How to Upcycle Herbs After Making Infusions, Oils, Tinctures & More

If you’re like me, you do your best to make sure nothing goes to waste in your kitchen or apothecary. Every root, flower, and leaf is the result of a lot of love, from the pollinators in the field, the farmers who tended them, and the time you’ve spent preparing your own medicine. Once your tea, oil, tincture, or vinegar is strained, you’re left with what herbalists call the “marc,” the spent plant material.

At first glance, marc might look like something to toss in the compost. But with a bit of creativity, you can find plenty of ways to put it to work one more time. While most of its medicinal properties have already been extracted into your preparation, the marc often still retains aroma, flavor, texture, and fiber that can be useful in other ways.

Why You Can’t Just Re-Infuse Herbs (Most of the Time)

One of the first questions people ask is: Can I just steep the marc again and make another batch? The short answer is no, not really. When you make an oil, tincture, vinegar, or long infusion, the solvents (whether water, alcohol, vinegar, or oil) do their job, pulling out the majority of the plant’s medicinal constituents. That means what’s left behind isn’t very potent medicine anymore.

The exception is tea. Some gentle herbs can be brewed a second or even a third time, especially if you top off the infusion with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten the flavor. But beyond that, consider marc as something to be repurposed for its sensory qualities, such as its taste, scent, or texture, rather than for its medicinal effects.

How to Upcycle Herbs by Preparation Type

After Tea or Decotions

• Re-brew once or twice: Get the most from your tea herbs by brewing again, adding a pinch of fresh herbs if desired.

• Soups and sauces: If the herbs are culinary-safe, freeze partially dried marc in a labeled bag and toss into broths or sauces.

• Compost: When you’re finally done, compost your tea and let the nutrients return to the soil.

After Herbal Oils

Oil-soaked marc doesn’t break down well in compost, but it still has numerous beneficial uses.

• Face exfoliant: Blend the marc until finely ground. Adjust texture by blending more or adding soft exfoliants like oats.

• Salt or sugar body scrub: Mix with salt or sugar for a plant-powered polish.

• Culinary uses (when appropriate): Freeze oil-soaked culinary herbs in a jar or blend with salt for a homemade bouillon base.

• Herbal fire starters: Combine marc with melted beeswax for aromatic, easy-to-light fire starters. This is one of my favorite uses, and you can find a simple how-to here.
  

After Tinctures

• Don’t strain it (advanced): Some herbalists prefer blending the marc with liquid for whole-plant use.

• Potpourri: Alcohol-soaked marc dries quickly and can be added to a fragrant potpourri mix.

• Spagyric: For those drawn to alchemical traditions, marc can be calcined into ash and reunited with the tincture.

• Compost: Add sparingly to avoid overwhelming your pile.
  

After Herbal Vinegars

• Seasoning blends: Dehydrate and use in cooking. A slight vinegar tang adds depth. (Fire Cider marc makes an excellent spice blend!)

• Soup stocks: Freeze vinegar-soaked marc to toss into broth for brightness.

• Bath or foot soak: Tie in a muslin bag and add to warm water.

• Hair Rinse: Steep the marc in warm water for 30 minutes, then strain and use as a natural rinse.

• Compost: Safe for the pile, just avoid adding large amounts at once.
  

After Herb-Infused Honey

• Electuaries: If you use powdered herbs, simply leave them in for a spoonable herbal-honey blend.

• Tea booster: Add honey-covered marc to your next cup of tea.

• Baked goods: Stir into recipes where a little texture is welcome.

• Skin care: Blend into a gentle face mask or body scrub.
  

Pro Tips & Cautions

• Avoid sending large amounts of oily or vinegary marc down the drain—it can clog pipes. Shake or compost it outdoors instead.

• Label everything. Once frozen or dried, marc can look surprisingly similar.

• Remember: upcycled marc isn’t “medicine” anymore, it’s a way to honor the whole plant and squeeze out the last bits of sensory goodness.

Closing Thoughts

Upcycling herbs is a simple, meaningful way to stretch your ingredients, reduce waste, and stay connected to the plants you work with. Every last drop matters. Try out some of these ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Your kitchen or apothecary may inspire new ways to give marc a second life.

What’s your favorite way to reuse herbs? Share your ideas in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you honor every part of the plants in your own ritual. Until next time,

Disclaimer

The content on thisunboundlife.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Natural does not always mean safe — especially during pregnancy, nursing, or when taking medications. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.

We are not medical professionals, and while we strive for accuracy using reputable sources, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and consult professionals regarding any health concerns.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.