Learn how to make a traditional herbal tincture using dried calendula flowers, chamomile flowers, and lavender buds. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners looking to expand their home herbal apothecary with a beautiful botanical blend.
There’s something timeless about working with flowers. Their colors, aromas, and textures have made them a favorite in traditional herbal preparations for centuries. If you're looking for a simple project that introduces you to tincture making, this floral blend is a wonderful place to start.
Combining dried calendula, chamomile, and lavender creates an aromatic tincture that's easy to prepare and beautiful to display in your home apothecary.
Note: This recipe is shared for educational purposes only. Herbal traditions vary, and individual herbs may not be appropriate for everyone. Always research the herbs you choose to work with and consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have questions about their use.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This blend is a favorite for beginner herbalists because it:
- Uses easy-to-find dried flowers
- Requires only a handful of supplies
- Creates a naturally fragrant tincture
- Makes a beautiful addition to a home herbal collection
- Is an enjoyable weekend DIY project
Ingredients
- ½ cup dried calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis)
- ¼ cup dried chamomile flowers (Matricaria chamomilla)
- 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds (Lavandula angustifolia)
- 2 cups 80-proof vodka or another food-grade alcohol suitable for tincture making
- 1 clean 16-ounce glass jar with a lid
- Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer
- Amber glass bottles
- Labels
Step 1: Prepare Your Herbs
Inspect your dried herbs and remove any stems or debris if needed.
Add the calendula, chamomile, and lavender to your clean glass jar. The herbs should fill the jar loosely, allowing room for the alcohol to circulate freely.
Step 2: Cover with Alcohol
Pour the alcohol slowly over the herbs until they're completely covered.
Aim for at least one inch of liquid above the plant material.
If necessary, use a clean spoon to gently press the flowers below the surface and remove any trapped air bubbles.
Step 3: Seal and Label
Close the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake.
Label the jar with:
- Garden Glow Herbal Tincture
- Ingredients
- Date started
- Alcohol used
A good label helps you stay organized as your collection grows.
Step 4: Let Time Do the Work
Store the jar in a cool, dark cabinet.
Shake it every day or two during the extraction period.
Many traditional tincture preparations allow herbs to steep for approximately 4 to 6 weeks, although methods can vary depending on the botanicals being used.
Step 5: Strain
Once the extraction period is complete:
- Line a bowl with cheesecloth.
- Slowly pour the tincture through the cloth.
- Press the herbs gently to collect as much liquid as possible.
- Compost or discard the spent herbs.
The finished tincture should be clear and fragrant.
Step 6: Bottle Your Tincture
Using a small funnel, transfer the strained tincture into amber glass bottles.
Label each bottle with:
- Blend name
- Date bottled
- Botanical ingredients
Store the bottles in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
Tips for Success
Using high-quality dried herbs can make a noticeable difference in both appearance and aroma.
Choose flowers that still have vibrant natural color and a characteristic fragrance.
Keep all plant material fully submerged during extraction, and use clean, dry equipment throughout the process.
Taking a few minutes to organize your supplies before you begin makes tincture making more enjoyable and helps ensure consistent results.
Make It Your Own
One of the most rewarding parts of herbalism is experimenting with new combinations.
After you've tried this floral blend, consider creating your own recipes using herbs such as:
- Lemon Balm
- Rose Petals
- Hibiscus Flowers
- Peppermint
- Elder Berries
- Orange Peel
Keeping a notebook of your favorite blends is a great way to build your own personal herbal recipe collection.
Start Your Herbal Projects with LA Herb
Whether you're crafting your first tincture or adding another bottle to your growing apothecary, quality botanicals are the foundation of every successful project.
At LA Herb, you'll find premium dried flowers, leaves, roots, berries, mushrooms, bark, seeds, and traditional herbs sourced from around the world. Our wide selection makes it easy to explore new recipes and discover the plants that inspire your next creation.
Browse our collection and start building your herbal apothecary one recipe at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute one of the flowers?
Many herbalists enjoy experimenting with different botanical combinations. If making substitutions, take time to research the traditional preparation methods and characteristics of each herb before beginning.
Do I have to use dried herbs?
Dried herbs are a popular choice because they're easy to store, available year-round, and provide consistency when preparing tinctures.
Why use amber bottles?
Amber glass helps reduce light exposure and is commonly used for storing herbal tinctures over longer periods.
How long can I keep my tincture?
Storage time depends on the ingredients, alcohol used, and storage conditions. Proper labeling and storing bottles in a cool, dark place are common practices for maintaining quality.