It’s easy to use herbs when you’re home, but traveling with them requires some extra thought. If you are happy with loose herbs, there are generally no issues. Put them in a bag and go. However, if you like to use tinctures then further consideration must be taken. Tinctures are normally stored in 1 oz. amber glass bottles. For travel, some people choose to store their tinctures in plastic bottles. I am not a fan of plastic, so that’s not an option for our family. At first, I made a simple pouch out of bubble wrap, not very elegant but it did the trick. Then, I came across a simple homemade carrying case and decided to make one for Mike since he was traveling quite a bit. It was perfect ~ simple and easy to travel with tinctures. I finally made one for myself too.
materials
All you need is a placemat, thread and ribbon. I sewed it by hand but if you have a sewing machine, it can be made within minutes. I am a big fan of reusing and found 5 placemats at a 2nd hand store for only $1.00.
- Simply lay the placemat flat, fold the bottom up one third.
mark each seam with a pin
- Mark off every 3 inches and sew each segment as well as the outside seams up vertically. Most placemats average 18” in length. So, this will create 6 pouches and allows for storage of 6 tincture bottles ranging from 1oz. to 4oz. in size. Exact measurements are unnecessary ~ this design is very forgiving.
sew 6 pockets
- Cut a 40 inch ribbon. Fold in half and sew folded part into one side of the pouch’s outside seam.
- Insert tinctures, fold top over, roll and then tie with ribbon. That’s it ~ now go off and explore the world.
I have never had any problems with breakage or the TSA when traveling with tinctures. I do put the pouch in a zip-lock bag with other 1st aid items for extra peace of mind.
If you do not have the time or the inclination to make your own tincture travel holder, you can find some for purchase at www.knowyouroots.com.
How do you travel with your tinctures? Please share and I will continue to share.