faq
At Bitter Roots our product goes beyond being good for your health, we want it to be as good for the environment as well, which is why we use organic or pesticide/fungicide free herbs for all of our tinctures.
We adopt environmentally friendly practices whenever possible. We compost most herbs after they have been tinctured, we recycle, use recycled packaging and purchase recycled materials when possible.
The concentration varies depending on the herb and how it was prepared. Most are 1:2 or 1:3. A 1:3 ratio means 3 ml of tincture is equivalent to 1 g of dried herb. 1:2 is a stronger concentration since 2 ml of tincture equals 1g of dried herb. Currently all single herbs are either a 1:2 concentration while Standard Formula tinctures are 1:3.
Alcohol, either vodka or grain (safe for celiacs) is used for most tinctures. The percentage of alcohol used ranges from 25% to 75% depending on the active ingredients to be extracted.
Glycerin is another option. There are a few glycerin based formulas ideal for kids or those intolerant of alcohol. Custom glycerites can also be ordered. Choose that option when you login to the store online.
The dosage varies according to age and the concentration of the tincture. Always start at the lower end of the dose range and only give more if necessary.
For a 1:3 ratio the average adult dose is 1-4 ml (20 – 80 drops) 2 x day.
A low dose is 0.5ml – 1ml (10 – 20 drops) 2 x day.
A high adult dose is 5ml to 10ml 2 x day.
Age guidelines for dosages:
6-12 months: 1 – 5 drops
1-2 years: 1 – 10 drops
2-5 years: 2 – 20 drops
5-10 years: 5 – 40 drops
10-16 years: 10 – 80 drops
Adults: 30 – 100 drops
Elderly: 30 – 75 drops
Yes, however tinctures last for a long time because alcohol is a natural preservative. Our tinctures have an expiry date of 3-4 years after production to ensure maximum potency, however they can last much longer anywhere from 5 – 8 years. Glycerin based tinctures have a shorter shelf life and should be used within a year.
Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight for maximum preservation.