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Yes, you can make all of these preparations and more, all by yourself! Making your own herbal preparations is not only fun, but also can be economical. Best of all, you know what is in the preparation, unlike commercial preparations that may contain substances you do not want or need.
Making your own herbal preparations for medicinal purposes is relatively easy and can be fun. It can be a cost-effective way to incorporate the healing power of herbs for both your mind and body. Some of these herbal concoctions do require a certain degree of time and skill, but there are lots of simple remedies you can make yourself, including teas, syrups, and creams. You may need to do a bit of research to know which are herbs are most effective for your ailments, but soon you will be on your way to making your own herbal preparations with the following recipes.
Since the best herbal preparations are those made when the plants are fresh, it is always preferable to either wild harvest herbal plants or grow your own herbs and make your preparations from your harvest. If fresh herbal products are not available, find a good reliable resource for dried herbs should be used for making your own preparations.
But even the best plants can be ruined if you use the wrong kind of process in preparing your herbal remedies. Your choice depends on the parts of the plant to be used, the form in which the remedy will be taken, and the desired result.
Always keep in mind that herbal remedies are not one-shot wonder cures. Their effectiveness is based largely on a gradual cure that works with your own body's healing processes. Most herbal remedies are meant to be taken over a certain length of time for results to appear. They should be used with other nutritional and health therapies and positive lifestyle choices (such as not smoking, fresh air, moderate exercise, dietary changes, and avoiding stress and other bad habits or addictions).
The following ways of preparing your fresh herbs are those most commonly used in herbal medicine.
Always use an enamel or non-metallic pot and utensils when preparing herbal preparations using heat.
Most dried herbs achieve the highest potency in a water base. In this case an infusion or tea is recommended.
When making tinctures in glycerin or alcohol bases, it is generally best to use fresh plant matter. However, dried roots and barks can also be used to make tinctures.
When picking fresh herbs, try to pick them at their peak and after the morning dew has dried. If you are wild harvesting herbs, never take all of them. Leave some that will continue to grow for the next season. This is especially important if you are harvesting the entire plant and not just the flowers or leaves. It is always nice to leave a little thank-you gift to the plant after you have harvested, such as a drink of water or a scoop of dried manure fertilizer to encourage continued growth. You should ask the plant's permission when harvesting, When you take, you should always give something back and always thank the plant for giving you its healing properties. As a midwife, I would leave a few pieces of cut-up placenta from one of my births with a sprinkling of water when I was wild harvesting herbs. In my own garden, I would make sure I would supply a healthy dose of dried cow manure in the spring to help nourish my plants as they came up.
OTHER HELPFUL SUPPLIES & UTENSILS FOR PREPARING YOUR HERBAL PREPARATIONS:
TYPES OF PREPARATIONS
HERBAL AROMA SPRAYS
With the recent popularity in aromatherapy and related products falling under the guise of aromatherapy, we felt it was time to share some of the basics involved with preparing the easily crafted aroma spray recipe.
Most aroma sprays typically cost around $9-12.00 for a small 1 to 4 ounce bottle. From experience we can tell you that most of those dollars were used for packaging, marketing, labor, advertising etc, and very little went into the raw goods. In fact, you can make your own that is ostensibly superior, more economical, and a creation that merits pride and fosters happiness. The sheer value of experimentation is priceless and some of the greatest blends of our time have been created by accident.
1. First, create a list of oils you think may combine well and be certain that you are aware of any potential hazards or precautions involved with those oils.
2. Mix your choice of oils (usually in equal proportions) in a separate glass container, bottle or vial.
3. Get an 8 ounce plastic bottle or container, and fill it up with 7 ounces of spring water, and 1 ounce of Witch Hazel extract. (Alcohol Distilled)
4. Pour 1 ml of your essential oil blend into the 8 ounce container and shake vigorously.
The oils may separate a little bit, but if the Witch Hazel extract is doing its job, there should be very little separation. If this occurs, simply shake well before each use. Of course this recipe is completely arbitrary and the amount of oil you choose to put in the water is completely up to you. PLEASE NOTE: Make sure the container you end up putting the final product in prevents the materials inside from being contaminated from light. An amber, cobalt blue or green glass container will work fine. And also be sure to attach an atomizer, mister or spray pump for easy dissipation of contents. You can get real creative by making blends for the kitchen (Basil, Oregano, or Fennel) or one for the bathroom (Geranium, Chamomile, or Spearmint) or one for your pets area (Bay, Peppermint or Eucalyptus). Always shake well before using, and store in the refrigerator.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Aromatherapy Essential Oils
HERBAL BATHS
Herbal baths include the use of various herbal additives to enhance the natural healing power of the water. They are baths to which plant decoctions or infusions have been added. There are full and partial herbal baths. For a full bath some of the medicinal plant parts should be sewn into a cloth bag and then boiled in a quart of water; the strained mixture is then added to the bath. Sometimes you can put the bag right into the tub for a more thorough extraction of the herbal properties.
HERBAL CAPSULES
Herbal capsules are often a good choice for taking herbs that have an unpalatable flavor (such as Valerian) and do not lend themselves for making herbal infusions or even tinctures. Other Advantages to Making Herbal Capsules:
- You can customize your blend of herbs.
- Capsules are easy to take and easy to carry with you.
- You can be assured of the freshness & quality of herbs you use.
- You can customize your dosages.
MAKING HERBAL CAPSULES
If you are using herbs from your garden make sure they are absolutely dry. Grind dried herbs in a spice grinder to the finest consistency you can. Place the powdered herbs into Veggie caps. Note: Gelatin capsules are often cheaper, but they are gummy and difficult to digest. They are also a by-product of the slaughter industry. Plant based veggie caps are completely digestible and very affordable if you buy them in bulk. Capsules generally come in sizes 00 or 0. 00 are bigger. Dosages for capsules will vary by herb so consult an herbal handbook. Store your capsules in airtight containers away from heat.
HERBAL COLD EXTRACT
Preparing herbs with cold water preserves the most volatile ingredients, while extracting only minor amounts of mineral salts and bitter principles. Add about double the amount of plant material used for an infusion to cold water and let sit for about 8 to 12 hours, strain and drink.
HERBAL CREAMS
Creams are an emulsion of oil and a water soluble liquid, allowing the final product to be readily absorbed by the skin. The easiest way to make creams is to buy an emulsifying cream from the natural products store or the drugstore, and heat the desired herb plant material in it.
2 Tablespoons Emulsifying Cream
1 Tablespoon Dried Herbs
A Fine Mesh Strainer
Instructions:
Melt the emulsifying cream in a bowl placed over a pot of boiling water.
Add one large tablespoon of dried herbs to the mixture. Stir slowly until you see the cream taking on the color of the herbs.
Remove the mixture from heat and strain. Squeeze out the remaining liquid from the clump.
Allow the cream to cool in a glass bowl.
Spoon the cream into small, dark bottles, and store in a cool, dark place. Cream will be preserved for use for up to one year.
Suggested herbs: Lavender, Pink Rose Petals, Chamomile, Oat Straw, Hibiscus, Green Tea, Rooibos Red Tea, and Slippery Elm.
HERBAL DECOCTION
An herbal decoction is similar to an infusion and necessary when using tougher plant material like herbal roots, barks, seeds, berries, and stems. These parts need to have their active components extracted in a more intense process. However, this method or preparation allows you to extract primarily the mineral salts and bitter principles rather than vitamins and volatile ingredients. Boil about half an ounces of plant parts per cup of water for up to 4 minutes. Steep the mixture with the cover on the pot for a few minutes.
STANDARD DECOCTION
1 ounce of dried herb
3 cups of water
Bring water to a rolling boil, then add herbs and cover; reduce heat; let mixture simmer for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat; leave to soak another 10 minutes; keep covered throughout the process; strain, cool and use. Internal dose is usually 1/2 cup, 3 times a day. Store in a pitcher in a cool place or refrigerate. The decoction can be reheated and flavored with a little honey if desired.
STRONG DECOCTION
1 Ounce Herb
1 Quart (32 Ounces) Water
Combine quart of water with one part of herb (by weight), bring slowly to a boil, continue for ten minutes, cool until warm, and strain. Pour additional water through the herb to return the volume to a quart.
A WEAK DECOCTION is the same, but using half as much herb in the same volume of water.
1/2 Ounce Herb
1 Quart Water
COMMENTS: Except for the weak decoction, the above teas end up with an ounce having the constituents of a gram of herb. If the dosage recommends 4 ounces of Strong Decoction, and you only want a single batch, use 4 grams of herb, or divide an ounce of herb into eight equal parts and use one part for the tea. (Yes, they are not quite equal... 4 grams and an eighth of an ounce...but these are HERBS...lighten up already... it's not rocket science and it doesn't have to be exact!).
DO NOT MAKE MORE THAN A DAY'S WORTH OF TEA AT ONE TIME. If you do, refrigerate it.
HERBAL ESSENCES
Dissolve 1 ounce of the herb's essential oil in a pint of alcohol. This method preserves the volatile oils of many plants which are not water-soluble.
HERBAL EYEWASH & DOUCHE
Make an isotonic water by adding a slightly rounded teaspoon of salt to a quart of distilled or quality bottled water (1/2 teaspoon per pint, 1/4 teaspoon per cup), and make the tea with this solution as per the recommended strength. Make a fresh batch every 5-6 hours.
An herbal eye wash can be made by making an infusion of water and herbs and used as a eye wash for infections.
HERBAL INFUSION
Similar to tea, but steeped longer.
2 teaspoons of dried herbs (more if fluffy)
1 cup of water
Instructions: Boil the water without herbs in it. Turn off heat, add herbs, cover and let steep for 10 minutes.; Strain & drink. You can make the concoction in the cup-sized doses or larger teapot doses. If using for medicinal value, the infusion should be consumed in 8-ounce doses, three times a day.
For storage: Cover mixture, store in a cool place, and use within 24 hours.
INFUSION - QUICK PREP METHOD - This is a beverage made like tea, combining boiled water with the plants and steeping it to extract the active ingredients. The normal amounts are about 1/2 to 1 ounce of the plant to one pint of boiled water. You should let the mixture steep for five to ten minutes, covered, and strain the infusion into a cup.
Herbal infusions are potent water-based preparations. They are superb for extracting the medicinal properties of dried herbs. You can drink them or use them externally as skin washes, compresses, douches, sitz baths,or poultices.
How are they different from a tea? They are made using larger amounts of herbs and are steeped in an air-tight container for at least several hours. You can drink them at room temperature, reheated, or over ice. Quart size canning jars are ideal to use because they rarely break when you pour boiling water into them as long as they are at room temperature when water is added. They also allow for a tight seal.
INFUSION - Using Dried LeavesINFUSION - Using Dried Roots or Barks
- Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried leaves into a quart jar and fill the jar with boiling water.
- Screw the lid on tight and let steep until completely cool.
- Strain out plant material.
INFUSION - Using Dried Flowers
- Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried roots or bark into a pint jar and fill the jar with boiling water.
- Screw the lid on tight and let steep until completely cool.
- Strain out plant material.
INFUSION - Using Dried Seeds
- Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried flowers into a quart jar and fill the jar with boiling water.
- Screw the lid on tight and let steep 2 or 3 hours.
- Strain out plant material.
INFUSION - Herbal Baths: When used in the tub, the medicinal properties of an herbal infusion will be absorbed through the skin. Add 2 quarts of a strained infusion to your bath water and enjoy.
- Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried seeds into a pint jar and fill the jar with boiling water.
- Screw the lid on tight and let steep for 1/2 hour - no more or the taste will be bitter.
- Strain out seeds.
INFUSION - Herbal Sitz Bath: For a sitz bath, fill a large, shallow bowl or pan with at least 2 quarts of strained infusion and have a seat.
INFUSION - Herbal Poultices: For an herbal poultice you will retain the plant material from your infusion and apply it directly to the desired area. The liquid can be used to wash the area first if desired. This is an effective way to treat infections or wounds.
INFUSION - Herbal Compress: For an herbal compress you retain the plant material from an infusion and place it in a clean cloth or piece of gauze. Place it on desired area. You can dip it in the liquid from your infusion if desired. Compresses are useful for treating eye styes or when you don't want plant material to enter open wounds.
HERBAL JUICE
Chop and press fresh plant parts to make juice, then add a bit of water and press again. This is excellent for getting vitamins and minerals from the plant. Drink the juice right away for the best results.
HERBAL OILS
Oils of olive, almond, coconut or almond are all good choices and it is best to use fresh plant material though some dried roots are appropriate provided they have been thoroughly dried. (You can bake roots at a very low temperature for 1 hour before using.) Note: This is not the same preparation as Essential Oils, which is a highly concentrated extraction of the plant's natural oils.
Select fresh, dry plants. Wipe off any dirt and discard damaged parts. You should select enough plant material to completely fill the jar you are going to be using.
Coarsely chop the herbs and pack them into a clean and very dry jar. Use a jar with a very tight fitting lid as some herbs will "gas-off" which can cause oozing.
Pour your oil slowly over the herbs all the way to the very top of the jar. Poke the herbs with a long, thin object to eliminate as many air pockets as possible This will reduce the opportunity for mold to grow. Fill with oil to the very top and screw the lid on very tight.
Label your jar with the date and type of herbs and oil used.
Keep the jar on a flat surface at normal room temperature for 6-8 weeks. Leaving the herbs in longer could result in mold.
Pour off into a clean, very dry jar. Strain herbs through a clean piece of cloth.
Let sit for several days after you decant it to let any water that seeped from the herbs settle to the bottom of your jar. Pour off into a new clean, very dry jar.
Label your creation and store in a cool dark place.
MULLEIN OIL RECIPE
When the Mullein flowers start blooming try this simple recipe for mullein oil. Collect a cupful of the fresh flowers, after the morning dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day. Put flowers in a clean glass jar and cover with olive oil. Place jar in a sunny window or outside in the sun for 10-14 days, shaking often. After this time period press and strain the oil. Repeat the procedure three times using the same oil to cover more freshly picked flowers. After your final infusion, strain cork and store the medicine in a cool dark place ready for use.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Mullein Bulk Herbs
MULLEIN OIL FOR EARACHES
Use by applying it warm, a few drops down each ear canal.
This Mullein Oil is a great healing oil that is easy to make yourself and is impossible to purchase. Take the time and effort into making some of your own.
CROCKPOT GINGER OIL RECIPE
Fresh Ginger oil is one of the hardest infused oils to make, as any herbalist will remind us of how quickly it becomes a disastrous rotten mess. But with the magic of a crock pot and a little patience, this heartwarming, inexpensive oil can be treasured by anyone. The key is to leave the top open or half off and allow the moisture to escape.
2 cups Fresh Ginger Root, Cut Into Chunks
3 1/2 Cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Jojoba Oil
Place ginger into crock pot on lowest setting, or low alternate heat setting. Cover with the Oil. Leave on for two days with monitoring as not to boil or burn the oil. The cover should be left ajar to allow the evaporation of water from the ginger root. It will make your house smell like ginger while you are preparing the oil. Decant and strain your oil. Let your oil sit in a clear mason jar for a day, and you may see some additional water/oil separation. Separate them by carefully pouring off the oil from the water, or by siphoning out with a clean turkey blaster. Be sure to complete your oil so that it has no remaining water content. It will take some patience but is well worth it. You will NOT have the same glorious results by using dry root or the essential oil.
USES FOR GINGER OIL
- Treat your cold feet to the warm protection and circulatory pump of ginger oil before you put your boots on for winter shoveling.
- Rub onto your lower belly for supreme menstrual comfort during your period.
- Massage into stiff aching joints from dryness, fatigue, or arthritis.
- Rub into sore muscles before or after athletics.
- Add to a bath full of hot water and Epsom salts.
- Add it to a tamari salad dressing.
- Give it away to an aching elderly person as a gift.
- Make a Ginger- Eucalyptus chest rub salve.
- Massage congested breast tissue and lymph glands.
- Mix it with half glycerin for a very warm and erotic love lubricant!
HERBAL OINTMENTS, SALVES, BALMS, AND LOTIONS
OINTMENT QUICK PREP METHOD: Combine well one part of your powdered remedy with four parts hot petroleum jelly or lard. Vegetable butters can make a good base for ointments and lotions. For purists: Add the decoction of the desired herb to olive oil and simmer until the water has completely evaporated. Add beeswax as needed to get a firm consistency. A little gum benzoin or a drop of tincture of benzoin per ounce of fat will help preserve the ointment.
An Herbal Salve or Ointment is easy to make at home using infused oils and beeswax. The type of salve you are making will depend on the type of infused oil you are using. Comfrey and calendula make a nice healing salve. Save small glass condiment jars and lids (like the kind artichoke hearts or pimentos come in) for storing your creations. You will need a small enamel pan, a grater, and a wooden spoon.
MAKING HERBAL SALVE OR OINTMENT
Warm 2 ounces of infused oil on very low heat, just until warm.
Add 2 tablespoons of grated beeswax and stir until completely melted and incorporated with the oil. You can also add a drop or 2 of essential oil at this point for fragrance.
Pour mixture into a small, shallow, glass jar and let it cool until solid.
If it is too soft reheat it and add a bit more beeswax. If it is too hard reheat it and add a touch more oil.
Once completely cool screw the lid on tight and label.
ANOTHER RECIPE FOR HERBAL OINTMENT
Beeswax is the thickening agent used in herbal oils to convert them to ointments (or balms.) In addition to the nutrition found in the herbs, themselves, beeswax also adds its owns nutrients to the finished product. To make an herbal ointment, first make the oil extraction as follows:
Put 7 ounces dried herb (or mixture of herbs), into a quart jar along with 20 ounces of extra virgin olive oil and 8 ounces of wheat germ oil. Put the lid on the canning jar and set it in the sun for 4 hours to 3 days. Then strain or press the oil from the herbs (cheesecloth or muslin works well.) Add enough olive oil to regain 28 ounces of oil.
To make the oil into an ointment: Melt 6 ounces of beeswax in the top of a double boiler. In another pan heat the oil to 140°F, then pour into the melted beeswax. Stir while cooling, and pour mixture into ointment jars when the temperature has reached approximately 120°F. Put the lids on the jars only when completely cool. Be sure to label the jar so you will know what kind of ointment it contains and when it was made.
NON-PETROLEUM JELLY
Useful for making ointments.
1 ounce Beeswax
1/2 cup Sweet Almond or Olive Oil
Double Boiler
Instructions: Melt the beeswax in the oil in the top of a double boiler. Pour out into suitable container and allow to set up.
Mix the non-petroleum jelly with herb-infused oil or a powdered herb to make an ointment.
Suggestions: Mix with Ginger Root Powder and spread on the chest for bronchitis. Mix with Green Tea Powder for an anti-wrinkle treatment.
BODY BUTTER RECIPE
1 1/2 Ounces Beeswax
4 Ounces Olive oil
(The Olive Oil can be infused with herbs, if desired, such as Chamomile, Comfrey, St. Johns Wort, Calendula etc.)
1 Tablespoon Cocoa Butter
10-30 Drops Vitamin E Oil
1-2 Tablespoon Shea Butter
20 Drops Carrot Seed Essential Oil
30 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
10 Drops Geranium Essential Oil
20 Drops Frankincense Essential Oil (Optional)
Melt your beeswax, cocoa butter and olive/herb oil in the upper portion of a double boiler over low heat. Remove from heat, carefully dry the water off the bottom. Add the shea butter, vitamin E, and then the essential oils and swirl to incorporate. Pour into container/s of choice and allow to fully cool before capping. Apply on skin before bed or after bathing for buttery rich and soothed skin.
EASY COMFREY SALVE RECIPE
This is a super simple recipe for comfrey salve recipe to utilize all that comfrey in your garden! This salve also makes great gifts for friends and family.
2 Cups Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Ounce (about 2 Tablespoons) Fresh Comfrey Leaves (or 1/2 Ounce Dried)
1 Ounce (about 2 Tablespoons) Fresh Lavender Flowers (or 1/2 Ounce Dried)
1 Ounce (about 2 Tablespoons) Fresh Calendula Flowers (or 1/2 Ounce Dried)
1/2 Cup Beeswax
Gently warm the olive oil and the herbs in the top of a double boiler for about 30 minutes. Stir frequently. It should bubble a bit at the edges, but not throughout the mixture. Strain out the oil by pouring through a strainer. Discard herbs and reserve oil. Melt your beeswax in the top of the double boiler. Add the strained oil and stir until completely blended. Pour the mixture into jars or salve tins. Once it is cool, label and date your creation.
LIP CARE - LIP BALM RECIPES
A basic lip balm recipe usually contains these ingredients in these proportions:
20% Beeswax
25% solid at room temperature oil (Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Shea Butter, Lanolin, etc.)
15% brittle at room temperature oil (Regular Cocoa Butter, Palm Kernel Oil, etc.)
40% liquid oil at room temperature (Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, etc.)
Of course you can customize your creations by adding different flavorings and essential oils to get the desired effect you are after.
COOL MINT LIP BALM RECIPE
3 Ounce Almond Oil
1/2 Ounce Beeswax
2 Tablespoons Honey
3-4 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil
Melt the almond oil and beeswax in a small sauce pan over low heat until wax is soft. Remove from heat. Add Honey and blend the mixture thoroughly. Stir the mixture occasionally as it cools to prevent separation. Pour into jars. Let cool completely before capping.
HERBAL MACERATIONS (SIMPLE PROCESS)
A maceration is essentially an infusion that is made by soaking the herbs in cold instead of boiling water. Some herbs are most effectively infused in cold water, including Valerian and raw garlic cloves.
2 teaspoons of dried herbs (more if fluffy)
1 cup of cold water
Instructions: Place the herbs in the cold water and leave the mixture overnight or up 18 hours in a cool place. Strain the mixture, and consume the same way you would an infusion. If using for medicinal value, the maceration should be consumed in 8-ounce doses, three times a day.
HERBAL OIL INFUSIONS (HOT & COLD)
Infused Oils are made by extracting the herbal constituents and volatile oils from the herbs for a later use. Any vegetable oil will do, yet olive, almond, canola, and sesame oils are the best. Herbal oils can be added to cosmetics, cold process soap recipes, for culinary use, or massaged into sore body parts. Herbal oils can be infused by two methods; cold infusion and hot infusion.
OIL INFUSION (HOT)
You will need:
1 cup of dried herbs
2 cups of oil
A large glass bowl that can fit on top of a pot
Pot holders to handle the glass bowl
Instructions:
Prepare a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water. Place the herbs and oil in the glass bowl.
Heat mixture slowly over low heat for about 3 hours.
Strain into a bowl. Let the oil cool, then transfer into dark, glass bottles sealed with a cap.
Store in a cool, dark place.
OIL INFUSION (COLD)
You will need:
A large jar like a mason jar with a tight sealing lid
3-4 cups of dried herbs
4 cups of oil (depending on the size of the jar)
Instructions: Obtain a large jar with a tightly sealing lid, and fill it compactly with herb flowers or leaves.
Pour in the oil, covering the herbs, and screw on the lid.
Place jar on a sunny windowsill for about a month. Remember to shake and turn the jar daily.
Strain the mixture, capturing the oil in another container.
Transfer the oil into a dark bottle, and store in a cool, dark place.
Note: Use dried herbs. Fresh herbs contain water and could cause the oil to go rancid.
HOT & COLD OIL INFUSION RECOMMENDATIONS
For Culinary Use: Try Basil, Bay Leaves, crushed Cayenne Pepper, Coriander, Fennel Seeds, cut Ginger Root, Lemon Grass, Orange Peel, Oregano, Parsley, Tellicherry Peppercorns, Rosemary, and Thyme.
For Topical/Skin Care Use: Try Lavender, Calendula Petals, Arnica, Pink Rose Petals, Chamomile, Oat Straw, Hibiscus, Green Tea, Rooibos Red Tea, and Slippery Elm.
For Ear Infections: Try a combination of Garlic & Mullein.
HERBAL PILLS
Pills are used in the same way as gelatin capsules, but they have the advantage that they can be prepared entirely with herbs and the herbs do not need be powdered so finely. Coarse powders can be made from the dried or cut herb using a coffee mill/grinder.
10 tablespoons of Ground Herb
1 tablespoon of Slippery Elm Powder
Instructions: Mix the ground herbs with the Slippery Elm, slowly add water and mix it in with the herbs until a doughy consistency is reached. Alternatively, you can use a little Acacia dissolved in boiling water as a good adhesive. Roll the dough into little balls about the size of a pea. The pills may be taken immediately, but to preserve them for later use, dry them in the warm air or in an oven on low heat.
The pea-sized pills contain about half the dose of a gelatin capsule, therefore when following a dosage schedule for capsules, use twice the number indicated when using pills as a substitute.
HERBAL POULTICE (BASIC PASTE / PLASTER)
Poultices act by increasing blood flow, relaxing tense muscles, soothing inflamed tissues, or drawing toxins from an infected area. Thus, they can be used to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with abscesses; boils; bruises; carbuncles; fibrocystic disease; fractures; enlarged glands in the neck, breast or prostate; leg ulcers; sprains; sunburn; tumors; and ulcerated eyelids. They are also used to break up congestion, draw out pus, and remove embedded particles from the skin.
You will need:
1 cup dried herbs
1 cup of just boiled water
French Clay, Bentonite Clay, Flour or Corn Meal
Soft cloth or flannel
Instructions:
Mix the herbs with the water, then add enough of the clay, flour, or corn meal to make a thick paste that can be easily applied. Spread the paste onto the center of a soft cloth which measures about 6 to 8 inches square and has about 4 layers of thickness. Apply directly to the area with the paste side against the skin and press it down a bit so it sticks to the skin. Cover with a dry cloth and leave in place until the paste pulls away on its own.
Suggested herbs: Slippery Elm, Mullein, Arnica, Comfrey
POULTICE (STEAMED)
1 cup dried herbs
A pot with water in it
A colander
Soft cloth or flannel
Instructions: Place a colander over a pot of rapidly boiling water. Make sure that the water will not touch the herb material in the colander. Steam the herbs until they are drenched and softened. Remove and wait about 10 minutes, then take the steamed herbal mass to the affected area. Cover with a cloth to hold in the heat and wrap with a dry cloth. When the poultice cools, reapply as needed.
Recommended Herbs: Slippery Elm, Mullein, Arnica, Comfrey
QUICK POULTICE
To make a poultice, you just crush the medicinal parts of the plant to a pulpy mass and heat. Mix with a hot, sticky substance such as moist flour or corn meal. Apply the pasty mixture directly to the skin. Wrap a hot towel around and moisten the towel periodically. A poultice will draw impurities from the body.
HERBAL POWDERS
Grind your dried plant parts until you have a powder. the powder can be taken with water, milk, soup, or swallowed in gelatin capsules. This can be done using a ceramic pestle and mortar (these come in a variety of sizes).
Stubborn dried roots can be powdered in a coffee mill, a handheld coffee grinder can be used to make herbal root powder. If you will be doing much work with herbs, you should have a coffee grinder just for powdering herbs.
A standard size 00 capsule will hold about 200-250 mg of powder when being done by hand, with the standard dose being 2 to 3 capsules taken 2 or 3 times a day. To fill the capsule with the powdered herb, place the powder in a saucer and separate the two halves of the capsule. Slide the 2 halves together through the powder. Fit the halves together and store in a dark glass jar in a dark place out of direct heat.
For larger quantities and for more concentrated capsules, I recommend our Cap-M-Quik Capsule Filler Kit. It can make 50 at a time and it comes with a tamper that allows you to compact the herbs so that the 00 capsules will hold about 800 mg of powder.
HERBAL SALVES
Salves are made by combining heated oil with a particular herb until the oil absorbs the plants healing properties. Adding beeswax will thicken the mixture to the desired consistency.
MOST COMMON RECIPE:
5 ounces of herb infused oil (recipe above)
2 ounces of beeswax
Optional: 1 drop Tincture of Benzoin or Grapefruit Seed Extract per ounce of salve (as a preservative)
A large glass bowl that can fit on top of a pot
Pot holders to handle the glass bowl
Instructions:
Pour the infused oil into the glass bowl, and place over a pot of boiling water. Add the beeswax to the infused oil, stirring constantly until the wax has completely melted. The beeswax will thicken the mixture, giving it just the right consistency. You can now add one drop of preservative per each ounce of mixture at this point (optional). Pour the warm liquid into small, dark ointment jars. Store in a cool, dark place.
ALTERNATE RECIPE WHEN YOU DO NOT ALREADY HAVE AN HERB INFUSED OIL:
You will need:
A few tablespoons of dried herbs
1 cup of water
5 ounces of oil
2 ounces of beeswax
Instructions:
Boil herbs in water until sufficiently extracted; strain and put wet herbs back into the pot. Add oil to the herbs and continue to simmer till all the water evaporates; add the beeswax, stirring constantly until the wax has completely melted. The beeswax will thicken the mixture, giving it just the right consistency. You can now add one drop of preservative per each ounce of mixture at this point (optional). Pour the warm liquid into small, dark ointment jars. Store in a cool, dark place.
Recommended Herbs: Comfrey, Arnica, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Echinacea, or Peach Leaf, for pain try a combination of Cayenne, Willow Bark, Wintergreen, & Eucalyptus, for insect bites try St. John's Wort with Basil, Cloves, & Lavender.
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) Liquid Concentrate, 1 gallon
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) Liquid Concentrate, 4 fl oz.
HerbalRemedies: Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) Liquid Concentrate, 2 fl oz.
HERBAL SUPPOSITORY / BOLUS
This is a preparation of herbs mixed with a suppository base and molded into special shapes for insertion into the rectum, vagina, or urethra. The suppository bases are solid at room temperature but melt at the temperature of the body. Suppositories should be stored in a refrigerator, especially during the summer. The best shape for these is a torpedo-shaped cylinder about 2" in length and with the center bulging and the ends tapered. Aluminum foil can be used to shape a mold or you can purchase molds.
3 ounces of cocoa butter
1 oz finely powdered herbs
Instructions:
Simmer the herbs and cocoa butter in the top of a double boiler until well combined and liquid in form. Pour out into a foil mold, allow to harden, and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
HERBAL SYRUPS
You can make an herbal infusion, decoction, or tincture into a syrup, using sugar or honey as a preservative. Herbal syrups are soothing for coughs, sore throats, and other common respiratory ailments.
One pint of either the Herb Infusion (not the oil infused) or an Herb Decoction
One pound of Unrefined Sugar or Honey
Instructions:
Stir mixture together in a saucepan and boil until the sugar or honey has dissolved completely. The mixture has become a syrup at this point.
Let the syrup cool. Store the syrup in dark, glass bottles capped with a cork or another non-sealing lid. It is important that the syrup is not kept in a tightly sealed container because as the syrup begins to ferment it may cause the bottle to explode. Store in the refrigerator.
Recommended Herbs For Sore Throats (Combine as many as you can): Ginger Root, Licorice Root, Rosemary, Mullein, Thyme, Slippery Elm Bark, Echinacea, and Sage.
QUICK HERBAL SYRUP
Make a basic syrup to which you will add medicinal ingredients by boiling 3 pounds of raw, brown sugar in a pint of water until it reaches the right consistency.
HERBAL TEA
Making herbal teas may be the easiest of all herbal remedies. Herbal teas can be made by simply adding fresh or dried herbs to a pot, or cup of boiled water. To begin, place 1 teaspoon of dried herbs per 1 cup of water into a teapot or teacup. Add boiling water, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. You must then strain your tea by pouring it through a strainer of some sort. You can also use an Herb & Tea Strainer Ball.
HERBAL TINCTURES
Herbal tinctures are potent, spirit based, liquid extracts. They are made using fresh plant material and liquid base such as vodka, brandy, vegetable glycerin, or even apple cider vinegar. I have had some good success in using dried herbal material in place of fresh when making tinctures in a pinch and if a need arises and I do not have fresh material available (such as winter or early spring months). Be sure to get good quality plant material, whether it is fresh or dried.
Herbal tinctures allow you to make an herbal remedy and store it for a long period of time, making them available at short notice to be used with teas, salves, creams, etc. to make an instant herbal remedy. Tinctures are made by steeping dried herbs in alcohol or vinegar. The liquid extracts the volatile oils and active constituents from the herbs, and preserves them for up to 2 years. Vodka is the best alcohol to use due to its tastelessness. A standard herbal tincture should have 1 fluid ounce of pure alcohol for every ounce of water; essentially 50% alcohol. This ratio is up for some debate. Some people recommend 100% alcohol, others say 3 to 1 alcohol/water
8 ounces of dried herbs, be sure to cut the herbs into small pieces first.
A large glass jar that can hold 4 cups of liquid (adjust liquid amount to fit in jar if necessary)
2 cups of 100% Pure Grain Ethyl Alcohol (195-200 Proof)
2 cups of water
Or 4 cups of 50% (100 Proof) Vodka
Instructions:
Put the dried herb into a large, glass jar and pour in equal amount of liquid, making sure the herbs are completely covered (this is very important). Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks, preferably 4. Make sure to shake the mixture every day. When ready to use, filter the mixture using a cheesecloth bag, coffee filter, or fine cloth, capturing the tincture liquid below in another container. Store the tincture in clean, dark glass containers, out of the sun. If stored properly the tincture will be preserved for two or more years.
A drop of tincture is equal to 1 tsp of herb juice.
FOR VINEGAR TINCTURES
use 1 ounce of herb per 5 ounces of vinegar.
HerbalRemedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Dynamic Health, Organic, 16 fl. oz.
SELECTING YOUR SPIRIT
Most commercial preparations are made with 198 proof grain alcohol. A simple and very effective choice is 100 proof vodka. It's clear, affordable and easy to obtain. 100 proof means it is exactly half water and half alcohol. This makes figuring dosages easy as most dosages recommended by herbalists are based on the assumption that a tincture was made at 50% - 1/2 water, 1/2 alcohol. If you are concerned about ingesting the alcohol, it has been recommended that you can place the bottle of tincture in boiling water for 1-2 minutes which will remove about 1/2 the alcohol. You may also use glycerin or cider vinegar. These will not be as strong as alcohol based ones, but they will still be effective and are often a good choice for children's remedies. *Note: If using vinegar, heat it slightly before pouring. It should be warm, not hot.
HOW TO MAKE HERBAL TINCTURES
After picking your fresh herbs, pick through them and remove any dirty or damaged parts but do not wash them.
Coarsely chop stems, leaves and roots. You can leave flowers whole.
Put your herbs in a clean and dry glass jar and fill with the liquid of your choice. The herbs need to be completely immersed in liquid.
Cap the jar tightly with an airtight lid.
Label your creation with the ingredients and date and store in a dark place for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain out the herbs and pour tincture into clean, dry bottles. Label with the date and ingredients used.
ADVANTAGES OF TINCTURES
Tinctures remain potent for many years.
Many doses are obtained from a small amount of plant material.
Tinctures are quite effective in smaller doses so they are easy to carry with you and convenient to take. Some herbal compounds can only be extracted by alcohol.
Tincture's are fast-acting and dosages are easily controlled.
TIP: When you do buy commercially prepared tinctures save the empty bottles to refill with your own tinctures!
HERBAL VINEGARS
Looking for a delicious, inexpensive way to boost your mineral intake? Try making some herbal vinegars.
While minerals like calcium are not easily extracted in water, they dissolve quite easily into vinegar.
For centuries, wise women have used apple cider vinegar combined with mineral-rich herbs, in place of calcium supplements to help build stronger bones. It is said that a tablespoon of herbal infused vinegar has as much calcium as a glass of milk.
"Adding vinegar to your food actually helps build bones because it frees up minerals from the vegetables you eat. Adding a splash of vinegar to cooked greens is a classic trick of old ladies who want to be spry and flexible when they're ancient old ladies. In fact, a spoonful of vinegar on your broccoli or kale or dandelion greens increases the calcium you get by one-third." ~ Susun Weed
SELECTING HERBS FOR HERBAL VINEGAR
Try experimenting with different aromatic herbs. Some herbs, like thyme, oregano, rosemary or dill will be delightful in salad dressings and marinades. Others, like nettle, chicory, burdock, dandelion, mustard greens, kale, lambs quarters, etc, will be more nutritive and tonic. By experimenting with single herbs one at a time you will discover your favorites.
HerbalRemedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Dynamic Health, Organic, 16 fl. oz.
MAKING HERBAL VINEGAR
Fill a glass jar with your choice of fresh herbs. To get the most nutrients from your herbs, chop them into small pieces first. It is crucial to completely fill your jar with herbs. use single herbs one at a time, leaves, roots and flowers. Some people like to combine several herbs.
Pour room-temperature apple cider vinegar over the herbs until it is full to the top. Cover your jar with a plastic screw-on lid. Do not use metal lids because they react to the vinegar in a nasty way! Alternatively, you can use several layers of plastic or wax paper held on with a rubber band, or even a cork if it fits tightly enough. If you use unpasteurized vinegar you may get a film that forms at the top of what is called, 'the mother'. Simply skim it off when you decant.
Label your vinegar with the date and the type of herbs you used.
Place jar in a dark place like a kitchen cupboard or pantry shelf for 6 to 8 weeks.
Strain out the herbs and bottle the vinegar. (Again, avoid metal lids.)
Some people like to eat the "pickled" herbs rather than discard them.
USING HERBAL VINEGARS
Add a splash to cooked greens.
Use them in your salad dressing.
Add to cooked beans or stir fry.
Dilute in a small amount of water and drink them down.
FIRE CIDER RECIPE
For an herbal vinegar with a real kick try some Fire Cider. Some people steep this recipe for 2 weeks while others say 2 or 3 months. The longer it is steeped, the stronger the flavor. Average is at least 8 weeks. However, if you need it sooner you may certainly use it after just several weeks.
Fire Cider is a tonic. It has great flavor in its ingredients and can be sipped in small amounts daily starting in the fall and all throughout the winter months. This recipe is an inexpensive, effective way to treat or stave off colds and flues, and to break up congestion. Some of the traditional benefits of Fire Cider's ingredients include:Horseradish: The antibacterial properties of Horseradish have been used to fight bacteria. Horseradish strongly stimulates the digestion, increasing gastric secretions and appetite. It is also a good diuretic that promotes perspiration, making it useful in fevers, colds, and flu. Horseradish is also an expectorant and mildly antibiotic, and can be of use in both respiratory and urinary tract infections.
Ginger: This is valued for its ability to warm the stomach, to ease vomiting and nausea and to fight off colds, chills and coughs. Ginger is useful for all types of congestion in the body.
Garlic: This supports the immune function and opens the pores of the skin to lower a fever. This herb's antibacterial and antimicrobial properties make it useful in treating bladder and kidney infections, yeast infections, strep throats and ear infections.
Cayenne: This is useful for increasing circulation and to get mucus flowing. This herb is an anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant. It is used as a digestive aid to stimulates gastric juices. Many people report relief from migraines with this herb as well.
1 Quart Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 Cup Horseradish Root Grated
1/8 Cup Garlic, Chopped
1/2 Cup Onion, Chopped
1/2 Cup Ginger Root, Grated
1 Teaspoon Cayenne
Place all ingredients in a quart jar and cover with Apple Cider Vinegar. Cover tightly. Steep for 8 weeks. Strain into clean jar.
USING FIRE CIDER
- Rub into sore muscles and aching joints.
- Soak a clean cloth in Fire Cider to place on a congested chest.
- Drink it straight or diluted in a bit of water or tomato juice. Start out with a teaspoon or so to test your tolerance level.
- Mix with a bit of honey to ease a cough.
Individual tolerance to the heat will vary so you and your family will want to experiment with quantity. Some people can drink a shot glass at a time. Others will want only a few drops mixed with honey, or only topically. (A woman in her late 80's snorted small amounts from a spoon to clean out her nasal passages!)
HerbalRemedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Dynamic Health, Organic, 16 fl. oz.
HERBAL WINES
One of the many pleasures of a life is good food and the makings of fine drink. Sitting and looking at a glass of Dandelion wine or a glass of Honey Wine (called Mead) in your hand, the golden glow of the flickering firelight passing through the pale amber nectar may bring back memories of the Spring and the picking and preparation that led to this delicious brew. Anyone who has ever made their own wine or beer will understand the feelings involved with making your own brewed drink. Usually when most people think of wine, it refers to a wine produced by a large brewing company and store bought liquid, made from grapes grown either domestically in places like California's Napa Valley or an exotic foreign country. However until very recently, many other varieties of fruit and even flowers were used by enterprising brewers. Dandelion, Red Clover, Rosemary and Rose flowers were all used and all have their own distinctive nose, flavor and effect Herbs were used for their traditional medicinal values, the wine-making process being me rely the method of preservation.
Dandelion for the digestion and liver.
Cowslip to help with sleep.
Clover flowers as a tonic and mild euphoriant.
These herb wines are very simply made, with minimal amounts of time and equipment and once tried and successfully imbibed, they can become an integral part of your routine and life style. After all, what better way is there to take your medicine than in a glass of fragrant homemade brew of herbs and flowers and perhaps honey?
BASIC HERBAL WINE RECIPE
Two quarts of Red Clover or Dandelion flower-heads. (Or any other type of edible/medicinal flower. Good ones to try are Calendula, Rose, Violet, Elderflower, etc; Use your own judgment, the recipe is good for almost any combination of flowers and herbs).
One Kilo of sugar and lemons. Four ounces uncoated raisins or sultanas. One packet Champagne type wine yeast.
You will also need some equipment, most of which can be found in the kitchen, viz: One, two or three gallon container, (stainless steel, earthenware, glass or unchipped enamel).
A one gallon glass flagon, Fermentation lock, campden tablets and siphon tube. (These can be obtained quite inexpensively from any home-brewing store).
Preparation: Pick the flowers on a sunny morning after the dew has dried. They are best picked after several days of full sun but Mother Nature is not always so obliging. Choose only the best flowers and discard all green parts at the base of the flowers since they will make the wine bitter. Collect two full quarts of flowers for each gallon you wish to make. It is very important that you collect only from areas that have not been sprayed with garden or agricultural pest sprays. Avoid all roadside flowers as they contain high levels of pollutants. It is important before starting in the kitchen to ensure that all the implements and containers used are scrupulously clean. Make up a sterilizing solution using the campden tablets, (follow the instructions on the pack) and then thoroughly rinse and clean everything you intend to use. This is the most important operation in home wine making, get it right and your wines turnout perfectly every time, screw-up and your friends will find all sorts of reasons for why they can't pop over to watch the game, join the barbecue, etc; etc; Anyway, we are digressing. Back to the wine.
Clean the flowers of insects and dirt and place them into the largest container. Add the juice from the three lemons and the washed raisins or sultanas, and immediately pour over them six pints of boiling water. Stir it all up with a sterilized spoon, cover the container with a sterilized lid and leave to stand for twenty four hours.
Next day, lift up the lid and take a peek at the dead flowers and other bits, floating in the water. Give it all a good stir and then strain out the liquid into a clean sterilized container. Rinse out your original container with some sulfide solution and then immediately pour the strained liquid back in. Add the sugar and two pints of boiling water, stirring well so as to dissolve the sugar, and then add the yeast, which has been prepared beforehand as instructed on the package. Stir it again, cover and put it away in a warm spot where the temperature stays around 70-80 degrees. Now forget all about it for one month.
The month has passed and you rush like the wind to take a look at your wine. Urgghh!! It smells weird and looks weirder, but do not worry, every thing should work out fine. This is where the siphon, flagon and fermentation lock come into the picture. First sterilize all your equipment with a sulfide solution and rinse thoroughly. Then siphon the contents of your brewing bin into the flagon. This will give you your first taste, but don't despair it gets much better! Set up the fermentation lock as per the manufacturer's instructions, pop it on top of the flagon and now take it back to that warm out of the way place where you hid it before.
Now comes the hardest part of the whole show. You have to forget all about this big bottle of fermenting nectar for at least six months. Don't be tempted to peek inside, smell or taste your new concoction. Do not even think about it! That day is still in the far future.
Six months have passed. Cold weather arrives and the nights are getting longer. Remember the wine?? It's now ready to be bottled. You will need about six or seven bottles for each gallon. Use only those bottles that are designed to hold pressure, i.e. Champagne or sparkling wine bottles, even those thick heavy old-fashioned cola bottles. Use a sulfite solution to sterilize the bottles, corks and caps, and using a sterilized siphon tube, carefully siphon the clear liquid from the flagon into the bottles without disturbing the sediment in the flagon. Tastes pretty good now eh!
To make your wine just a little sparkling add no more than a half teaspoon of sugar to each bottle. Seal the bottles well and let them stand in a warm place for three days. Then place them in the coolest part of the house and wait six more weeks. It will then be just about ready to drink. Of course like many wines it will taste better if left longer, (about a year is best). I have let some of our mead age for up to 3 years before we popped the cork on a bottle.
But of course we ARE all only human and so must inevitably try out the fruits of our labor. Invite around your true friends, break out the best glasses and then carefully open your first delicately cooled bottle, without disturbing the sediment on the bottom. Pour carefully into each glass, filling them all in one delicate movement, again so as not to disturb the sediment. Sit back, raise your glass in a toast and sip this delightful liquid. Revel in the complements and congratulations of your friends, for they are truly deserved. And think of the coming Spring and the fifteen gallons that you plan to brew.
EASY HERBAL TONIC WINES
Like herbal tea, a glass of tonic wine is a delicious way to intake herbal remedies. Using root remedies of tonic herbs like Ginger or Licorice can be a refreshing remedy for ailments. Choose a tonic herb to suit your needs and then begin preparation.
A large glass pot, jar or vat
1 cup of dried herbs
2 cups of a good quality red wine (enough to cover the herbs, add more if necessary)
Instructions:
Mix together the herbs and the wine making sure there's enough wine to completely cover the herbs. Put a lid on the mixture or cellophane wrap. Leave the mix for at least 2 weeks. Filtering out the liquid, drink the mixture in one sherry-sized glass (2-3 fluid ounces) dose per day.
As you pour out the liquid, keep adding more red wine to cover the herb so it does not get moldy. This mixture will last you for several months, as the wine continues to extract the active components of the herbal roots, before the herbs will need to be replaced.
NATURAL HAIR COLORING WITH HENNA
Henna has been used as a hair dye since ancient times in the Middle East Asia. In fact, it was a well-kept beauty secret of ancient queens, Cleopatra and Nefertiti.
Henna is formulated from powdered leaves of the desert shrub plant Lawsonia Lythraceae, which is native to tropical areas in Asia, northern Africa and Australia. This perennial shrub, often used in hedges and gardens, can grow to be 20 feet tall. Its leaf embodies a red-orange color component, lawsone. Henna contains hannatannic acid; mixed with hot water, it coats the hair. It also seals in oils and tightens the hair cuticle, making the hair very shiny and full of body. Because the cuticle is tight and flattened, Henna also helps protect hair from sun damage. As a matter of fact, Henna has gained commercial leverage as a hair conditioner and to stimulate hair growth; scientific studies have even proven that Henna is a better hair conditioner than other commercial conditioners. Regular use texturizes hair, giving it more body and making it visibly fuller. Another really nice thing about Henna is no dark roots as your hair grows! Henna blends naturally and fades gradually - there is never a noticeable regrowth area. Henna's rich color lasts for three months.
Mountain Rose Herbs carries several lustrous shades of Henna: Red, Black, Sherry, Mahogany, Burgundy, Dark Brown, Medium Brown, Light Brown, Copper, Marigold Blonde, Neutral or Strawberry. If you desire even more saturated color, you can add additional natural ingredients to your Henna mix. Mountain Rose provides organically grown Henna ~ no pesticides, no additives, no other coloring agents, no nothing ~just pure, luxurious Henna! Includes easy to follow instructions.
FOR EXAMPLE:
Adding vinegar or brewed black coffee can help cover gray.
Walnut shells boost brown tones.
Rhubarb enhances red shades.
Black tea, chamomile tea or lemon will add blonde highlights.
Hibiscus- or Rosehip-based tea enriches red tones.
Henna is applied as a mud and washed out after one to two hours.
Be sure to use plastic or rubber gloves, wear old clothes, and wrap old towels around your shoulders. It's also a good idea to rub non-petroleum jelly or cream around your hairline to prevent your skin from staining.
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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