DIY Elderberry Tincture

If there's one herb that has earned a permanent place in many home herbal cabinets, it's elderberry.

For generations, elderberries have been traditionally used to support seasonal wellness and a healthy immune system. While elderberry syrup often gets the spotlight, a glycerite (an alcohol-free tincture made with vegetable glycerin) is another simple way to enjoy this time-honored herb. It's shelf-stable, naturally sweet, and easy for the whole family to use.

Whether you're just getting started with herbalism or looking for another way to preserve elderberries, this beginner-friendly recipe is a great place to start.

Prefer to skip the DIY? Earthley's Elderberry Elixir offers the convenience of a ready-to-use herbal blend.

DIY Elderberry Tincture

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried elderberries (Sambucus nigra)
• Vegetable glycerin
• Filtered water

Supplies

• Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Amber dropper bottle for storage

Directions

Step 1: Fill the Jar

Fill a clean glass jar about halfway with the dried elderberries.

Step 2: Make the Glycerin Mixture

Combine 3 parts vegetable glycerin with 1 part filtered water and stir well.

Step 3: Cover the Elderberries

Pour the glycerin mixture over the berries until they are completely covered, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top of the jar.

Step 4: Infuse

Seal the jar tightly and shake well. Store it in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking every few days.

Step 5: Strain

Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, pressing the elderberries gently to extract as much liquid as possible.

Step 6: Bottle

Transfer the finished tincture to a labeled amber dropper bottle and store it in a cool, dark place.

Suggested Use

Many families enjoy elderberry as part of their everyday wellness routine.

• Adults: 1–2 dropperfuls daily.
• Children: Many herbalists use a few drops up to 1 dropperful, depending on age and individual preference.

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

Why Elderberry?

Elderberries have been traditionally used for generations to:

• Support a healthy immune system.*
• Promote seasonal wellness.*
• Provide naturally occurring antioxidants.*
• Encourage everyday wellness as part of a healthy lifestyle.*
• Their naturally sweet, fruity flavor also makes them a favorite herb for the whole family.

Tips for Success

• Use only properly dried elderberries intended for herbal use.
• Label your jar with the ingredients and the date you started it.
• Shake the jar every few days during the infusion period.
• Store the finished glycerite in a cool, dark place.
• Making your own tincture is a simple way to keep this traditional herb on hand year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this recipe alcohol-free?

Yes. This recipe uses vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol, creating a naturally sweet herbal glycerite.

Can I use fresh elderberries?

This recipe is designed for dried elderberries. Fresh berries contain much more moisture and require different preparation methods.

How long does an elderberry glycerite last?

When stored properly in a cool, dark place, glycerites are generally best used within about 1–2 years.

Can I combine elderberry with other herbs?

Absolutely. Elderberry is commonly paired with herbs like echinacea, ginger, cinnamon, or elderflower in traditional herbal preparations.

Can children use this tincture?

Many families choose glycerites because they're alcohol-free and naturally sweet. If you have questions about using herbs with your child, consult your healthcare provider.

Want a Ready-to-Use Option?

If you'd rather skip the DIY, Earthley offers convenient herbal blends made with elderberries and other complementary herbs.

Elderberry Elixir Alcohol – An alcohol herbal extract formulated to support everyday immune wellness.*

Elderberry Elixir Alcohol Free – A family-friendly gentle support, thoughtfully crafted with a sweeter-taste for children in mind.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.