Preparations For Internal Use
Decoctions
These are similar to infusions but prepared from the hard woody parts of plants, such as
the bark, seeds, roots, rhizomes, and nuts, which require greater heat to impart their
constituents to water. Break or hammer them first with pestle and mortar, or chop them
if fresh, then place in a pan with the water, bring to the boil, cover and simmer for
ten minutes and strain. Use a little over a pint of water per ounce of herb to make up
for any lost in the simmering. The dosage is the same as for infusions.
Using Infusions And Decoctions
You can use infusions and decoctions in eyebaths, gargles, mouthwashes, and lotions
generally. Such treatments are given about two to three times daily for chronic problems
and every two hours in acute cases.
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