DIY Immune Boosting Tincture Recipes: Herbs, Spices and Plants for Wellness

Immune Boosting Tincture Recipes: Herbal Extracts That Support Your Body's Defenses

Looking to naturally support your immune system? Herbal tinctures made from immune boosting herbs, spices, and other plants are an easy and effective option. Tinctures harness the beneficial compounds of herbs in a concentrated, fast-acting liquid form. In this comprehensive guide, learn how to make your own tinctures using key immune-enhancing botanicals.

Top Immunity Promoting Herbs for Tinctures

These potent medicinal herbs have been traditionally used and scientifically studied for their immune-modulating effects:

• Echinacea - Stimulates white blood cell production to fight infection. Also has antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity.
• Elderberry - Rich in antioxidants and anthocyanins. May enhance immune cell response and help prevent/shorten colds and flu.
• Astragalus - Boosts T-cell and natural killer cell activity. Also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Garlic - Contains allicin, a sulfur compound with strong antimicrobial and immunity enhancing effects.

Other Beneficial Botanicals for Immune Tinctures

In addition to key immune herbs, certain spices, mushrooms and other plants also offer immune-modulating properties:

• Turmeric - Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects that may enhance immune function.
• Ginger - Gingerol and shogaol impart antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Cinnamon - High source of antioxidants. May help fight bacteria, fungi and viruses while reducing inflammation.
• Reishi mushroom - Polysaccharides activate immune system components like T-cells, macrophages and natural killer cells.

Other Complementary Ingredients for Immune Tinctures

For an extra immune boost, consider adding:

• Vitamin C - Potent antioxidant that enhances immune cell function and activity.
• Propolis - Beeswax resin with over 300 compounds that has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Peppermint - Helps thin mucus, open airways and relieve coughing and congestion.
• Thyme - Flavonoids like apigenin possess antibacterial and antiviral activity against respiratory infections.

How to Make an Herbal Tincture for Immune Support

Making your own tincture at home is simple. Here are the basic steps:

1. Gather fresh or dried herbs, spices, mushrooms etc. and chop/crush into small pieces.
2. Fill a mason jar with the plant matter, leaving some headspace at the top.
3. Pour in vodka, glycerine or apple cider vinegar until all plant matter is submerged. Vinegar is best for fresh plant extracts while vodka and glycerine work for dried material.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store away from direct light for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth lined sieve into an amber dropper bottle, composting the solids.

That's all it takes to make a simple single herb or ingredient tincture!

Basic Immune Boosting Tincture Recipes

Try these basic tincture blends for supporting immune function:

Elderberry Echinacea Tincture

• 14 cup dried elderberries
• 14 cup dried echinacea leaves and flowers
• 1 cup vodka or apple cider vinegar

Hot Immune Tonic Tincture

• 3 tablespoons freshly grated turmeric
• 3 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup vodka or apple cider vinegar

Ultra Immune Extract Tincture

• 14 cup dried astragalus
• 14 cup dried elderberry
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 12 teaspoon ground reishi mushroom
• 1 cup vodka or glycerine

How to Take Herbal Tinctures for Immune Support

Most tinctures are taken by the dropperful:

• Standard dosing is 12 to 1 dropperful, 2 to 3 times per day.
• Tinctures are fast acting as the liquid absorbs directly into the bloodstream under the tongue.
• Swish tincture in mouth for 30 seconds before swallowing for maximum absorption.
• Best taken diluted in a little water or juice to improve the flavor.
• Shake bottle well before each use to distribute contents evenly.

For immune support during cold/flu season, take tinctures daily. Most are safe to use for extended periods, but consult an herbalist or naturopath for guidance on proper dosing and duration.

Tincture Recipies for Specific Health Needs

Beyond general immune boosting, here are some targeted tincture combinations for specific health uses:

Preventative Immune Tonic

• 2 parts astragalus
• 1 part reishi mushroom
• 1 part elderberry

Cold & Flu Fighter

• 2 parts elderberry
• 1 part echinacea
• 12 part ginger
• 12 part thyme
• 14 part cayenne pepper

Allergy Relief Tincture

• 2 parts stinging nettle leaf
• 1 part elderflower
• 1 part peppermint leaf

Cough & Congestion Blend

• 2 parts mullein leaf
• 1 part thyme leaf
• 1 part licorice root
• 12 part cinnamon bark

The Takeaway

Herbal tinctures made from time-tested natural botanicals provide a safe, effective way to help keep your immune system strong and resilient. Use single or combination tinctures proactively to help prevent illness and shorten duration if you do get sick. With the simple DIY instructions and recipes provided, you can easily make your own targeted blends for boosting immunity!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.