Herbalism.
Herbs.
Making Healing Infusions and Decoctions.
The most common way to take herbal medicine is in an herb tea infusion. Drinking a medicinal tea is different however from drinking an herbal tea as a beverage. Medicinal teas are stronger. They usually require 1 ounce of the herb per pint (2 cups) of water. The container you use to prepare the medicinal herbal beverage is important also. Heatproof glassware and earthenware are best, as they do not impart any of there own qualities into the preparation. Avoid containers made of aluminum or cast iron, these can taint the herbal preparation. Heavily chlorinated tap water or water with a high mineral content should also be avoided. Pure spring water, or distilled water is best to use.

Infusions.

Infusions are medicinal beverages made by steeping the herbs in hot water until their useful qualities are extracted. To make an infusion, bring a pint of water to a full rolling boil and remove from the heat. Immerse 1 ounce (about 2 cups) of the dried herb in the water and cover tightly. Let the infusion steep for 10-15 mins.

Decoctions.

Decoctions, simmering herbs in water, is the most effective method of drawing the healing elements from the coarse plant parts such as the bark, roots, stems or heavy leaves. Bring one pint of water to a full rolling boil and add the dried herbs. Keep the water just below boiling for about 30 mins and let the herbs simmer gently. Allow to cool and strain the preparation through cheesecloth before using.

Lotions and Washes.

Washes are teas or infusions meant only for external use. A mild form of a wash is 1/2 ounce of herb to one pint of boiling water, steeped until lukewarm, then applied to the area requiring treatment. Lotions are made by adding the herbs to an oil such as almond, sesame, or glycerin. Three teaspoon of herb to one cup of oil, steeped and heated several times makes a very effective lotion. Lotions should be kept cool and in air tight containers for best results.

Tinctures.

Tinctures are an excellent way to preserve and concentrate the healing qualities of herbs. Several drops to one tablespoon is the general dosage. To make a tincture, combine 4 ounces of the powdered or finely cut herb with a pint of spirits, such as brandy, vodka or gin, in a large jar or jug with a secure fitting lid. (NEVER use rubbing or wood alcohol, both are poisonous.) Shake the mixture several times daily over a period of two weeks. Let the herb settle, then strain off the liquid and put them into another clean bottle for storage. Tinctures may be put up at the time of the new moon and finished on the full moon to take advantage of the natural drawing power of the waxing moon. simple and casual wedding collections in short length

Herbal Syrups.

Honey based herbal syrups are used to soothe sore throats and provide relief from coughs and colds. Some serve as laxatives or general tonics. To make an herbal syrup, combine 2 ounces of dried herb with 1 quart (4 cups) of water. Boil down the mixture until it is reduced by half, then add 1 to 2 ounces of honey. If you are using fresh fruit, leaves or roots in making the syrup, double the amount of herbs. Store all herbal syrups in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Ointments and Salves.

Ointment and salves are useful for healing cuts and treating skin ailments. To make an ointment, warm one cup of oil (olive, almond, sunflower, or sesame) over a low flame and place one-half ounce herbs wrapped in cheesecloth to soak until the herb has lost color and the oil is rich with its scent, about 1 hour. Strain and bottle the oil when cool.
To make a salve, use method described above. After staining the mixture, add 1 1/2 ounces of melted beeswax to the oil. Stir mixture as it thickens and cools, and store in a wide mouthed jar. The salve can be kept in the refrigerator up to one year. If the mixture separates, reheat and allow it to cool.

Compresses, Poultices and Plasters.

Compresses consist of towels soaked in herbal infusions or teas and applied to an area of the body to soothe, stimulate or otherwise energize. To prepare a compress, immerse a clean small towel in the herbal infusion heated to between 150 and 180 degrees. Wring it out well as a too wet towel will cause burns. Cover the hot compress with a dry towel.
Compresses are usually applied for 10 to 30 mins. and the hot clothes are changed every few minutes throughout the treatment. The duration of the treatment varies according to the herbs used and the condition being treated. Generally, the treatment is stopped when feelings of relief develop or the skin becomes uniformly flushed.

Poultices consist of dried, powdered or macerated* herbs that are moistened with hot water or herb tea and applied directly to the skin area to be treated. A clean towel, cloth or bandage is place over the poultice to hold it in place.
Poultices are effective for drawing out infections or foreign bodies and relieving muscle spasms and pain. *(Macerated herbs are steeped in an oil or fat, such as done with ointments and salves.)

A plaster consists of herbs set within the folds of a cloth, usually cheesecloth or muslin. Plasters are most often used for small injuries when an antiseptic and healing effect is desired.