medicinal teas
Two major methods for preparing medicinal herbal teas are infusion and decoction.
Infusion is one of the major ways to make herbal medicinal teas. Bring distilled water to a boil, then pour the boiling water over the dried herbs. Putting the herbs in a tea ball can make the process easier. Let the herbs steep in the hot water, typically for twenty minutes. Typical proportions are one ounce (or 28 grams) of dried herbs to one pint of distilled boiling water. After steeping, strain the herbs out (this is why a tea ball is easier). Drink the resulting tea. More info on infusions.
Decoction is one of the major ways to make herbal medicinal teas. Bring distilled water to a boil, then add the dried herbs. Putting the herbs in a tea ball can make the process easier. Simmer the tea on a low heat for ten minutes to one hour, depending on the hardness of the herb or root. Typical proportions are one ounce (or 28 grams) of dried herbs to one pint of distilled water. After simmering, strain the herbs out (this is why a tea ball is easier). Drink the resulting tea. More info on decoctions.
Medicinal teas call for much higher quantities of herbs than regular herbal teas. The amount of herbs in herbal teas are very small, too small to be medically useful.
Self-medication should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care. Please confirm all self-medication with your doctor or health care professional.
