There are many reasons one may opt to make herbal capsules. From convenience to familiarity, capsules are an excellent way to get your daily dose of herbal medicine. So, whether you want a quick acetaminophen alternative for the house or are building an herbal first aid kit, making your own capsules is as simple as 1-2-3 steps!

Regardless of the reason or equipment you have at home, making herbal capsules is straightforward. The best part is that the process is the same for every herb. The only thing that changes is the dosage (how many capsules you take).  

My first time making herbal capsules was with ginger. After reading the study that found 250 mg of ginger was as effective as my previous migraine medication (sumatriptan), I just had to have ginger capsules in my arsenal. I started by purchasing Herbal Roots Ginger Capsules, and after confirming they were the missing piece of my migraine puzzle, I decided to save some money and start making them myself. 

What are Herbal Capsules

Herbal capsules are dried herbs that have been powdered and encapsulated. They are an excellent option for quickly and easily ingesting herbs. Since capsules can pose a choking hazard for children, it’s better to open them and add the herbal powder to foods or beverages (e.g., smoothies, soups, brownies, etc.). One of my favorite herbal resources, the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, mentions that in addition to taking powders with foods or water, they can also be used externally (on the skin) or mixed with tinctures as an herbal poultice.

There are a few factors to consider when making herbal capsules, including choosing the right capsule size for your needs. There are several capsule sizes, each with a capacity depending on the powder’s density. Of course, some powders will be much denser than others; the finer the powder, the more the capsule will fit. Each capsule size holds the following amounts of powdered herbs (1):

• Size 4 = 120 – 240 mg
• Size 3 = 162 – 324 mg 
• Size 2 = 216 – 432 mg
• Size 1 = 288 – 576 mg
• Size 0 = 408 – 816 mg
• Size 00 = 570 – 1140 mg 
• Size 000 = 822 – 1644 mg

I typically purchase size 0, which holds, on average, 500 mg of dried herbs. Once you’ve determined the right size for your needs, it’s time to choose what type of capsules you want. The most common varieties are gelatin (animal-derived) and vegetarian (plant-based). I recommend a capsule free from food additives like artificial food coloring. I use the clear, vegetarian capsules from XPRS Nutra.

No matter what type of capsules you choose, if you’re using a capsule-filling machine, ensure your capsules are the corresponding size. I use The Capsule Machine, which makes 24 capsules at a time. However, I have been eyeballing the CAPSULE-IT Capsule Filler from Herb Affair to make larger batches of capsules. 

Best Herbs for Capsule-Making

When I make homemade herbal remedies, I try to buy herbs locally. When buying locally isn’t an option, I typically purchase from Anthony’s Goods, Frontier Co-op, or Starwest Botanicals. Looking for additional herbal suppliers? Check out my post, 3 Ways to Source Herbs.

Of course, you can use many different herbs to make herbal capsules. The possibilities are endless, from single (simple) to combination herbal capsules. My top recommendations for herbal capsules include:

• Ashwagandha – check out my post, Benefits of Ashwagandha
• Black cumin seeds – check out my post, Benefits of Black Cumin Seeds
• Cayenne pepper – check out my post, Benefits of Cayenne Pepper
• Cinnamon – Check out my post, Benefits of Cinnamon
• Ginger – check out my post, Benefits of Ginger
• Turmeric – check out my post, Benefits of Turmeric

If you’re not too sure what herbs to add to your capsules, here are some posts for inspiration:

• 5 Herbs to Fight Parasitic Infections
• 5 Herbs to Reduce Stress & Anxiety
• 5 Nutrients to Promote Quality Sleep
• 6 Herbs to Detox Heavy Metals
• 6 Herbs to Manage Headaches & Migraines

Please remember that despite many amazing herbs, not every herb is perfect for everybody. When trying a new herb, listen to your body and discontinue if it’s not the right fit for you. Additionally, some herbs work better with complimenting herbs. For example, turmeric is often paired with black pepper for bioactivity. Black pepper’s ​​bioactive compound, piperine, increases the body’s ability to absorb turmeric’s curcumin compounds (2).

How to Make Herbal Capsules

A single herb or combination can be used to create herbal capsules. The amount of herbs needed will depend on the capsules’ size. According to Mountain Rose Herbs, as little as two tablespoons of powdered herb(s) can make 24 capsules (3). 

You will need:

• Empty capsules (I use XPRS Nutra Size 0 Clear)
• Powdered herbs 
• Small bowl or capsule filler (I use The Capsule Machine)
• Glass jar/bottle for storage (I use a 4 oz. mason jar or amber pill bottle)

Step 1: Gather Dried Herbs

It’s important to ensure the herbs you’re encapsulating are thoroughly dried and powdered. If you only have fresh herbs, dry them first (check out my post, How to Dry Fresh Herbs). After the herbs are dried, use a blender or food processor to make an herbal powder. 

Step 2: Encapsulate

The encapsulation process will look different depending on the method you’re using. I use a capsule machine because it’s the quickest. For best results with capsule machines, follow the directions your machine came with. Of course, capsules can be made without a machine, too! If you don’t have a capsule filler/machine, simply pour the powdered herb into a small bowl. Then, use an open capsule to scoop the open ends together until both sides are filled with herbal powder. Close each capsule by connecting the open ends.

Step 3: Store & Label

After encapsulation, store in a size-appropriate bottle/jar. I typically use a 4 oz. mason jar or amber pill bottle. You can even repurpose an old glass pill bottle; just sterilize it first! Don’t forget to label your final jar/bottle with what the capsules are and when they expire (1 year). 

Dosage & Storage

The standard dosage for herbal capsules is 250 to 1000 mg up to 3 times daily. When stored in a cool place, capsules can last 1 year. Please note that herbal capsules do not go bad. Like pharmaceutical medications, they simply lose potency over time. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to source herbs?

There are many ways to source herbs. I usually purchase locally or online from Anthony’s Goods, Frontier Co-op, or Starwest Botanicals. However, there are many other brands and sourcing methods. I recommend reading my post, 3 Ways to Source Herbs, to find the best method for you.

What type of empty capsules are best?

I recommend choosing a capsule free from food additives like artificial food coloring. I use the brand XPRS Nutra and opt for the clear, vegetarian capsules. If you use a capsule-filling machine, ensure your capsules are the correct size.

What is the best sterilization method?

You can sterilize handheld equipment like jars through the sanitation setting of a dishwasher or by boiling them in water. Simply place the equipment (including jar lids) in a large pot and fill it with water. Ensure all equipment is submerged in the water. Then, bring it to a boil and let it continue for 10-15 minutes. Do not let the water come to a boil first and then add the equipment; this can cause the glass equipment to heat too quickly and shatter. When removing the freshly sanitized equipment, I recommend using canning tongs. 

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