10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Infection

Herbal tinctures for infection are concentrated plant extracts used to combat bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

These natural remedies work by stimulating the body's immune system to fight off pathogens, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with infection include goldenseal, which combats bacterial infections such as UTIs, and echinacea, which boosts the immune system against viral infections like the common cold.

By using these tinctures, individuals can alleviate symptoms and recover faster from illnesses, improving their overall quality of life.

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

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with infection because they contain potent compounds like echinacin, which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties.

These properties help to combat a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, Kansas coneflower tinctures also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting overall immune system function.

By stimulating the body's natural defenses, Kansas coneflower tinctures can provide effective relief from infection and promote a speedy recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia have been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, helping to boost the immune system's response to infection.
• Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation associated with infections.
• Caffeic acid phenylethyl ester: CAPE is a phenolic compound that has been demonstrated to exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of pathogens and prevent infection.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of alkylamides and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Stems: The stems of Echinacea angustifolia are used to make tinctures because they contain a significant amount of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Barks: The barks of Echinacea angustifolia are used to make tinctures due to their rich content of phenolic compounds, which have been found to exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall or late summer season.
2. Chop 1 part of the roots into smaller pieces weighing approximately 1 pound or 450 grams.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80-100 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar daily for 2 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.

2. Andrographis paniculata

King of bitters tinctures helps with infection because it contains a potent blend of herbs that work synergistically to combat bacterial, viral, and fungal invaders.

The antimicrobial properties of ingredients like goldenseal, echinacea, and burdock root help to disrupt the replication cycle of pathogens, reducing their ability to spread and cause harm.

Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds soothe the immune system, promoting a healthy response to infection and accelerating the body's natural healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Andrographolide: A diterpenoid lactone that exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to combat bacterial, viral, and fungal infections by inhibiting the growth and replication of pathogens.
• Andrographolide glucoside: A glycosidic derivative of andrographolide that contributes to the herb's immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby enhancing the body's natural defense against infections.
• Lithospermic acid: A phenylethnolide that displays potent antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria, by disrupting cell membrane integrity and inhibiting the production of virulence factors.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Andrographis paniculata are used to make tinctures for infection because they contain the highest concentration of the bioactive compound andrographolide, which has antimicrobial properties.
• Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures for infection due to their ability to release andrographolide and other compounds that help combat bacterial and fungal infections.
• Stems: The stems are used to make tinctures for infection because they contain andrographolide and other flavonoids that exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 cups of andrographis paniculata leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Combine the clean andrographis paniculata leaves and flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it daily for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
5. Store the andrographis paniculata tincture in a cool dark place and use it within 2 years, dosing 20 to 30 drops per serving.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with infection because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

The tannins present in licorice root have been shown to exhibit antiviral activity against various pathogens, including herpes simplex virus and influenza virus. Additionally, licorice's anti-inflammatory compounds can help reduce swelling and promote healing in infected areas.

By targeting both the microorganism causing the infection and reducing inflammation, herbal licorice tinctures can provide a natural and holistic approach to combating infections.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Liquiritin: It helps with infection by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of various pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.
• Glycyrrhizin: It helps with infection by showing antiviral and antibacterial activities, potentially reducing the severity and duration of infections.
• Liquorice isoflavones: It helps with infection by displaying antioxidant properties, which can aid in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation often associated with infections.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make tinctures for infection due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for infection due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
• Roots: The roots are also used for their saponin content, which has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity and aid in wound healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 dry roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the morning after the dew has dried for maximum potency.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for solvent absorption using a sharp knife.
3. Combine the chopped root pieces with 70% ethanol in a 1:3 ratio by weight in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the container every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

4. Berberis aristata

Tree turmeric tinctures helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which allow it to effectively combat a wide range of microorganisms.

The curcuminoids present in turmeric have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while also reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

This makes tree turmeric tinctures an excellent natural remedy for infections such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and ear infections, helping to alleviate symptoms and promote overall health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis aristata tinctures that help with infection.

• Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid found in Berberis aristata, exhibits antimicrobial properties by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, thereby helping to combat infections.
• Isovitexin: Isovitexin, a flavonoid glycoside, has been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help in reducing the severity of infections and promoting healing.
• Vitexin: Vitexin, another flavonoid glycoside present in Berberis aristata, has been found to exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which can aid in protecting against infections and promoting overall health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tree turmeric used to make tinctures for infection.

• Roots: Rich in berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that helps combat infections.
• Barks: Contain berberine and other alkaloids, contributing to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in treating infections.
• Leaves: Also rich in berberine, which helps to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and reduce inflammation in the body.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tree turmeric for infection.

1. Gather 1 part of berberis aristata roots and 2 parts of apple cider vinegar in a clean glass jar.
2. Add 80 proof vodka to the jar to cover the roots completely for 4-6 weeks.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it 2-3 times a day for 4 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle for storage.

5. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with infection because they contain powerful antimicrobial compounds that target invading pathogens, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, work synergistically to destroy bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while also soothing the affected area.

Additionally, elder tinctures have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with infection, allowing the body to recover more effectively.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with infection.

• Flavonoids: These compounds possess potent antimicrobial properties, helping to combat the growth and spread of infectious microorganisms.
• Sambunigrin: This glycoside has been shown to have antiviral activity, inhibiting the replication of viruses and thereby reducing the risk of infection.
• Ellagic acid: As a phenolic compound, ellagic acid exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress that can contribute to infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for infection.

• Flowers: Used due to their high content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Used for their antiseptic and antiviral properties, which help combat infections and promote wound healing.
• Stems: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing swelling and fighting off infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for infection.

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and berries in mid to late summer when they are fully ripe and dry.
2. Clean the sambucus nigra flowers and berries thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris using a fine mesh sieve.
3. Combine 1 part sambucus nigra flowers and berries with 2 parts high-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with infection because of its potent antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's active compounds, including taraxasterol and taraxanthin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of various microorganisms, including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce swelling and pain associated with infected areas, allowing the body's natural healing processes to take over more efficiently.

As a result, herbal dandelion tinctures can be an effective natural remedy for supporting immune function and combating infections.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene ester helps with infection by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, particularly against certain bacteria and fungi, thereby inhibiting their growth and preventing the spread of infection.
• Inulin: A type of fructan, inulin has prebiotic properties, which help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of infection.
• Taraxasterol acetate: This triterpene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of pathogens that can cause infection.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are rich in saponins, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating infections.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale contain apigenin, a flavonoid with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to combat infections.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh leaves and roots from the plant in the early morning when moisture is high.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces and place it in a clean glass jar.
3. Add 500ml of 35% ethanol to the jar and seal it tightly for 2-3 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle and keep it in a cool place for up to 2 years.

7. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with infection because its active compound, hyperforin, has potent antimicrobial properties.

This allows it to effectively combat a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause infections. Hyperforin has been shown to inhibit the growth of pathogens, reducing their ability to multiply and spread, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms of infection such as pain, inflammation, and fever.

Additionally, St John's Wort tinctures may also help boost the body's natural immune response, enabling it to fight off infections more effectively.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with infection.

• Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which help combat bacterial and viral infections.
• Naphthodianthrones: Flavonoids such as hypericin and pseudohypericin within the naphthodianthrones class display antiviral and antibacterial activities, contributing to the plant's infection-fighting properties.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, rutin and hyperoside, two flavonoid glycosides found in Hypericum perforatum, possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that aid in infection management.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for infection.

• Leaves: They contain hypericin and hyperforin, which have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
• Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: They contain alkaloids like hypericin and hyperforin, which have antimicrobial and antiviral properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for infection.

1. Harvest fresh st john's wort flowers and leaves in late spring or early summer when they are in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Measure out 1 part of the dried plant material and combine it with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

8. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids present in pot marigold have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thereby reducing the severity of infections.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in pot marigold tinctures help to soothe and calm inflamed tissues, promoting a faster recovery from infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with infection.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds help with infection by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.
• Phenylpropanoids: These phenolic compounds help with infection by displaying antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which help to neutralize free radicals and prevent the proliferation of pathogens.
• Flavonoids: These compounds help with infection by exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for infection.

• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to create a tincture that helps treat infections and promote wound healing.
• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties to create a tincture that helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, reducing the risk of infection.
• Stems: Not commonly used but, some use the stems to create a tincture that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, similar to the flowers.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for infection.

1. Gather 250 grams of fresh calendula officinalis flowers or 100 grams of dried flowers for making tinctures.
2. Combine the gathered flowers with 1 liter of 25% ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture for 2 to 4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Transfer the resulting tincture to small dark glass bottles for storage and use.

9. Euphorbia esula

Leafy spurge tinctures helps with infection because they contain a unique blend of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and saponins, which have been shown to exhibit potent antimicrobial properties.

These compounds have been found to inhibit the growth of various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thereby helping to combat infections and promote healing.

The tincture's ability to target multiple types of pathogens makes it a valuable natural remedy for treating a range of infectious conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphorbia esula tinctures that help with infection.

• Saponins: Saponins in Euphorbia esula tinctures have antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of various bacteria and fungi, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Euphorbia esula tinctures exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which contribute to their ability to prevent or mitigate the spread of infection.
• Terpenes: Caryophyllene oxide, a terpene in Euphorbia esula tinctures, has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, thereby helping to combat infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of leafy spurge used to make tinctures for infection.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections.
• Stems: The stems are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which aid in wound healing and infection prevention.
• Roots: The roots are used for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help fight off various types of infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic leafy spurge for infection.

1. Gather euphorbia esula roots and stems for tincture preparation weighing 1 pound total.
2. Chop euphorbia esula plant material into small pieces then combine with 5 cups of 80 proof vodka.
3. Allow the euphorbia esula vodka mixture to steep in a glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks shaking daily.
4. Strain the euphorbia esula tincture through cheesecloth into a separate container discarding solids.
5. Bottle and label the euphorbia esula tincture storing in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

10. Phyllanthus niruri

Galangal tinctures helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which enable it to target and eliminate bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens.

The bioactive compounds present in galangal, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the growth of various microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans.

Additionally, galangal's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and promote healing, allowing the body to recover faster from infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phyllanthus niruri tinctures that help with infection.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with infections.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help to prevent the growth and spread of pathogens, and reduce inflammation and tissue damage caused by infections.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have antimicrobial and astringent properties, which can help to prevent the growth of pathogens, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of galangal used to make tinctures for infection.

• Leaves: They are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat infections.
• Stems: The stems of Phyllanthus niruri contain flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them effective against infections.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are used for their ability to exhibit antimicrobial properties, specifically against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which are common causes of infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic galangal for infection.

1. Harvest approximately 100 grams of fresh phyllanthus niruri leaves and flowers at dawn to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested material in a shaded area for 2-3 weeks to reduce moisture content to 10%.
3. Weigh out 10 grams of dried phyllanthus niruri and combine it with 100 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids, resulting in a 10% tincture.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with infection is Echinacea and Goldenseal.

Echinacea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms. Goldenseal, on the other hand, contains berberine, a compound that has antimicrobial properties, which help to combat bacterial and fungal infections. Combining these two tinctures can provide a powerful defense against infection, promoting healing and immune system function.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal tinctures.

What ailments similar to infection are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to infection/tinctures.html">infection/tinctures.html">infection that are treated with herbal tinctures are fungal infections, viral infections, and bacterial infections.

Herbal tinctures like goldenseal, echinacea, and tea tree oil are effective against candida overgrowth, herpes simplex, and MRSA infections.

Other examples include tinctures made from garlic, ginger, and turmeric, which can help combat sinusitis, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues caused by infection or inflammation.