10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Sunburn

Herbal tinctures for sunburn are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, used to soothe and calm skin damaged by excessive UV exposure.

These natural remedies help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate healing, making them a gentle and effective alternative to chemical-based creams. Popular herbal tinctures for sunburn include Aloe vera, Calendula, and Plantain, which can be applied topically or taken internally in tea form.

By using these tinctures, individuals can alleviate discomfort, reduce scarring, and quickly recover from sunburns, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about painful skin damage.

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

1. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with sunburn because of its natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

When applied topically, aloe vera gel can reduce redness and swelling, while also calming the skin's itching and burning sensations. The herbal extract's antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells, promoting faster healing and reducing the appearance of sunburned skin.

As a result, aloe tinctures provide quick relief from sunburn discomfort, allowing skin to recover and regenerate more efficiently.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone compound that helps to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the skin by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Aloe-barbadensis polysaccharides: Aloe-barbadensis polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with sunburn.
• Catechin: Catechin is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress caused by UV radiation, thereby promoting skin healing and reducing the risk of long-term damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are rich in aloe-emodin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe sunburned skin.
• Gel (from leaves): This is the most widely used part of the Aloe vera plant, providing a soothing, moisturizing effect to sunburned skin.
• Aloe polysaccharides (from leaves): These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory properties and can help accelerate the healing process of sunburned skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for sunburn.

1. Gather 100 grams of fresh aloe vera gel and 500ml of 80% ethanol in separate containers.
2. Chop the aloe vera gel into small pieces and mix it with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow for maceration.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Store the herbal aloe vera tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

2. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with sunburn because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness, swelling, and pain.

The tincture's rich antioxidants also help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of peeling and blistering.

Additionally, pot marigold contains flavonoids that have been shown to protect against UV-induced damage, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating sunburn discomfort and promoting healthy, radiant skin.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with sunburn by reducing inflammation, which can alleviate redness and discomfort caused by sun exposure.
• Carotenoids: Specifically, carotenoids like lycopene, found in Calendula, act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage skin cells and contribute to sunburn.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids in Calendula, such as calendulic acid, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and protect the skin from further damage after a sunburn.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are most commonly used to make tinctures for sunburn due to their high concentration of flavonoids and triterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used as they contain similar compounds to the flowers, providing relief from sunburn and promoting skin healing.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis are used to make tinctures as they contain a mixture of flavonoids and triterpenoids that aid in skin protection and healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers when in full bloom and dry them immediately to preserve their potency.
2. Combine 1 part dried calendula flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow infusion to occur.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into another clean glass container to separate the liquid from solids.
5. Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid for storage.

3. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey tinctures helps with sunburn because of its unique ability to accelerate skin healing and reduce inflammation.

The allantoin present in comfrey tincture promotes cell growth, repair, and regeneration, which can help soothe and calm sunburned skin. Additionally, comfrey's anti-inflammatory properties can ease redness, itching, and discomfort associated with sunburn.

By applying comfrey tincture topically, individuals can experience faster healing times, reduced risk of infection, and a more comfortable recovery from sunburn.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Allantoin: Helps with sunburn by promoting wound healing and reducing inflammation through its protective and regenerative properties.
• Saponins: Assist in soothing sunburned skin by reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of damaged skin tissues.
• Phenolic acids: Help protect the skin from further damage caused by UV radiation and also exhibit antioxidant properties to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with sunburn.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Leaves: They contain allantoin, which helps to soothe and calm sunburned skin.
• Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing sunburn pain and inflammation.
• Stems: They contain mucilage, a protective gel-like substance that can help to soothe and protect sunburned skin.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for sunburn.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh symphytum officinale root and leaf material from a clean environment.
2. Clean the symphytum officinale material by gently washing it with cool water to remove impurities.
3. Chop the cleaned symphytum officinale material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
4. Steep 1 part of chopped symphytum officinale in 2 parts of 80-proof vodka for 4 weeks to create tincture.
5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from solids.

4. Plantago major

Plantain tinctures helps with sunburn because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plantain leaf has been used for centuries to treat skin irritations, including burns and sun damage. When applied topically or taken orally as a tincture, plantain extracts can help reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with sunburn.

Additionally, plantain's antioxidant properties can help protect the skin from further damage caused by UV radiation, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of long-term skin damage.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Apolipids: Apolipids in Plantago major tinctures help with sunburn by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Plantago major tinctures help with sunburn by protecting the skin from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation caused by UV radiation, thereby promoting skin health and reducing sunburn severity.
• Asterane diterpenes: Asterane diterpenes in Plantago major tinctures help with sunburn by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may help reduce sunburn symptoms and promote skin recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Leaves: The leaves are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to soothe and calm sunburned skin.
• Seeds: Plantago major seeds contain mucilages, which can help to protect and moisturize the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Roots: The roots of Plantago major contain antioxidants and other compounds that can help to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and promote skin health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for sunburn.

1. Harvest plantago major leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated using scissors or a knife.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 7 to 10 days at 30 degrees celsius.
3. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
4. Steep 1 part of the chopped plant material in 2 parts of 70 percent ethanol for 2 weeks in a glass jar.
5. Strain the tincture using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

5. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with sunburn because it possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties.

When applied topically, the active compounds in St John's Wort, such as hyperforin and hypericin, soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with sunburn. Additionally, its natural moisturizing agents help to hydrate and nourish the skin, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.

As a result, St John's Wort tinctures can provide rapid relief from sunburn symptoms, allowing you to recover quickly and enjoy the great outdoors again.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce redness, swelling, and damage to skin cells caused by sunburn.
• Flavonoids: As strong antioxidants, flavonoids in Hypericum perforatum can neutralize free radicals produced by UV radiation, thereby protecting skin cells from oxidative damage and promoting skin healing.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce pain, itching, and the risk of secondary infections associated with sunburn.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in hyperforin and hypericin, compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe sunburned skin.
• Stems: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and discomfort associated with sunburn.
• Flowers: High in flavonoids, including rutin and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in soothing sunburned skin and promoting healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh plant tops and leaves early in the morning when they are dry.
2. Chop 1 part of plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or pruning shears.
3. Steep 1 part of chopped plant material in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Allow the mixture to infuse in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

6. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with sunburn because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm irritated skin.

The tincture's natural cooling properties help to reduce heat, redness, and itching associated with sunburns, providing quick relief from discomfort. Additionally, stinging nettle's antioxidant-rich profile helps to neutralize free radicals caused by UV damage, promoting skin rejuvenation and reducing the risk of long-term sun damage.

As a result, using herbal stinging nettle tinctures can provide effective natural relief from sunburn symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an antioxidant to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by sunburn, promoting skin repair and soothing discomfort.
• Allicin: Although not the primary constituent of Urtica dioica, allicin (found in small amounts) is a sulfur compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate sunburn symptoms and accelerate skin recovery.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate sunburn damage by neutralizing free radicals, reducing inflammation, and supporting the skin's natural healing process.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part for sunburn relief due to their high content of antioxidants, flavonoids, and other compounds that help soothe and calm the skin.
• Roots: Roots are also used to make tinctures for sunburn, as they contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing.
• Stems: Stems are sometimes used in combination with leaves to make a tincture, as they contain some of the same beneficial compounds and can add to the overall effectiveness of the remedy.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for sunburn.

1. Gather 1 part dried urtica dioica leaves and flowers and 2 parts high-proof vodka for a 1:2 ratio.
2. Combine the dried urtica dioica mixture with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the herbal urtica dioica tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with sunburn because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated skin.

The tannins present in dandelion help to reduce redness and swelling, while the antioxidants work to repair damaged skin cells. Additionally, dandelion's ability to stimulate blood flow can help to promote the removal of toxins from the skin, reducing further inflammation and discomfort.

This natural remedy can provide effective relief from sunburned skin without harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with sunburn, promoting faster healing and soothing skin irritation.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that exhibits potent antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals that cause oxidative stress and damage to skin cells after sun exposure, thereby protecting the skin from further harm.
• Sitosterol: A phytosterol that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort caused by sunburn, while also promoting skin regeneration and cell protection.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to soothe sunburned skin.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to calm and reduce inflammation in sunburned skin.
• Roots: They are rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help to relieve sunburn pain and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated and dry them thoroughly in a dark place.
2. Combine 1 part of dried taraxacum officinale with 2 parts of 95% vodka in a clean glass container.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the container every day.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Store the taraxacum officinale tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid and keep it out of direct sunlight.

8. Helianthus annuus

Sunflower tinctures helps with sunburn because of its unique composition, rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that work together to soothe and calm the skin.

The tannins present in sunflowers help reduce inflammation, while the vitamin E content promotes skin regeneration and repair.

Additionally, sunflower's anti-inflammatory properties ease discomfort and itching associated with sunburn, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving sun-kissed woes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helianthus annuus tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help protect the skin from UV damage, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen synthesis, all of which aid in soothing and healing sunburned skin.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals caused by UV radiation, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with sunburn.
• Tannins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which help reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with sunburn, promoting a faster recovery and minimizing the risk of infection.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sunflower used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Seeds: They contain a high concentration of oil that can help soothe and calm sunburned skin.
• Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in reducing redness and promoting skin healing.
• Flowers: They have a cooling effect and can provide relief from sunburn due to their anti-inflammatory properties and soothing action.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sunflower for sunburn.

1. Harvest the sunflower flowers when in full bloom and dry them completely in a warm place for 7 days.
2. Chop the dried flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife and a clean cutting board.
3. Combine the chopped flowers with 80 proof vodka or 95% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar in a cool dark place for 4 weeks or 28 days.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

9. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with sunburn because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in chamomile work to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with sunburned skin. By applying a topical tincture or consuming it internally, the body absorbs the beneficial compounds, which calm the skin and promote healing.

This natural remedy can provide relief from itching, stinging, and burning sensations, allowing for a faster recovery and reduced risk of further irritation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with sunburn.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with sunburn by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and promoting wound healing, which can aid in the recovery process.
• Bisabolol: As a sesquiterpene alcohol, bisabolol has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe sunburned skin, reduce redness, and promote skin regeneration.
• Α-bisabolol acetate: This sesquiterpene ester also exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote the healing of sunburned skin.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for sunburn.

• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to alleviate sunburn pain and irritation.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to prevent infection and reduce redness and swelling associated with sunburn.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to provide a deep sense of calm and relaxation, which can help to reduce stress and promote the body's natural healing processes in response to sunburn.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for sunburn.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning when they are at their highest potency and quality.
2. Clean and dry the flowers thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris in 24 to 48 hours.
3. Steep 1 part of the dried flowers in 2 parts of high-proof spirit like vodka for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for at least 4 weeks before using it to allow the flavors to mature.

10. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with sunburn because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that quickly soothe and calm the skin.

The herb's unique properties help to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with sunburn, allowing for faster healing and relief from pain.

Additionally, Kansas coneflower's antioxidant-rich extracts help to protect the skin from further damage caused by UV radiation, promoting healthy skin regeneration and a reduced risk of long-term damage.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkaloids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and swelling associated with sunburn, promoting faster healing and skin repair.
• Iridoid glycosides: Echinacoside has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from further damage and promote the healing process after sunburn.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by sunburn, promoting faster recovery and skin health.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, making it effective in soothing and reducing sunburn pain.
• Leaves: Contain antioxidants that help protect the skin from further damage and promote healing.
• Buds: May possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in sunburned skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest roots of echinacea angustifolia in late fall or early spring when plants are dormant for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested roots to a moisture content of 10% in a warm well-ventilated area for 2-4 weeks.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids and store the tincture in dark glass bottles.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with sunburn is Aloe Vera, Calendula, and Lavender.

Aloe Vera soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Calendula's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help prevent infection and speed up the recovery process. Lavender's cooling and calming effects ease pain and discomfort, while also promoting relaxation.

Combining these tinctures can help reduce redness, itching, and peeling, while promoting a faster and more comfortable recovery from sunburn.

What ailments similar to sunburn are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to sunburn/tinctures.html">sunburn/tinctures.html">sunburn that are treated with herbal tinctures are skin irritations and inflammatory conditions.

For example, hives, eczema, and rosacea can be alleviated by using tinctures made from anti-inflammatory herbs like calendula, chamomile, and plantain. These herbs help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and itching.

Additionally, tinctures of soothing herbs like lavender and peppermint can provide relief from minor burns, cuts, and scrapes.