Infusion
- Preparation method
- 2 steps
- 26 herbs prepared this way
An infusion is the simplest way to prepare the more delicate aerial parts of plants, especially leaves and flowers, for use as a medicine or as a revitalizing or relaxing drink. It is made in a similar way to tea, using either a single herb or a combination of herbs, and may be drunk hot or cold.
Quantity
CUP 1 tsp (2-3 g) dried or 2 tsp (4-6 g) fresh herb (or mixture of herbs) to a cup of water (this makes 1 dose)
Steps
- Place the herb in the strainer of the teacup and place a strainer in the cup. Fill the cup with freshly boiled water.
- Cover the cup with the lid and infuse for 5-10 minutes before removing the tea strainer. Add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten, if desired.
Traditional amounts
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
Take 3-4 doses (2 cups/500 ml) each day.
Storage
Store in a covered jug in a refrigerator or cool place for up to 24 hours.
Put it to use
Herbs traditionally prepared this way
12 of 26 herbs whose traditional preparation text names this method.
Agrimony (agrimonia eupatoria)- Cardamom (Eletteria cardamomum)
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Damiana (Turnera diffusa)
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)- Pipsissewa (Chimaphila umbellata)
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)
Spikenard (Aralia racemosa)
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Keep exploring
Related methods
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