How to make your own herbal infusions and decoctions.
Herbal infusions and decoctions have been a popular form of natural remedies for centuries. They are simple and convenient ways to use herbs to promote health and wellbeing. In this blog post, I want to share with you the basics of preparing and using infusions and decoctions to improve our physical and mental health.
Difference between herbal tea, infusion and decoction.
Herbal tea’s, infusions and decoctions are all beverages made from the leaves, flowers, stems and roots of plants. The difference between the three lies in the preparation methods. Tea is brewed by adding tea leaves to hot water and allowing them to steep for 3-5 minutes. While herbal infusions are made by steeping herbs in hot water for 30 minutes, several hours or sometimes even overnight. Decoctions are similar to infusions but are made by boiling herbs in water for 30 minutes or longer. In terms of taste, herbal infusions and teas both vary depending on the herbs used and the preparation methods.
Herbal Infusions
So, an herbal infusion is a medicinal strength tea that is created by steeping herbs in hot water. To make an herbal infusion, you will need to place the herbs in a mug or teapot and pour hot, boiled water over them. Infusions typically involve one ounce of dried herb infused in one quart of water. Depending on the herbs and the strength you are going for allow the herbs to steep for 30 minutes till 24 hours before straining the liquid and drinking it hot or cold. This simple process makes herbal infusions a great choice for beginners and anyone looking for a natural remedy. I like to use this process to make my nettle infusions.
Herbal Decoctions
Herbal decoctions are similar to infusions, but with a few key differences. Decoctions are ideal for extracting the medicinal compounds from tougher plant parts, such as mushrooms, roots, barks and seeds. To make a decoction, you will need to place the herbs in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes or longer before straining and drinking the liquid. This is how I make my chaga and reishi brew that I use as a base for my coffee, elixirs and soups.
Making the Most of Herbal Remedies
Once you have the basics of preparing herbal infusions and decoctions down, there are a few tips to ensure that you are getting the most out of your herbal remedies. Start by using fresh, organic herbs whenever possible and make sure to store them properly to maintain their potency. Additionally, experiment with different herbs to find the ones that work best for you. Lastly, use herbs in combination to create more powerful remedies. When making herbal infusions or decoctions, it is always important to take safety into consideration. Some herbs may be contraindicated in certain situations or for certain individuals, so it is important to do your research before consuming any herbal remedy.
Herbal infusions and decoctions are simple, natural remedies that can be used to promote health and wellness. With the right herbs and the right preparation, these remedies can be a powerful tool for achieving and maintaining wellbeing. However, it is important to always consider safety when using herbal remedies and to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any herbal remedy.
Here are a few simple herbs to start with.
Chamomile is a widely known and popular herbal remedy due to its soothing and calming properties. It has been used for centuries to help reduce stress and anxiety, making it an ideal choice for those looking to alleviate stress and worries.
Mugwort is another herbal remedy that has been used for centuries for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to help improve digestion, as well as act as a natural pain reliever. It’s also amazing to enhance your dreaming.
Astragalus is an herb that is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great choice for those looking to boost immunity and fight aging.
Nettle is another plant that has been used for centuries. Few plants are as nutrient-rich as nettle. The leaves are high in minerals like calcium, iron and potassium. Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years to treat painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, and anemia.
Lemon balm is a herb that is believed to have calming and anti-anxiety effects. It was used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce anxiety, promote sleep, improve appetite, and ease pain and discomfort from indigestion.
Lastly, passionflower is known for its calming and sedative properties, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce stress levels. Today, passionflower is also promoted as a dietary supplement for sleep problems, as well as for pain, menopausal symptoms, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Herbal infusions and decoctions are simple, natural remedies that can be used to promote health and wellness. With the right herbs and the right preparation, these remedies can be a powerful tool for achieving and maintaining well being. However, it is important to always consider safety when using herbal remedies and to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any herbal remedy.
