How to Make Dandelion Root Tincture

This easy to make Dandelion Root Tincture can be used to help ease indigestion, calm gout symptoms and so much more.

Dandelion

Dandelions are a common weed that many try to get rid of in their lawns without realising how valuable they are.

Traditionally, this plant has been used to make medicine for centuries, with its anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for treating arthritis and gout. When used topically, it can also help to relieve achy, sore muscles and joints and tension. 

For this recipe, it is best to use fresh dandelion root that has just ben harvested from your garden. The best time to do this is in autumn. Just dig up the root as best you can. Just make sure you dig up dandelion where you know no pesticides have been used or animals have peed.

Then, remove the green parts from the roots and scrub them well. 

Once clean, let the roots dry at room temperature. When dry, they are ready to use in this recipe.

Tinctures

Tinctures are easy to make herbal remedies. They usually consist of herbs infused in vodka for about one month.

The most important thing is time, though this requires no effort on your part.

For most tinctures, vodka will work. Grain alcohol like Everclear is great for root tinctures as its harder consistency, though this can be hard for many people to then take.

Vodka also has a fairly neutral taste, so the final product shouldn’t have an alcohol flavour.

As an alternative to vodka, rum, whisky, brandy or gin can also be used.

For an alcohol free tincture, apple cider vinegar or food grade (vegetable) glycerine can be used. That said, I have never used these myself.

Cloudy Tinctures

You may find that some tinctures get cloudy or milky in appearance.

This is usually Inulin, a healthy starch and prebiotic. If your tincture does develop this, keep it all and just shake well before using.

More Dandelion Resources

• Growing, Harvesting and Using Dandelion
• Garlic Braised Dandelion Greens
• Dandelion Cookies
• Dandelion Lotion Bars
• Homemade Dandelion Oil

Dandelion Tea or Tincture 

Dandelion tea is a lovely general tonic. To make tea, simply infuse fresh or dried leaves in a mug of hot water for up to five minutes.

A tincture made from dandelion is much more potent than a tea. The alcohol draws out the medical compounds of the plant, making it more effective than steeping the plant in water for tea.

So, for strong health benefits, a tincture is better than a tea.

Storing Dandelion Root Tincture

This tincture should be stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool, dark place. 

It should last a few years, though it may start to lose its potency after about 12 months.

Before Using this Tincture

Dandelion is usually safe to use for most people. However, if you are already on medications, please discuss with your healthcare practitioner before making this tincture.

• Pregnant or nursing women should avoid as it is unknown how it may affect you and the baby.
• Those with gallbladder issues or have a blockage in the bile duct should also avoid dandelion.
• If you are allergic to plants such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds and daisies, you may react to dandelions.
• The milky sap of dandelions may cause itchiness, irritation or reaction on the skin.
• There is also a rare fibre in dandelions called inulin that some people are sensitive too or may react to as well.

Using This Tincture

This tincture is helpful for liver issues, gout, for cleansing blood, as a detoxifier and digestive aid.  It has been said that dandelion root has been used to help enable the passing of kidney stones.

• For general health, take no more than ½ teaspoon twice a day.
• For indigestion, take no more than 10 drops in water every hour as needed.
• Also, try drinking it with hot water as a tea and sweeten it with honey. Tea made from dandelion roots is a powerful antioxidant and great for detoxing the whole body. Add a quarter of a teaspoon of tincture to a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
• For gout or liver issues, try 1 teaspoon, 3 times a day.
• It is also great for cleansing the body and boosting energy.
• This tincture may also help when used to treat UTIs, constipation and fluid retention

Ingredients for Dandelion Root Tincture

For this tincture, you will need:

• Dandelion Roots – The leaves and flowers can be used if you wish
• Vodka – at least 60% proof

Making Dandelion Root Tincture

Clean the dandelion roots and cut into small, even-sized chunks.

Add the roots to a glass jar. The jar should be about ½ full of roots. If using leaves and flowers as well, make sure to compact them down, filling the jar no more than ¾ full.

Fill the jar with vodka until the jar is full and everything is completely covered.

Add the lid and sit in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, though 6 to 8 weeks is better.

Check the jar on a regular basis to make sure the dandelion stays below the vodka. Add more vodka if needed.

Shake every now and then. The ingredients should turn brown during this time period.

Once ready, strain into a clean, amber coloured glass jar using a cheesecloth or super fine meshed stainer.

Secure the lid and store in a cool dark place.

If making an alcohol-free tincture, cover the plant material with 3 parts food-grade glycerin to 1 part distilled water. Proceed, following the same instructions as per the alcohol tincture.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.