Newsletter / Blog


2020-01-24
Capsule or Tincture?


There are so many misconceptions surrounding the effectiveness of methods used in administrating herbal medicine.  Hopefully this newsletter will answer a few questions you might have.

Questions surround, which method is better; capsules or tinctures.  

In general, tinctures are considered more effective than capsules as they are more easily absorbed by the body.

In the other hand capsules come with more measured doses that help in the effectiveness of treatment.  They also boast the benefit of being tasteless.

TO find out which herbal administration is better, lets take a look at the pros and cons of each.  Then you can decide for yourself whether tinctures or capsules are best for you.

A capsule In the manufacture of pharmaceuticals encapsulation refers to a range of dosage forms - techniques to enclose medicines. Glycerine capsules are moslty used. Vegan capsules are also available.

Capsules benefits

  • No bitter taste like tinctures
  • Capsules are economical
  • Easy to handle and transport
  • a capsule can hold 300mg - 600mg of herb

Cons of capsules:

  • Incompatibility with soluble ingredients
  • Can not get moisture

A tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made by soaking the bark, berries, leaves or roots from one or more plant in alcohol or vinegar.  

Tincture benefits:

  • Longer shelf life
  • Fast absorbation rate
  • Flexible dosage
  • Easy to use
  • Alcohol based

Tincture cons:

  • Bitter taste
  • Alcohol allergy

So if the bitter taste is a problem I assume it is best to use capsules.  Tinctures can be added to water to prevent bitter- and alcohol taste.

Otherwise tinctures are a good option due to its benefits.