Guide to medicinal herbs and their use. Some medicinal Herbs can be prepared at home by a lay person.
Herbs have become of great interest to the American public. We use them for everything from the common cold to treating depression. People are fascinated with exploring folk remedies, and seeking less drastic remedies than the powerful pharmaceuticals on the markets. There are many Herbs that can be found in backyards around the country. It is possible to utilize these Herbs for various purposes. There are simple procedures for using plant roots, preparing teas, decoctions, ointment, and tinctures.
Roots are often used in recipes and herbal remedies. If roots are prepared correctly and kept in air-tight jars, they will keep indefinitely. It is important to remove fibrous roots and shake off dirt. Chop the roots or slice them into strips for more thorough drying. The roots should be set in a warm dry place, such as an oven set to warm, or a furnace room that will provide consistent, dry, and warm temperatures. Let roots dry for several hours. These should be stored away from sunlight, and in a moisture free environment.
Herbal teas are prepared by placing the dried herbs in a pot and adding water. Usually about a teaspoon of dried herbs is added per one cup of water. This can be boiled for about 5 minutes for an herbal tea, or boiled longer to create an infusion. The liquid needs to strained from the herb before it is ingested. This can be consumed warm if desired.
A decoction is made from the root, bark, or seed of a plant. This is done by placing these in cold water. The solution needs to be brought to a boil. The temperature then should be reduced. The herbs should be boiled until the volume is reduced to a quarter of its original amount. This solution should be stored in a cool place in sterile dark glass to protect the potency of the mixture.
An ointment made with herbs might be used for topical treatments. This is created by melting 10 ounces of petroleum jelly with an ounce of dried herbs. This should be simmered for about 2 hours allowing the healing qualities of the plants to be thoroughly mixed with the oily liquid. The mixture should be strained, cooled, and stored in an airtight container.
A tincture can be prepare with dried herbs and spirits. The spirits are most often vodka, or other alcoholic solutions of at least 60 proof. The jar should be half filled with herbs. The alcohol is poured directly on the herbs, and the container is closed. This mixture should sit in a dark, cool place for at least two weeks. The herbs need to be strained from this mixture when the process is complete. This solution should be kept in an airtight container, and used in small doses.
Essential oils are also utilized from plants for various purposes. This can be more complicated depending on the specific plant used and the delicacy of the oil. It takes 60,000 roses to make one ounce of rose oil. Which is a costly and involved procedure.
According to the book Herbs, by Lesley Bremness, herbs connect us to past cultures, present needs, and future research on herbs. Some herbs are being investigated for their treatment of cancer and aids. It is refreshing to know that some herbs and herbal concoctions can be created in the home. It is important to note though, that some herbal combinations can be dangerous. It is necessary to be cautious in identifying any herbal remedy to avoid dangerous consequences.
