A glycerite is a solution made by dissolving a substance (usually herbs or other plant-based ingredients) in glycerin, which is a natural humectant and a gentle solvent. Glycerin is commonly used in skincare, cosmetics, and herbal preparations because it helps retain moisture and is soothing to the skin.
There are two main types of glycerites:
- Herbal Glycerites: These are made by soaking herbs in glycerin to extract their active compounds. Glycerin acts as a preservative, which helps extend the shelf life of the extract without the need for alcohol. It’s often used in herbal medicine as a milder alternative to alcohol tinctures.
- Cosmetic Glycerites: In cosmetics, glycerites may refer to solutions of active ingredients, such as plant extracts or oils, dissolved in glycerin. They are used to create moisturizers, toners, and serums because glycerin helps hydrate the skin while the active ingredients provide benefits like soothing, antioxidant effects, or anti-inflammatory properties.
Glycerites are popular because they’re alcohol-free, gentle, and non-irritating, making them ideal for sensitive skin or for those who avoid alcohol in their personal care products.
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Here are 9 different recipes for tinctures using glycerine as a base, along with their suggested uses:
1. Lavender Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried lavender flowers
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Combine the dried lavender, glycerine, and distilled water in a jar.
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Seal the jar tightly and shake well.
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Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.
Uses: Calming and soothing; can be used in aromatherapy or added to baths.
2. Chamomile Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried chamomile flowers
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Mix the chamomile, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Seal and shake the mixture.
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Let it infuse in a dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and bottle the tincture.
Uses: Helps with sleep and relaxation; can be consumed in tea or directly as a calming agent.
3. Echinacea Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried echinacea root
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Combine the echinacea root, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Shake well and seal tightly.
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Allow to steep for 4-6 weeks in a dark place, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.
Uses: Supports immune health; can be taken during cold and flu season.
4. Lemon Balm Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried lemon balm leaves
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Mix the lemon balm, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Seal and shake to combine.
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Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and bottle the tincture.
Uses: Helps reduce stress and anxiety; can be taken directly or added to teas.
5. Peppermint Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried peppermint leaves
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Combine peppermint, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Shake well and seal tightly.
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Allow to infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking periodically.
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Strain and store in a glass bottle.
Uses: Aids digestion and relieves headaches; can be taken directly or in tea.
6. Ginger Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried ginger root
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Mix ginger, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Seal and shake.
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Store in a dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and bottle the tincture.
Uses: Supports digestion and alleviates nausea; can be taken directly or in teas.
7. Turmeric Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried turmeric root
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Combine turmeric, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Shake well and seal tightly.
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Let it sit in a dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking periodically.
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Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.
Uses: Anti-inflammatory properties; can be used for joint pain or added to smoothies.
8. Rosemary Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried rosemary leaves
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Mix rosemary, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Seal and shake to combine.
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Store for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking occasionally.
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Strain and bottle the tincture.
Uses: Supports memory and concentration; can be taken directly or added to dishes.
9. Hibiscus Glycerite
Ingredients:
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1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
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2 cups vegetable glycerine
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1 cup distilled water
Instructions:
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Combine hibiscus, glycerine, and water in a jar.
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Seal tightly and shake.
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Let steep for 4-6 weeks in a dark place, shaking