If you’re rolling up your sleeves to make your own tinctures, salves, and herbal extracts, having the right tools can make the work as easy as pie (or should we say herbal pie?).
A few good basics can take your home herbal game from “trial and error” to smooth and satisfying.
Below, I’ve rounded up some well-loved gear for DIY remedy making – from tincture presses and glycerite supplies to drying racks and double boilers.
These tools are just practical and reliable, which is exactly what you want when you’ve got jars to fill and herbs to squeeze.
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3 Popular Tincture Presses (Squeeze Your Herbals with Ease)
Herbal tinctures need serious squeezing. Sure, you can use cheesecloth and elbow grease, but a good tincture press will save your hands, your time, and your sanity – especially when you're making more than a tiny jar.
Below are three presses that DIY herbalists love, from compact beginner tools to heavy-duty machines built for big batches.
1. Stainless-Steel LETIME Multiuses Press
- Tincture & Oil Press: Separates liquid from tinctures or oils with easy cleanup.
- High-Quality Steel: Made from durable 304 stainless steel with hand-polished filter cups.
- Effortless Use: No more messy cheesecloth—cleanly presses liquids with ease.
- Dishwasher Safe: All parts (except handle ball) are dishwasher friendly.
- Versatile: Great for tinctures, oils, honey, tea, coffee, lotions, and more.
The LETIME Multiuses Press hits that sweet spot between convenience and capacity.
It’s made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, which means it won’t rust, it’s easy to sanitize, and it’s tough enough to handle repeated use.
With a 2-liter capacity, this press works great for medium-sized batches whether you're straining tinctures, oil infusions, herbal honey, or even nut milks.
The hand crank is smooth and easy to operate, and the internal basket with fine mesh helps separate the plant pulp from the liquid cleanly.
One of the big perks? It’s dishwasher-safe. After a long day of herbal prep, not having to scrub sticky resin out of tiny parts is a blessing.
For home herbalists who make tinctures regularly but don’t need industrial-level equipment, this one’s a dependable, well-built option.
2. BEXCO Tincture Press
- Tincture press is a device that you can use in your home to make herbal tinctures.
- It usually consists of some type of a straining mechanism, a container and a press.
- There are a variety of herb tincture presses available on the market.
- An herbal tincture is a concoction made with distilled water and/or alcohol and fresh herbs and/or dried herbs.
- Tinctures are typically taken in tea, water or juice.
If you’re in deep with herbal remedy making – maybe you run a small apothecary, sell at farmers’ markets, or just like to make big batches at once – the BEXCO Tincture Press is worth a look.
This is a heavy-duty, high-pressure unit built from thick stainless steel components, designed to press out every possible drop from even densely packed herbs.
It has a solid, reinforced frame and a weighty press plate that can handle a lot of pressure without bending or slipping.
This isn’t the type of tool you tuck away in a kitchen drawer (it’s hefty and takes up some counter space) but if you want consistent, high-yield extraction for serious production, this press can deliver.
It’s more of an investment up front, but if you press large volumes regularly, it’ll earn its keep.
3. SQUEEZE Master 0.53-Qt Press
- Triangle Design: Stable, energy-saving, and easier juicing with better torque.
- High Juice Yield: Separates juice and pulp for 100% natural, fresh juice.
- Multifunctional: Works for fruits, veggies, cheese, olive oil, and more.
- Quiet & Easy: Simple to use, eco-friendly, and whisper-quiet at 35dB.
- Safe & Reliable: Made of stainless steel with responsive support service.
Another budget-friendly option is the SQUEEZE master 0.53-qt Press. It's is a great choice for small batches or beginner herbalists.
It features a compact, triangle-frame design with a red finish and a ball-handle crank that gives you more torque with less effort. Made from stainless steel and iron, it's durable and rust-resistant, though not dishwasher-safe.
Originally made for juicing fruits and veggies, it works surprisingly well for pressing tinctures, oils, cheese, and more.
It’s quiet (about 35dB), easy to use, and doesn’t require electricity – great for low-tech, off-grid setups. If you want something small, efficient, and budget-friendly, this little press holds its own.
Tip: When using any tincture press, loosely pack your herbs to avoid clogging. You’ll get more yield and less back pain!
Each of these has great reviews from DIY herbalists. They all do the same job – squeezing tinctures – so pick one that fits your budget and batch size.
Glycerite Kits (Alcohol-Free Tinctures)
Want alcohol-free remedies?
Meet glycerites: herbal extracts made with vegetable glycerin instead of booze. You don’t need a fancy kit – just food-grade glycerin, jars, and some funnels.
1. Handcraft Blends Vegetable Glycerin
- Multi-Purpose: Plant-based glycerin softens, smooths, and soothes skin.
- DIY Friendly: Great base for homemade lotions, sprays, and blends.
- Moisturizing: Locks in moisture and supports a soft, smooth complexion.
- Soothing: Helps calm irritation and supports clearer skin.
- Essential Oil Dilution: Works as a carrier oil for safe aromatherapy use.
One of the most trusted choices for herbal projects is the Handcraft Blends Vegetable Glycerin. It’s 100% pure, sourced from sustainable palm oil, and totally food-grade – perfect for safe, internal use.
It’s also clear, sweet-tasting, and thick enough to extract and preserve herbal goodness over time.
Many herbalists use a 3:1 ratio of glycerin to water for their infusions, which helps balance the consistency without compromising shelf life.
Bonus: this glycerin is multipurpose. Besides tinctures, it works well in homemade skincare, soaps, and even lip balms.
You’ll also want amber glass dropper bottles to store your glycerites.
2. Dark Amber Dropper Bottles
- Complete Set: Includes 24 amber bottles, funnels, dropper, and labels.
- Durable Materials: Thick amber glass with leak-proof lids and silicone tops.
- Multi-Use: Great for essential oils, tinctures, perfumes, and more.
- Travel-Friendly: Compact, leak-proof design ideal for on-the-go use.
- Handy Accessories: Funnels, dropper, and labels make filling and organizing easy.
Once your glycerite is infused and strained, you’ll want proper storage – and this 24-pack of 60 mL dark amber dropper bottles fits the bill.
Each bottle protects your herbal extract from light exposure (which helps preserve potency), and the kit includes handy extras like mini funnels and labels.
These sets are super popular among home herbalists because they make bottling feel neat and professional.
Just pour your finished glycerite into the bottles, pop in the droppers, slap on your labels, and you're good to go.
It’s a tidy, practical way to store and share your herbal creations whether you're stocking your home apothecary or giving gifts to friends.
Note: Glycerin is sweet and shelf-stable, but remember to store bottles out of sunlight. A dark cabinet keeps your glycerites potent longer.
With these basics, you can whip up alcohol-free extracts at home. (And hey, no judgments if you taste-test a tiny drop of your soothing herbal extract!)
Recommended Mesh Drying Racks
Next, let’s talk drying herbs. No oven needed – the best tool is a hanging mesh rack (sometimes called a “herb tent”). These two breathable nets let air circulate all around your herbs:
1. VIVOSUN 6-Layer Mesh Drying Rack
- Airflow + Sun Drying: Mesh allows air and sun heat for quick drying.
- Big Capacity: 6 roomy layers for herbs, buds, or food.
- Includes Tools: Comes with shears and grinder.
- Enclosed Design: Keeps contents protected.
- Folds Flat: Easy to store and carry.
The VIVOSUN 6-Layer Mesh Drying Rack is a best-seller for a reason. It features six spacious, zippered tiers made from tough black nylon mesh – roomy enough to dry a good-sized harvest all at once.
The breathable fabric allows airflow from every side, while the darker material absorbs a touch of sun warmth, which helps herbs dry a bit faster (without the risk of overheating).
It comes with a sturdy hanging loop so you can suspend it in a closet, greenhouse, shed, or shaded porch. Users love how easy it is to set up and how much it holds without overcrowding.
If you're drying leaves, flowers, or even mushrooms, this rack makes the whole process simple and efficient – no more paper towel piles on your kitchen table.
2. Bestio 6-Layer Collapsible Drying Rack
- Durable Mesh: Breathable, non-toxic nylon with sturdy steel rings.
- Quick Drying: Multi-layer airflow dries herbs, flowers, fish, and more.
- Zip Closure: Each layer zips shut to block wind, bugs, and debris.
- Easy Setup: Pops open with included hooks and storage bag.
- Support Included: 24/7 customer service for any questions.
Another excellent option is the Bestio 6-Layer Collapsible Drying Rack, especially if you're short on storage space.
It measures about 24 by 48 inches when fully open but folds flat when not in use – super convenient for seasonal herbalists.
Each of the six layers has its own blue zipper, so you can access one section without disturbing the rest (no more herbs raining down when you reach for the middle tier).
It’s made from premium nylon mesh that promotes airflow and prevents mold, and it also includes a waterproof top cover – handy if you’re drying outside and the weather turns on you.
Many herbalists love how this rack keeps different herbs separated and organized, making the drying process not just efficient but kind of fun.
Friendly Tip: Spread herbs out in a single layer on each rack shelf and don’t overload it. Flip or shake trays once a day so all sides air-dry evenly.
Both of these are hits for drying herbs, flowers, fruits, and even nuts. They fold up for storage – so they’re also great for dehydrating small veggie harvests and keeps your kitchen clear of messy piles. (Got a drying net pun? We’ll “leave no herb unturned” – but seriously, these work!)
Double-Boiler Kits (Salves & Melt-and-Pour Melting Pots)
For salves, oils, and any recipe that needs gentle heat, double boilers are a must. A double boiler is basically two pots: one holds hot water and one fits on top to melt wax, butters, or chocolate without burning.
Many herbalists use simple kits: for instance, a 2-piece set (0.6 qt + 1.7 qt) with spatula is easy on the wallet.
1. ExcelSteel 3-Piece Double Boiler Set (2.5 qt)
- Stainless Steel: Polished and durable for long-term use.
- Perfect Size: 2.5 Qt. ideal for melting chocolate or cheese.
- Stay-Cool Handles: With hanging loops for easy storage.
- Glass Lid: Lets you monitor without lifting.
- Dishwasher Safe: Easy cleanup after use.
Need something a little bigger and sturdier?
The ExcelSteel 3-Piece 2.5-Quart Double Boiler Set steps things up. Made from polished 18/8 stainless steel, it’s rust-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and even works on induction cooktops.
It comes with a clear glass lid with a vent hole so steam can escape without building pressure — super helpful when you’re multitasking and don’t want your mix to overheat.
The handles are riveted and stay cool while cooking, and the larger capacity makes it a solid choice for folks who like to make bigger batches or prep several salves at once.
2. SONGZIMING 1.1-Quart Stainless Double Boiler
- Quality Build: Made of rust-resistant 18/8 stainless steel.
- Great Size: 1.1 QT with long handle and compact storage.
- Multi-Use: Ideal for melting chocolate, wax, soap, and more.
- Easy to Use: Fits most pots, with dual spouts and anti-slip hook.
For a smaller pot, the SONGZIMING 1.1-qt Stainless Double Boiler
If you want something in between, the SONGZIMING 1.1-Quart Stainless Double Boiler is another solid pick.
It’s made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel and has two easy-pour spouts (great for transferring hot wax without drips or mess).
It fits neatly over most standard saucepans, so you can just set it on whatever you already have at home. It’s compact, affordable, and ideal for home remedy makers who want a no-fuss tool that works reliably every time.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a fancy set, you can nest a heat-safe bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Just mind the handle – silicone grips help a lot when lifting hot bowls.
These choices give you options for any kitchen size.
The ExcelSteel pot is a “workhorse” (4.6/5 stars from thousands of users) with sturdy handles. The smaller songzimng pot is beloved for one-handed stirring on a countertop.
Either way, your wax and oils stay gentle and lump-free – ideal for homemade salves, lotions, and candy-like herbal balms.
With these tools on your shelf, you’ll be ready to craft syrups, tinctures, creams, and salves like a seasoned herbal alchemist.
Just remember: no singed eyebrows (safety first!), label your bottles, and have fun watching your garden go from backyard bounty to backyard pharmacy.
Happy homesteading and happy healing!