Making Supplements at Home

Making Supplements at Home: A Guide to Capsule Filling

Customization, cost savings, and control over ingredient quality

Why Make Your Own Supplements?

• Customization: Tailor dosages to your specific needs
• Cost Savings: Save 50-75% compared to store-bought supplements
• Quality Control: Choose your own high-quality ingredients
• Transparency: Know exactly what goes into each capsule

Equipment Needed

Creating your own supplements at home is surprisingly straightforward with the right tools. The process allows you to customize formulations, ensure ingredient purity, and save significantly on costs compared to commercial supplements.

Essential Equipment

You'll need a capsule filler machine (manual or automatic), empty capsules, finely ground powdered ingredients, a precise digital scale (measuring in milligrams), and a scoop or funnel for transferring powder.

Popular Capsule Filler Models

Cap-M-Quik

Popular manual filler for home use

The Capsule Machine

Simple, efficient design for beginners

Automatic Fillers

For larger batches and frequent use

Understanding Capsule Sizes

Empty capsules come in standard sizes, labeled from 000 (largest) to 5 (smallest). Choosing the right size depends on your dosage requirements and ease of swallowing.

Capsule Size Reference Chart

Size	Approximate Capacity
000	1000–1300 mg
00	700–900 mg
0	400–500 mg
1	300–400 mg
2	200–300 mg

Note: Actual capacity varies based on powder density

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Grind ingredients into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or electric grinder. Mix powders thoroughly if combining multiple ingredients to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Set Up the Capsule Filler

Separate the capsule filler's top and bottom plates. Place empty capsule halves into the holes of the bottom plate, ensuring they're properly seated.

Step 3: Fill the Capsules

Spread powder evenly over the bottom plate. Use a flat tool (like a credit card) to scrape off excess powder, leaving the capsules filled. Place the top plate over the bottom plate and press down to seal the capsules.

Step 4: Eject and Store

Lift the top plate to release the filled capsules. Store capsules in an airtight container, away from moisture and light to preserve potency.

Where to Buy Supplies

Capsule Fillers

Available from online retailers like Amazon, eBay, or specialty stores such as Capsule Connection or BulkSupplements. Local health food stores or pharmacies may also carry basic models.

Empty Capsules

Gelatin Capsules: Widely available on Amazon, eBay, or bulk suppliers like Capsuline

Vegetarian Capsules: Sold by NOW Foods, Swanson, or PureFormulas (made from HPMC)

Powdered Ingredients

• Herbs/Extracts: Mountain Rose Herbs, Starwest Botanicals
• Vitamins/Minerals: BulkSupplements, PureBulk

Safety and Quality Control

Essential Safety Practices

• Dosage Accuracy: Use a calibrated scale to avoid under- or over-dosing
• Hygiene: Work in a clean environment to prevent contamination
• Ingredient Purity: Source ingredients from reputable suppliers to ensure potency and safety
• Labeling: Clearly label capsules with ingredients and dosage for personal use

Cost Comparison

Store-Bought Supplements: Often marked up for branding and packaging

DIY Supplements: Cost-effective for bulk purchases, especially for long-term use

Example: A 100-count bottle of store-bought magnesium capsules may cost $20, while DIY capsules (including ingredients and supplies) could cost $5–$10 for the same quantity.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with healthcare providers before making significant dietary changes or beginning any supplementation regimen. Ensure proper hygiene and accurate dosing when creating supplements at home.

Last updated: January 2026