducing fever and nausea. Additionally, incorporating a small amount of Licorice Root tincture can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.

This combination of tinctures can help alleviate flu symptoms and support the body's natural healing process.

What ailments similar to flu are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to flu/tinctures.html">flu/tinctures.html">flu that are treated with herbal tinctures are common colds, bronchitis, and sinus infections.

Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like elderberry, echinacea, and goldenseal have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and fatigue.

These remedies can provide relief from respiratory issues without the side effects associated with over-the-counter medications.