By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Open Wounds
Herbal tinctures for open wounds are concentrated plant extracts used to accelerate the healing process, promote tissue repair, and reduce the risk of infection.
These potent solutions help to stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and fight off bacterial growth, making them an effective natural remedy for open wounds. For example, tea tree oil and calendula tinctures have antimicrobial properties that combat bacteria and fungi, while aloe vera and chamomile tinctures soothe and calm the skin.
By using these herbal remedies, individuals can reduce scarring, speed up recovery time, and alleviate discomfort, ultimately improving their quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for open wounds, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Hypoxis hemerocallidea
- 3. Ginkgo biloba
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Allium cepa
- 6. Artemisia absinthium
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Cinchona officinalis
- 9. Plantago major
- 10. Aloe vera
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for open wounds?
- What ailments similar to open wounds are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with open wounds because of its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
The tannins and flavonoids present in the herb create a protective barrier on the wound surface, preventing bacterial growth and promoting faster healing. Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain, while its antioxidants neutralize free radicals that can hinder the healing process.
As a result, pot marigold tinctures can accelerate the natural healing process, promote tissue regeneration, and minimize the risk of infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly caffeic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which prevent infection and promote a healthy wound environment.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, such as calendulin, possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in preventing infection and promoting wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Flowers: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds, which aid in wound healing and reducing the risk of infection.
- Leaves: Leaves are also commonly used, as they possess similar healing properties to the flowers and can help promote tissue regeneration and protect against infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for open wounds.
- Harvest 100g of fresh calendula flowers at peak bloom and clean them thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine the cleaned flowers with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a glass jar and seal it tightly to prevent contamination.
- Place the jar in a cool dark location and steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks to allow the tincture to develop.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container to remove the plant material.
- Store the resulting 20% calendula tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid in a cool dry place.
2. Hypoxis hemerocallidea
Star grass tinctures helps with open wounds because of its remarkable antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
The herbal extract contains compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, promoting a healthy environment for wound healing. Additionally, star grass tincture has anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce swelling and pain associated with open wounds. Its ability to stimulate collagen production also enhances tissue repair and promotes faster healing.
As a result, star grass tinctures can be a valuable addition to wound care regimens.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypoxis hemerocallidea tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Hypoxoside: This glycoside constituent is believed to exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for wound healing.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that can impede the wound healing process.
- Phenolic acids: The presence of phenolic acids in Hypoxis hemerocallidea tinctures is thought to contribute to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, helping to protect the wound site from infection and promoting tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of star grass used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of hemerocallin, a compound that has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them effective in treating open wounds.
- Leaves: They also contain hemerocallin and other compounds that contribute to their antimicrobial properties, making them a useful addition to wound-care tinctures.
- Rhyzomes: They contain a combination of hemerocallin and other compounds, which have been traditionally used to aid in the healing of open wounds by reducing infection and promoting tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic star grass for open wounds.
- Harvest 50-100 grams of dried root of the medicinal plant, ideally in the early morning.
- Chop the root into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped root with 500ml of 70% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 14-21 days, shaking the container daily.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
3. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with open wounds because of its exceptional antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
The tannins present in the tincture help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, the antioxidants work to promote collagen synthesis, which accelerates the wound healing process.
This natural remedy can be used topically or taken internally to enhance wound recovery, promoting faster closure and reducing the risk of complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones help with open wounds by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), which reduces inflammation and improves wound healing.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene triterpene helps with open wounds by promoting collagen synthesis, enhancing tissue repair, and reducing oxidative stress, ultimately facilitating faster wound closure.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds help with open wounds by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and promote a favorable environment for wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their rich content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Barks: The barks are used to make tinctures that may help with wound healing due to their potential antimicrobial and antifungal properties, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
- Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are sometimes used to make tinctures, which may help with wound healing due to their reported antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for open wounds.
- Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the leaves in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to prevent mold growth.
- Weigh out 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and combine with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
4. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with open wounds because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, promoting a healthy environment for wound healing. Additionally, St John's Wort has been shown to improve blood flow to the affected area, reducing swelling and promoting collagen synthesis, which aids in tissue repair.
This natural remedy can be used topically to accelerate the healing process and reduce the appearance of scars.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin has potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing in open wounds.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have antiseptic and antiviral properties, which help to prevent the growth of bacteria and viruses that can infect open wounds, promoting a clean environment for healing.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in St. John's Wort have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the wound, promoting a healthy environment for tissue repair and regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: Containing hyperforin and hypericin, which have antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, helping to prevent infection in open wounds.
- Flowers: Rich in hyperforin and hypericin, which aid in reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, and preventing infection.
- Stems: Containing hyperforin and hypericin, which help to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for open wounds.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of fresh or dried hypericum perforatum flowers at peak flowering stage for maximum potency.
- Chop the harvested flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped flowers with 50-60 percent vodka as a solvent in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the tincture from solids.
5. Allium cepa
Onion tinctures helps with open wounds because of its natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The sulfur compounds found in onions have been shown to stimulate collagen production, promoting tissue repair and accelerating wound closure.
Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of onion tinctures help combat bacterial and fungal infections that can impede healing, creating a conducive environment for wounds to heal quickly and efficiently.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium cepa tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Allicin: Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound that has potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, which can help prevent infection and promote wound healing.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with open wounds, promoting a conducive environment for healing.
- S-allylcysteine sulfoxide: SACSO is a compound that has been shown to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect the wound from oxidative stress and infection, facilitating the healing process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of onion used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Roots: They contain compounds like alliin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating wounds.
- Leaves: They have antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help to prevent infection in open wounds.
- Stems: They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic onion for open wounds.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh allium cepa roots in the fall when the tops begin to yellow and die.
- Clean and chop the roots into small pieces to release their active compounds for extraction.
- Combine 1 pound of the chopped roots with 2 liters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids after 2 hours of pressing.
6. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood tinctures helps with open wounds because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial infections that can delay healing.
The tannins present in wormwood also aid in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of wormwood help to cleanse the wound of debris and promote a healthy environment for new tissue growth, allowing for faster and more effective healing.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various types of wounds and skin conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Thujone: A sesquiterpene ketone found in Artemisia absinthium, thujone exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent infections in open wounds by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Absinthin: A sesquiterpene lactone in Artemisia absinthium, absinthin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, contributing to wound healing by reducing inflammation and preventing the colonization of pathogens in open wounds.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenolic compound found in Artemisia absinthium, tannins possess astringent properties that help to stop bleeding in open wounds and promote clotting by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid loss.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: Artemisia absinthium leaves are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in preventing infection and promoting healing in open wounds.
- Stems: Artemisia absinthium stems are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the risk of infection in open wounds and promote a clean environment for healing.
- Roots: Artemisia absinthium roots are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote the healing of open wounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for open wounds.
- Harvest 1 part of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers from a clean and well-ventilated area.
- Chop the dried material into smaller pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 95% grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with open wounds because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tincture's bioactive compounds, such as taraxasterol and sesquiterpenes, work synergistically to reduce swelling, redness, and pain at the wound site. Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial and fungal infections that can slow down the healing process.
As a result, dandelion tinctures promote a healthy and rapid recovery by creating an environment conducive to tissue repair and regeneration.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene compound has been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent infection and reduce swelling in open wounds.
- Luteolin: As a flavonoid, luteolin exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which aid in promoting tissue repair, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing further damage to the wound site.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has been found to possess potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat infection, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing process in open wounds.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Roots: Used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: Used for their high concentration of flavonoids, which have been shown to possess antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, aiding in wound healing.
- Stems: Used for their phenolic compounds, which contribute to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial in the treatment of open wounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for open wounds.
- Gather 25-50 parts of taraxacum officinale roots and stems and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale roots and stems into small pieces and combine them in a clean glass jar.
- Fill a clean glass jar with 75% taraxacum officinale and 25% glycerin and add 90 proof vodka enough to cover the mixture.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the mixture every day for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid from the jar through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discard the solids.
8. Cinchona officinalis
Jesuit's bark tinctures helps with open wounds because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tannins present in the extract have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, promoting a healthy environment for wound healing. Additionally, the tannins help reduce swelling and pain by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation, allowing for faster recovery and closure of wounds.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat open wounds, providing a safe and effective alternative to conventional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Quinic acid: Quinic acid in Cinchona officinalis tinctures may aid in wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Cinchona officinalis tinctures, may help in wound healing by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, thus promoting a conducive environment for tissue repair.
- Quinovose: Quinovose, a carbohydrate constituent in Cinchona officinalis tinctures, may contribute to wound healing by stimulating the production of growth factors and promoting collagen synthesis, which is essential for wound closure and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of quinine, a key compound for treating wounds and infections.
- Barks: The barks are rich in alkaloids like quinine and cinchonidine, which have antimicrobial properties to aid in wound healing.
- Fruits: Fruits are a less common but still used part, containing smaller amounts of alkaloids that contribute to the tincture's therapeutic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for open wounds.
- Harvest 1 part of dried cinchona officinalis bark by hand in early morning or late afternoon.
- Chop the dried cinchona officinalis bark into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar.
- Combine the chopped cinchona officinalis bark with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to 3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
9. Plantago major
Plantain tinctures helps with open wounds because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can infect the wound.
The tincture's anti-inflammatory compounds also reduce swelling and pain, promoting a healthy environment for the wound to heal. Additionally, plantain's antioxidant properties help protect the wound from further damage by neutralizing free radicals.
By applying the tincture topically, open wounds can recover faster and with less risk of infection or scarring.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Apolipoproteins: These proteins help to promote wound healing by facilitating the transport of nutrients and growth factors to the wound site, thus supporting tissue repair and regeneration.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of infection and promote a conducive environment for wound healing.
- Saponins: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress at the wound site, promoting a more favorable environment for tissue repair and regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to protect and soothe open wounds.
- Seeds: Seeds are used due to their reported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in wound healing and preventing infection.
- Roots: Roots are used due to their supposed ability to stimulate the growth of new tissue and promote wound closure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for open wounds.
- Gather 50g of dried plantago major leaves and flowers and store them in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the dried plantago major with 50% vodka and 50% water in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
- Label the bottle and store the plantago major tincture in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.
10. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with open wounds because they possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that promote a conducive environment for healing.
The tincture's ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and improve blood flow enhances tissue repair, reducing the risk of infection and scarring. Additionally, its antimicrobial compounds target specific pathogens, preventing bacterial growth and promoting a sterile wound bed.
This synergy enables herbal aloe tinctures to accelerate the natural healing process, facilitating faster recovery and minimizing the risk of complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with open wounds.
- Acemannan: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and promote wound healing.
- Glycoproteins: They possess antimicrobial properties that prevent infection and promote a clean environment for wound healing.
- Salicylic acid: It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for open wounds.
- Leaves: They contain the most active compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Gel inside the leaves: The clear gel inside Aloe vera leaves is used to make tinctures, it has healing properties that help soothe and protect open wounds.
- Flowers: Aloe vera flowers contain compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for open wounds.
- Harvest 100g of fresh aloe vera gel and clean it thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the aloe vera gel into small pieces and combine it with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the mixture to steep and infuse slowly.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove the aloe vera solids.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for open wounds?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with open wounds is a blend of Calendula, Echinacea, and Aloe Vera.
Calendula promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and fights off infection. Echinacea boosts the immune system, preventing infections from taking hold. Aloe Vera soothes and calms the skin, promoting a conducive environment for healing.
When used together, these tinctures can accelerate the wound healing process, reduce scarring, and promote tissue regeneration, resulting in a faster and more effective recovery.
What ailments similar to open wounds are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to open wounds that are treated with herbal tinctures are those that involve inflammation, irritation, and potentially chronic conditions.
These include skin irritations such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and rosacea, as well as internal issues like gastritis, ulcers, and hemorrhoids.
Herbal tinctures, made from plants rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, can help to soothe, calm, and heal these conditions by reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and promoting tissue repair.