By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Grief
Herbal tinctures for grief are concentrated plant extracts that have been used for centuries to support emotional well-being and alleviate symptoms of grief.
These potent brews work by gently toning the nervous system, calming the mind, and soothing the heart. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with grief include Ashwagandha, known for its adaptogenic properties that reduce stress and anxiety, and St. John's Wort, which has been shown to lift mood and promote feelings of joy.
By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can find solace in the natural world and begin to heal from loss, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for grief, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Valeriana officinalis
- 2. Hypericum perforatum
- 3. Passiflora incarnata
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Asclepias syriaca
- 6. Ginkgo biloba
- 7. Avena sativa
- 8. Crataegus monogyna
- 9. Tilia platyphyllos
- 10. Rosmarinus officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for grief?
- What ailments similar to grief are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian tinctures helps with grief because it promotes a sense of calmness and relaxation, allowing individuals to process their emotions more effectively.
The herb's sedative properties help reduce anxiety and stress, creating an environment for introspection and emotional release. Additionally, valerian tinctures can aid in improving sleep quality, which is often disrupted during times of grief.
By promoting a restful night's sleep, individuals can wake up feeling refreshed and more able to cope with their emotions, ultimately facilitating the grieving process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with grief.
- Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene acid found in Valeriana officinalis, valerenic acid has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to calm the mind and body during times of grief.
- Isovaleric acid: This organic acid acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to cope with emotional pain associated with grief.
- Valeranone: A valerenic acid derivative, valeranone has been found to possess sedative and muscle relaxant properties, potentially reducing the physical tension and emotional distress that often accompanies grief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for grief.
- Roots: Rich in valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the plant's sedative and anxiolytic properties.
- Roots: Contain valerianic acid, which helps to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation.
- Roots: High in valepotriates, a class of compounds that contribute to the plant's sedative and muscle relaxant effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for grief.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is at its peak potency level.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm dry place for 1 to 2 weeks to remove excess moisture content.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a 1 to 5 ratio.
- Store the mixture in a glass jar and allow it to steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with grief because of its adaptogenic properties, allowing it to address the complex emotional landscape that often accompanies loss.
The herb's constituents, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to modulate mood and reduce feelings of sadness and anxiety.
By promoting a sense of calm and emotional balance, St John's Wort tinctures can provide comfort during times of mourning, helping individuals process their emotions and begin the healing journey.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with grief.
- Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has been shown to have a positive effect on mood regulation and may help alleviate symptoms of grief by promoting a sense of calm and reducing anxiety.
- Hypericin: As a potent antioxidant and phenolic compound, hypericin may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to feelings of grief and emotional pain.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with grief, promoting emotional balance and well-being.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for grief.
- Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antidepressant properties, helping to alleviate grief-related emotional pain.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and hyperforin, the leaves have a calming effect on the nervous system, aiding in the management of grief and promoting emotional balance.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum contain a higher concentration of hypericin and pseudohypericin, which have been shown to have antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe grief and emotional distress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for grief.
- Gather 1 part dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the ingredients and seal the jar leaving 1 inch of space at the top.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking it daily.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
- Discard the solids and store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
3. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with grief because it has a profound impact on the emotional body, allowing individuals to process and release pent-up emotions.
The herb's natural adaptogenic properties help to calm the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress that often accompany loss. Additionally, maypop's subtle sedative effects promote relaxation and clarity, enabling individuals to confront their grief in a peaceful and reflective state.
This allows for a deeper understanding and acceptance of their emotions, facilitating a more rapid and natural healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with grief.
- Harmane: Harmane is a beta-carboline alkaloid that has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of grief-related anxiety and insomnia.
- Isoferulic acid: Isoferulic acid is a phenolic acid that has been found to have a sedative effect and may help reduce stress and anxiety related to grief, promoting relaxation and calmness.
- Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid that has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help reduce anxiety and stress related to grief, promoting relaxation and reducing emotional distress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for grief.
- Roots: They are the primary part used for their sedative and anxiolytic properties, which help alleviate symptoms of grief and stress.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which contribute to their calming effects and are often used in tinctures for grief.
- Fruits: The pulp of the fruits is used, as it contains a high amount of passifloric acid, which has been traditionally used to help manage stress and anxiety associated with grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for grief.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves on a sunny day in late summer.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 40°c for 2 days.
- Combine the dried plant material with 500 milliliters of 45% ethanol and stir well.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with grief because it has a profound calming effect on the mind and body.
The herb's soothing properties can help to ease emotional turmoil, promoting a sense of serenity and tranquility in those struggling with loss. By reducing anxiety and stress levels, English lavender tincture allows individuals to process their emotions more effectively, fostering a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.
This, in turn, can facilitate a healthier grieving process and ultimately lead to emotional healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with grief.
- Linalool: A terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures, linalool has a calming and sedative effect, which can help alleviate emotional distress and promote relaxation in individuals experiencing grief.
- Linalyl acetate: Another terpene present in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures, linalyl acetate has a soothing effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calmness, which can be beneficial during periods of grief.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound found in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce emotional pain and inflammation associated with grief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for grief.
- Flowers: They are used due to their calming and soothing properties, which can help alleviate emotional distress associated with grief.
- Leaves: They contain essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can aid in emotional healing and reduction of stress related to grief.
- Stems: They contribute to the overall medicinal properties of the plant, providing a subtle yet supportive effect for emotional balance during times of grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for grief.
- Gather 250g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and 750ml of high-proof alcohol like ethanol or glycerin.
- Combine the dried flowers with the alcohol or glycerin in a clean glass jar to create a mixture.
- Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar occasionally to aid infusion.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids.
- Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years after preparation.
5. Asclepias syriaca
Milkweed tinctures helps with grief because of its unique ability to support emotional resilience.
The plant's natural compounds, such as alkaloids and saponins, work to soothe and calm the nervous system, allowing individuals to process and integrate their emotions in a healthy way. As a result, milkweed tinctures can help reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and despair that often accompany grief, promoting a sense of peace and acceptance.
By supporting emotional equilibrium, milkweed tinctures provide a gentle yet powerful tool for navigating the challenging landscape of grief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asclepias syriaca tinctures that help with grief.
- Cardenolides: These compounds, particularly cardenolide C, may help alleviate grief by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to emotional distress.
- Naphthoquinones: Naphthoquinones, such as asclepiodine, may aid in grief recovery by acting as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, helping to calm the nervous system and promote emotional balance.
- Flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Asclepias syriaca, like quercetin and kaempferol, may help alleviate grief by exhibiting anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calmness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milkweed used to make tinctures for grief.
- Roots: As a source of compounds that may help with emotional healing and stress relief.
- Leaves: As a source of compounds that may help with anxiety and stress relief.
- Flowers: As a source of compounds that may help with emotional healing and mood elevation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milkweed for grief.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh or 3 parts of dried asclepias syriaca roots and stems in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Chop the asclepias syriaca roots and stems into small pieces weighing about 1 kg or 2.2 pounds.
- Combine the chopped asclepias syriaca with 3 parts of 95% grain alcohol in a clean 1-liter glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking it every week to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
6. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with grief because its subtle yet potent essence gently calms the emotional turmoil that often accompanies loss.
The ancient plant's properties have been traditionally used to soothe the heart and mind, promoting a sense of balance and clarity in the face of sorrow.
As the tincture works to ease emotional distress, it allows individuals to process their feelings with greater ease, ultimately leading to a more peaceful and accepting acceptance of their loss.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with grief.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene helps alleviate stress and anxiety, which can often accompany grief, by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate the emotional and psychological distress associated with grief by reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.
- Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety that can accompany grief, by protecting neurons and reducing inflammation in the brain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for grief.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are used due to their ability to support mood balance and emotional healing.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used for their potential to promote emotional release and grief resolution.
- Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds are used to support heart healing and emotional renewal, which can be helpful during times of grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for grief.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in the fall when they are mature and dry the leaves thoroughly.
- Dry the leaves further in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure out 100 grams of the dried ginkgo biloba leaves and add them to a jar.
- Add 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka to the jar and seal it tightly for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
7. Avena sativa
Oats tinctures helps with grief because they soothe the emotional turmoil that often accompanies loss.
The calming properties of oats tinctures can ease feelings of anxiety, fear, and overwhelm, allowing individuals to process their emotions more smoothly.
Additionally, oats have been traditionally used to comfort and calm the mind, body, and spirit, promoting a sense of relaxation and tranquility that can be especially beneficial during times of mourning.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa tinctures that help with grief.
- Avenacoside: Avenacoside has been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial in managing grief.
- Avenalumic acid: Avenalumic acid has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, making it easier to cope with the emotional pain of grief.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid has antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to the emotional and physical symptoms associated with grief, such as anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make tinctures for grief.
- Roots: They are used for their calming and sedative properties to help ease emotional distress associated with grief.
- Leaves: They are used for their nervine and adaptogenic properties to help the body and mind adapt to stress and emotional turmoil.
- Seeds: They are used for their anxiolytic properties to help alleviate anxiety and promote emotional balance during times of grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for grief.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of the dried roots of avena sativa on a sunny day after 2 years of maturity.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces and store them in an airtight container for 2 weeks.
- Combine the chopped roots with 40-50% vodka in a 1:5 ratio and store in a glass jar for 2 months.
- Shake the jar daily for 2 minutes to ensure the roots are fully saturated with the vodka for 60 days.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the avena sativa tincture.
8. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn tinctures helps with grief because it is a natural adaptogen that gently soothes the emotional turmoil often accompanying loss.
The heart-healthy herb calms anxiety and stress, allowing individuals to process their emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Hawthorn's gentle sedative properties promote relaxation, facilitating a deeper connection with one's inner self, while its subtle energizing effects encourage movement towards healing and renewal.
By reducing feelings of anguish and despair, hawthorn tinctures can help facilitate a more peaceful and transformative grieving experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with grief.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate emotional stress and promote a sense of calm, which can be beneficial during periods of grief.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have a neuroprotective effect, which may help mitigate the emotional impact of grief by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties, which may help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of relaxation and calm, potentially aiding in the grieving process.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for grief.
- Leaves: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are believed to have a calming effect on the emotions associated with grief.
- Fruits: Rich in anthocyanins, which may help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of grief by promoting relaxation and emotional balance.
- Buds: Contain bioflavonoids and other compounds that may help stabilize mood and reduce feelings of sadness and despair associated with grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for grief.
- Gather 25-50 parts of fresh or dried crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers in a clean container.
- Combine the gathered plant material with 50-60% ethanol in a ratio of 1:3 by weight for steeping.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a glass bottle and label it for storage in a cool dark place.
9. Tilia platyphyllos
Broad-leaved lime tinctures helps with grief because its botanical properties have a profound impact on the emotional body.
The tincture's calming and soothing essence can gently quiet the mind and emotions, allowing for a deeper processing of pain and loss.
As it works to ease feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, it also fosters a sense of connection to one's heart, facilitating a gentle release of emotions and a path towards healing and renewal.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia platyphyllos tinctures that help with grief.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, help alleviate grief by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can contribute to emotional balance and reduced stress.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids help with grief by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety through their sedative and anxiolytic properties, making it easier to cope with emotional pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help with grief by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate the negative impacts of stress and promote emotional resilience.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make tinctures for grief.
- Leaves: They are used for their calming and soothing effects, helping to reduce stress and anxiety associated with grief.
- Flowers: They are used for their gentle, antidepressant properties, promoting emotional balance and comfort during times of loss.
- Barks: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, helping to reduce emotional pain and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for grief.
- Harvest 100g of fresh tilia platyphyllos leaves and flowers in the morning after sunrise to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content to 12%.
- Combine the dried plant material with 500ml of vodka at a ratio of 1:5 to create the tincture base.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and store the resulting tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
10. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary tinctures helps with grief because it possesses a unique ability to soothe the emotional pain associated with loss.
The herb's calming properties can help alleviate feelings of sadness, anxiety, and despair, allowing individuals to process their emotions in a more balanced manner. Additionally, rosemary's uplifting aroma can stimulate memory recall, enabling individuals to reflect on cherished moments with loved ones who have passed away.
This gentle yet powerful aid can provide comfort and solace during the grieving process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis tinctures that help with grief.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of grief, such as sadness and emotional turmoil.
- Carnosic acid: This diterpene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with grief, promoting emotional balance and well-being.
- Bornyl acetate: This monoterpene has a calming and sedative effect, which can help regulate emotional responses to grief, promoting relaxation and reducing feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for grief.
- Leaves: Used for their calming and antidepressant properties to help alleviate symptoms of grief.
- Flowers: Utilized for their emotional balancing and mood-enhancing properties to support individuals dealing with grief.
- Buds: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to promote emotional healing and reduce stress associated with grief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for grief.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers at peak potency on a sunny morning.
- Chop the rosmarinus officinalis leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife for best extraction.
- Combine the chopped rosmarinus officinalis with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label it.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for grief?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with grief is a blend of Ashwagandha, St. John's Wort, and Lavender.
Ashwagandha supports emotional balance and stress relief, while St. John's Wort helps to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with grief. Lavender promotes relaxation, calmness, and a sense of peace, making it easier to process and heal from emotional pain.
This synergistic blend can help to soothe and calm the mind, body, and spirit, supporting the healing process and promoting emotional well-being.
What ailments similar to grief are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to grief/tinctures.html">grief/tinctures.html">grief that are treated with herbal tinctures are anxiety, depression, and stress.
Tinctures of herbs like St. John's Wort, Ashwagandha, and Valerian root can help alleviate symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and insomnia.
These herbs have been traditionally used to support emotional well-being and promote a sense of calm and balance.