A glycerite is an alcohol-free herbal extract made using vegetable glycerin as the solvent, offering a sweet, gentle alternative to traditional tinctures. It’s a popular choice for those avoiding alcohol, including many families with children.
- Fill a clean glass jar about one-third full with dried herb (or two-thirds full with fresh, finely chopped herb).
- Mix a solvent blend of roughly 60–70% vegetable glycerin and 30–40% distilled water.
- Pour the glycerin-water mixture over the herb, making sure it’s fully submerged.
- Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain through cheesecloth, pressing out as much liquid as possible.
- Bottle in dark glass containers.
Secret Tips
- Glycerin is a weaker solvent than alcohol, so daily shaking (without skipping days) matters more here than it does for tinctures.
- Keep the glycerin-to-water ratio on the higher end (closer to 70/30) — this improves shelf life and helps prevent mold, since glycerin lacks alcohol’s natural preservative strength.
- Use only food-grade, USP vegetable glycerin — never glycerin intended for industrial or cosmetic-only use.
- Fresh herb introduces extra moisture, so if using fresh plant material, reduce the water portion of your solvent blend slightly to compensate.
Herb Examples Best Suited to Glycerite
- Elderberry — a popular choice for a kid-friendly, alcohol-free immune-supportive syrup-like extract.
- Lemon Balm — extracts well in glycerin while retaining its gentle, calming quality.
- Chamomile — a mild flower suited to the gentler glycerin extraction method.
- Catnip — commonly glycerited for use with children due to its mild nature.
Q&A
Q: Is a glycerite as strong as a tincture? A: Generally no — glycerin is a milder solvent than alcohol, so glycerites tend to be gentler and less concentrated than alcohol-based tinctures.
Q: How long does a glycerite last? A: Typically 1–3 years when properly made with a sufficiently high glycerin ratio; refrigeration after opening helps extend freshness.
Q: Can I use glycerin alone without water? A: Pure glycerin is quite thick and can be harder to fully extract certain compounds; a small amount of water (around 30–40%) generally improves extraction.
Q: Is a glycerite safe for children? A: Glycerites are commonly chosen specifically because they’re alcohol-free, making them a popular option for children, though it’s still best to consult a pediatrician before use.
Q: Why does my glycerite taste very sweet? A: Vegetable glycerin has a naturally sweet taste, which is part of what makes glycerites more palatable, especially for herbs with a bitter or strong flavor.
Safety Tips
- Use only food-grade, USP vegetable glycerin.
- Watch for any cloudiness or off smell, which can indicate mold or spoilage, especially in lower-glycerin-ratio batches.
- Consult a healthcare provider before using glycerites medicinally, especially for children, pregnancy, or nursing.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
