Learn how to make rosemary tincture with fresh or dried rosemary and vodka. This simple recipe captures rosemary’s aroma and beneficial compounds in a concentrated extract that keeps for years.
Rosemary tincture has many traditional uses. You can add a few drops to drinks and recipes or use it as part of your herbal routine. Rosemary has long been associated with memory and focus and is also popular in natural hair care.
Rosemary grows in many gardens around Lake Geneva. When I moved here nearly ten years ago, I remember smelling it everywhere. I later planted rosemary in my own garden, and now I can pick a few sprigs whenever I need them.
I often use fresh rosemary to make rosemary tea, simple syrup, infused olive oil and rosemary salt.
I only recently turned it into a tincture, and it opened up a whole new way for me to use this familiar herb. But let me start from the beginning.
What is rosemary tincture?
Rosemary tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made by soaking fresh or dried rosemary leaves in alcohol for several weeks. The alcohol draws out the plant’s beneficial compounds and preserves them in liquid form.
The finished tincture has a strong rosemary aroma and flavor. Because it is concentrated, you only need a small amount at a time. When stored properly, it can also last for several years.
Ingredients
Rosemary
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, formerly Rosmarinus officinalis) is a hardy evergreen herb from the mint family. Its fragrant, needle-like leaves can be used fresh or dried.
To make a tincture, I prefer fresh rosemary because it gives the tincture a strong aroma, but dried rosemary also works well. I also use this versatile herb in my rosemary hair rinse and rosemary beard oil.
Rosemary also has a fascinating history. It was one of the main ingredients in Queen of Hungary’s Water, an early European alcohol-based perfume and herbal preparation. Its exact origin is unknown, but legend connects it to Queen Elizabeth of Hungary in the 14th century. Over the following centuries, people used different versions as a perfume, skin tonic and traditional remedy.
Alcohol
For this recipe, use 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka. It has a neutral flavor and is easy to find. You can also use brandy for a slightly sweeter flavor or another food-grade alcohol with a similar strength.
If you use stronger grain alcohol, dilute it to the required strength before adding it to the rosemary. Never use rubbing alcohol or any alcohol that is not intended for consumption.
How to make rosemary tincture
First step: Prepare the Rosemary
Gather 1 cup of fresh rosemary leaves or ½ cup of dried rosemary.
If you harvest fresh rosemary, pick it in the morning after the dew has dried. Rosemary is especially aromatic just before it begins to flower.
Remove any damaged leaves and chop the rosemary into smaller pieces. If you wash fresh rosemary, let it dry completely before making the tincture.
I often use dried herbs for tinctures because they contain less moisture. However, fresh rosemary works especially well because its fragrant oils are at their strongest. Both versions make a potent tincture.
Second step: Add the vodka
Place the chopped rosemary in a clean, dry glass jar.
Pour 1 cup of 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka over the rosemary. Press the leaves down and make sure they are completely covered. Add a little more vodka if necessary.
Third step: Let it Infuse
Close the jar with a plastic lid. If you use a metal lid, place a piece of parchment paper between the jar and the lid to help prevent corrosion.
Label the jar and place it in a cool, dark cabinet for 4–6 weeks. Shake it gently every few days and check that the rosemary remains covered with alcohol.
Fourth step: Strain and Store
Strain the tincture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Gently squeeze the rosemary to extract as much liquid as possible, then discard the plant material.
Pour the finished tincture into a clean, dark dropper bottle. Label it with the name and date, then store it tightly closed in a cool, dark place. An alcohol-based tincture can keep for several years when stored properly.
Potential Regenerative Properties of Rosemary
Rosemary has traditionally been valued for its restorative and regenerative properties. It contains aromatic oils and plant compounds such as rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and carnosol. Researchers have studied these compounds for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as their possible effects on memory and hair growth.
However, most studies have tested rosemary powder, essential oil or standardized extracts rather than homemade rosemary tincture. Although the findings are promising, we cannot assume that every rosemary preparation provides the same effects.
Rosemary tincture for memory
Rosemary has long been associated with memory and concentration. Modern research offers some support for this traditional use, although the evidence is still limited.
In one small human study, 28 older adults took different amounts of dried rosemary powder. The lowest dose improved their speed of memory, while the highest dose had a negative effect. This suggests that more rosemary is not necessarily better.
Another study published in Fitoterapia found that rosemary leaf extract improved long-term memory and affected acetylcholinesterase activity. However, this research was conducted on rats, so it does not prove that rosemary tincture can prevent or treat dementia in people.
Rosemary may support memory and focus, but more human research is needed to understand which preparation and dose work best.
Rosemary tincture for hair
Rosemary is also popular in natural hair care. A clinical study found that rosemary essential oil increased hair count in people with androgenetic hair loss after six months of topical use.
This study tested rosemary oil, not rosemary tincture. We therefore cannot claim that the tincture produces the same results. Alcohol-based tinctures may also irritate the scalp when applied undiluted.
If you want to use rosemary specifically for your hair, a properly diluted rosemary oil or my DIY oil for hair growth may be a more suitable option.
Antioxidant compounds
Rosemary contains several compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, including rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and carnosol. These compounds help protect cells from oxidative stress in laboratory studies.
This research helps explain why rosemary has been valued in traditional herbalism. However, there is not enough evidence to say that homemade rosemary tincture boosts the immune system or treats pain and inflammation.
Rosemary Tincture Uses
Rosemary tincture is concentrated, so a small amount goes a long way. You can take it diluted, add it to hair products or use a few drops to flavor food and drinks.
How to take rosemary tincture
You can dilute rosemary tincture in a little water, tea or juice. Some people take tinctures directly under the tongue, but the alcohol can feel strong or irritating. I prefer to dilute mine.
Rosemary tincture dosage
There is no universal dosage for homemade rosemary tincture. Its strength depends on the amount of rosemary, the alcohol concentration and how long it infuses.
If you want to take rosemary tincture for a specific health concern, ask a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional for advice. Start with the smallest suggested amount and never assume that taking more will produce better results.
Rosemary tincture for hair
You can add a small amount of rosemary tincture to shampoo, conditioner or a hair rinse. Always dilute it before applying it to your scalp, as the alcohol may cause dryness or irritation.
Keep in mind that research on rosemary and hair growth has mainly tested rosemary oil rather than alcohol-based tincture. For regular scalp care, rosemary oil or rosemary water may be a gentler option.
In cooking and drinks
Rosemary tincture has a strong herbal flavor. Add it one drop at a time to sauces, candies or other recipes until you reach the flavor you like.
It also works well in cocktails. Just a few drops can add a rosemary note to drinks such as a Killer Queen or gin fizz.
I use homemade orange extract in drinks in a similar way.
Do you enjoy making tinctures and extracts?
How to Make Rosemary Tincture Without Alcohol
For an alcohol-free rosemary extract, replace the vodka with food-grade vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar.
An extract made with glycerin is technically called a glycerite, while one made with vinegar is often called an herbal vinegar. They may extract different compounds and generally do not last as long as an alcohol-based tincture.
Alcohol-free extracts generally have a shorter shelf life than alcohol tinctures. Keep alcohol-free extracts refrigerated and discard them if you notice mold, an unusual smell or any change in appearance.
How Long Does Rosemary Tincture Last?
An alcohol-based rosemary tincture can last for several years. Store it in a tightly closed dark glass bottle in a cool, dry cabinet away from heat and direct sunlight.
For the best quality, I prefer to use mine within three to five years. Glycerin and vinegar extracts have a shorter shelf life and should be stored according to the specific recipe used.
Where Can I Buy Rosemary Tincture?
If you do not want to make your own, you can buy ready-made rosemary tincture online or from a herbal shop.
Check the label for the botanical name, Salvia rosmarinus, as well as the solvent type, alcohol percentage, and suggested serving size. Choose a product from a reputable company that clearly lists its ingredients and extraction ratio.
Rosemary Tincture Safety and Precautions
Rosemary is commonly used in food, but a tincture is much more concentrated. Always use it in small amounts and do not exceed the directions provided by a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional.
Avoid rosemary tincture if you are allergic to rosemary or other plants in the mint family. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or managing a medical condition.
Alcohol-based tinctures are not suitable for children or anyone who needs to avoid alcohol. A glycerite may be an alternative, but it should still be used with professional guidance.
Do not apply the tincture undiluted to your scalp or skin. The alcohol may cause dryness or irritation. Test a small diluted amount first and stop using it if irritation develops.
This homemade tincture is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition.
Rosemary tincture
Add some rosemary aroma to your drinks or enjoy rosemary's medicinal benefits to enhance your hair or memory. Packed in the small dropper bottle, rosemary tincture is a herbal powerhouse that one wants to explore.
Materials
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh rosemary leaves or ½ cup dried rosemary
- 1 cup (240 ml/8 fl oz) 80-proof vodka, plus more if needed to cover the rosemary
Tools
- Dropper bottle
- glass jar with plastic lid
- Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Small funnel
Instructions
- Gather 1 cup of fresh rosemary leaves or ½ cup of dried rosemary. If you harvest fresh rosemary, pick it in the morning after the dew has dried. Rosemary is especially aromatic just before it begins to flower. Remove any damaged leaves and chop the rosemary into smaller pieces. If you wash fresh rosemary, let it dry completely before making the tincture. I often use dried herbs for tinctures because they contain less moisture. However, fresh rosemary works especially well because its fragrant oils are at their strongest. Both versions make a potent tincture.
- Place the chopped rosemary in a clean, dry glass jar. Pour 1 cup of 80-proof (40% ABV) vodka over the rosemary. Press the leaves down and make sure they are completely covered. Add a little more vodka if necessary.
- Close the jar with a plastic lid. If you use a metal lid, place a piece of parchment paper between the jar and the lid to help prevent corrosion. Label the jar and place it in a cool, dark cabinet for 4–6 weeks. Shake it gently every few days and check that the rosemary remains covered with alcohol.
- Strain the tincture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Gently squeeze the rosemary to extract as much liquid as possible, then discard the plant material. Pour the finished tincture into a clean, dark dropper bottle. Label it with the name and date, then store it tightly closed in a cool, dark place. An alcohol-based tincture can keep for several years when stored properly.
Notes
- Store the rosemary tincture in a tightly closed dark glass bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For the best quality, use it within three to five years.
- Label the bottle with the contents and the date it was made.
- Keep the rosemary completely covered with alcohol while it infuses. Add a little more vodka if any leaves rise above the liquid.
- For an alcohol-free version, make a rosemary glycerite with food-grade vegetable glycerin or a vinegar extract with apple cider vinegar. These extracts require a different method and have a shorter shelf life than an alcohol-based tincture.
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wndeelee@ aol.com I would like to join. I made the rosemary tincture with apple cider vinegar. I just put up 3 small dark bottles. I just took my first dose I will take 60 drops a day and see what happens.
Gidday.. How how you’ve found it?
I’ve made a rosemary tincture and it’s due to be bottled. Just would like to know if it does make a difference?
I have the lost book of remedies and am keen!
I’ll be making different tinctures in future. Cheers!
Hello! I hope you’re enjoying your exploration of herbal remedies. The rosemary tincture can indeed make a difference in various health applications, and I wish you success with your future tincture-making endeavors. Cheers!
I’d like to know if you can make a rosemary tincture with olive or coconut oil?
Please and thank you!
Tinctures are concentrated alcohol extracts, there are no oils.
Hey Wendy, what did it do for you? I’m interested in your results.
I think I may try ACV version instead. I’ve found that using alcohol (vodka) has severely damaged my hair…it is sooo dry now :/
Hi Cindy, you should not use undiluted alcohol tincture on your hair or scalp. Either dilute it with shampoo or hair conditioner or use ACV version after the washing.
My suggestion is using avocado oil. You can add it to your shampoo and conditioner as well. Make a hair mask to boot with avocado and egg…
You can add a little boiling water to the drops you are using, it will evaporate the alcohol.
Do you take it orally, or put it on your scalp for hair growth?
Hi Debby, you can use rosemary tincture both ways, depending on your goal:
Orally: to improved circulation and cognitive support, you can take rosemary tincture by mouth. The typical dose is 1–2 droppers diluted in water or tea, 2–3 times a day.
Topically (Scalp): For hair growth, dilute the tincture with water or mix it into a carrier like aloe vera gel before massaging it onto your scalp. This can stimulate circulation and support healthy hair.
I’ve heard from a well known ND, Dr Klinghardt, that Rosemary extract is an excellent mosquito and tick repellent when put on the skin. I haven’t tried it yet, but will give this recipe a go.
Hello, How long can a person take the tincture for of 1 to 2mils once a day?
Generally, for short-term use to address a specific concern or boost mental clarity, 1 to 2 milliliters of rosemary tincture once a day is a common recommendation. However, for long-term use or if you have any underlying health issues or are taking medications, it’s best to seek healthcare professional or herbalist advice to ensure safe and effective usage
I’d like to try this, but you don’t say how big of a jar of the vodka for the 1 cup of fresh rosemary…?
Hi Chelle,
I used approximatelly 250 ml jar but you can use any size of jar. It doesn’t have to be filled till the top
I Made this and at 4weeks jar of rosemary n vodka no longer smells like rosemary but actually smells like it’s off, or slightly rotting vegetation. At week three it still smelled good like rosemary? Should I throw it out n start over? Any tips? I sterilized jar, used plastic cover n had no moister on plant. SD
Hi Susan, sorry to hear that, however your sense of smell is a good indicator of freshness. If the aroma has shifted from the pleasant rosemary scent to something unpleasant, it’s likely a sign that the infusion has spoiled. Even with a sterilized jar, the storage conditions can impact the infusion. Ensure the jar was kept in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
Consider making a smaller batch and observe the process. This can help you identify the problem.
Hi there! I made a batch of rosemary tincture a few months ago but it has turned dark and cloudy. It still tastes and smells OK and still seems to work but I’m wondering if this is natural or am I doing something wrong? If it doesn’t occur naturally, what might I do to fix the problem? Thanks for your help.
Hi Andy! The darkening and cloudiness in your rosemary tincture is normal and happens as the tincture extracts compounds from the plant. It’s safe if it still smells and tastes fine. To improve clarity, filter it through a fine mesh or cheesecloth. Store it in a cool, dark place, and as long as it works well, the change in color is usually okay.
Mine is at 6 weeks and I shall decant it tomorrow. It’s very dark and smells pleasantly of rosemary so I’m assuming it’s ok?
It should look exactly how you describe:)
Has anyone used this for migraines? How did it work fir you?
HI Elaine,
I haven’t tried it for migraines, however rosemary has been traditionally used for headaches and migraines. I haven’t found any scientific evidence though.
Some people use rosemary essential oil or tincture topically or inhale its aroma to alleviate headaches.
I’ve been using it more and more for my daily 4 headaches. It actually is WORKING. fewer headache symptoms and not as much meds. I’m amazed and very happy. Good luck. Give it time.
Thank Jill for your valuable feedback! Vladka
I made rosemary tincture about 6 months ago and I love it! I find my mind has more clarity and I am able to study and retain things much better. I’ve got my second batch going now – hopefully I don’t run out before it’s ready! I take 1 dropper full each morning and it works great for my memory. My hair is also growing healthier and faster. I was skeptical at first, but now I’m a believer! At 60 years old I just passed 3 levels of Tax Preparation classes in 2 months, learned 3 songs in Spanish and feel like no limit to what I can take on now!
Hi Sharon, that’s fantastic to hear! It’s amazing how natural remedies like rosemary tincture can have such positive effects on mental clarity. Your accomplishments are truly impressive. Well done and keep thriving! Vladka
Hi. Thank you very much for detailed instructions. Could you please advise if home grown rosemary has to be washed and dried before infusion? Thank you.
Hi Nia,
I don’t wash it, I just observe and remove any impurities and debris.
Hi Vladka,
I made my rosemary tincture, but then forgot about it! So now it’s at 6 mos. I removed the rosemary and it is very dark, but clear and still smells like rosemary. Is it ok take at that potency, and should I adjust the dosage?
As long as the tincture smells good, looks clear, and hasn’t developed any off smells or visible mold, it should be safe to use. The alcohol in the tincture acts as a preservative. A longer infusion time generally results in a stronger tincture. Since yours has been infused for six months, it is likely more potent than a typical tincture. Begin with a smaller amount, such as 5-10 drops, to gauge its strength and observe how your body responds. You can gradually increase the dosage if needed.
i tuoi suggerimenti sono molto interessanti avrei una domanda,conosci l’erba Ruta
avresti dei suggerimenti su come usarla grazie
saluti Magda
Hi Magda,
Thank you for your message! Yes, I know the herb Rue (Ruta graveolens), also known as common rue. It is traditionally used to treat digestive issues, headaches, and as a nerve relaxant. You can make a tea by using a small amount of leaves (about 1-2 grams in a cup of hot water) and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. However, it’s important not to overdo the dosage, as rue can be toxic in large amounts.
Avoid using rue during pregnancy, as it can cause uterine contractions.
Hope it helps. Vladka
I’m very excited to make the rosemary tincture. Are there any considerations if using ACV instead of alcohol?
Hi Melanie, take into account that ACV has a milder extraction power, so the tincture may be less potent. Additionally, ACV-based tinctures have a shorter shelf life, typically lasting about 6 to 12 months compared to several years for alcohol-based tinctures.
Can I take it every day? Is it hazardous?
Hi Mary, Rosemary tincture is generally safe for daily use in small amounts for most people, as it’s made from a culinary herb. However,
if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, consult your healthcare provider before using it daily.
We have a giant Rosemary plant in the front of our yard. My wife is so good with plants, everything grows with her care. I will harvest most of the plant, and then let it dry, and then macerate it to release all the oils. Then I will strip the leaves off, and then cover it with vodka and let is steep for probably three months. Then pour it off into little bottles. That’s how I do it.
Hi Johny, Wow, that sounds wonderful! 🌿 Having such a thriving rosemary plant must be such a joy — and it sounds like your wife has quite the green thumb. I love your method; it’s such a thoughtful way to capture all that rosemary goodness. Three months of steeping will make it so fragrant and potent. I can just imagine how amazing those little bottles will smell! Thank you for sharing your process.
Hi! I just made the tincture tonight. I washed my rosemary and chopped it, but it wasn’t dry when I put it in my bottle and covered it with the vodka. Is it going to be okay?
HI Lori, You should be fine 🙂 Washing herbs is always a good idea, and a little surface moisture isn’t going to ruin your tincture. The alcohol will prevent spoilage.
Where you do need to be careful is if you were making an oil infusion — water left on the plant can encourage mold. Let me know the result:)