1 Tinctures last longer than dried herbs, usually up to 2-5 years. 2  You can make combinations of herbs if you have instructions to follow from a reputable source.3  You can burn off the alcohol by putting the dose into a cup of boiling water and drinking as a tea. Tinctures last longer than dried herbs, usually up to 2-5 years. 2  You can make combinations of herbs if you have instructions to follow from a reputable source.