The Beginner’s Guide to Making Tinctures and Salves

Making tinctures and salves at home is surprisingly approachable — and it connects you directly to your plants. Lhasa Karnak sells everything you need in ounce quantities so you can start small and learn with confidence.

Tinctures (Alcohol Extracts):

  • Fill a clean glass jar halfway with dried herb (Echinacea, Dandelion, or Ashwagandha are great starters).

  • Cover completely with 80–100 proof alcohol (vodka or brandy).

  • Label, seal, and store in a dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking gently each day.

  • Strain through cheesecloth and bottle in amber glass.

Salves (Oil & Beeswax Blends):

  • Start with an infused oil (see our previous post).

  • Warm gently and stir in grated beeswax until melted (roughly 1 oz wax per 8 oz oil).

  • Pour into tins and let cool.

Use calendula oil for skin, comfrey for muscles, or lavender for calm.
You’ll never see “handmade” the same way again.