Taking Herbal Preparations
Merriam Webster
dropper noun: a short glass or plastic tube fitted with a rubber bulb and used to measure liquids by drops called also eyedropper, medicine dropper
So, what is a Tincture Dropperful?
Understanding the volume measurement of a dropper can leave you scratching your head, especially when it comes to accurately administering liquid herbal preparations or supplements.
Many herbal tinctures, preparations, and solutions are often packaged in common dropper bottles with a standard 1ml dropper. Dietary supplement labeling guidelines do not require manufacturers to include specific instructions for use. The guidelines do, however, indicate manufacturers are required to state both identity and “net quantity” of ingredients. This information can be used to make an accurate estimate of dose when using a standard dropper.
The Glass tube did not fill all the way when I squeezed the dropper top?
All dropper tops are created equal, but the glass tube on the end may differ in length or size. The bulb is what determines how much liquid fills the tube, not the length of the tube itself.
How to Use
Gently squeeze the rubber end of the dropper, using your thumb and forefinger. This will squeeze excess air out of the dropper and prepare the dropper to suck up the medicine. Place the dropper into the bottle. Stop squeezing the rubber end but continue to hold onto the dropper. The liquid may fill the glass tube only a small portion of the way, but that is considered a “dropperful”. A dropperful equals approximately 30 drops. (1 ml)
How Much to Take?
Standard suggested adult dosage for tinctures is 1-2 dropper full two to three times a day.
Following the max Standard dosing suggestion dosage for adults of two dropperful three times a day, tincture bottles typically:
1oz. tincture bottle will last about one week
2oz. tincture bottle will last two weeks
4oz. tincture bottle will typically last about a month.
To promote best results
It is recommended to place the drops directly under the tongue. This will allow for absorption directly into the bloodstream. (Avoid any liquids or food for at least 15 minutes afterwards to promote the best results.)
Other ways to take herbal preparations
Dilution
Dilute the tincture in a small amount of water or juice. Flavoring with lemon or honey may disguise the taste!
Dissipating the alcohol
Prefer a non-alcohol product, add the drops of tincture to a small amount of hot water and allow the tincture to sit for 5-10 minutes in the hot water. This will dissipate the alcohol content, leaving only the herb matter and water behind!
Many Blessings,
Casharion Kirk RN, CCM, Clinical Herbalist
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Written by CASHARION KIRK
