Learning Herbal Preparations

This blog series is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any herbal regimen.

Now that you have a toolkit, it’s time to explore different herbal preparations. Understanding these methods will help you maximize the benefits of herbs.

Common Herbal Preparations:

• Teas (Infusions & Decoctions): Best for leaves, flowers, and roots.

• Tinctures: Alcohol-based extracts that preserve herbs for long-term use.

• Salves & Balms: Herbal-infused oils blended with beeswax for topical healing.

• Capsules & Powders: Convenient options for daily supplementation.

• Syrups: Herbal extracts combined with honey for taste and preservation.

Mastering these methods will enhance your ability to tailor herbs to your needs. Here are a few basic recipes to get you started.  I’ve also included a printable recipe card file for you!

Verdigris Get Started Recipe Cards.pdf

Download PDF • 748KB

🌿 1. Herbal Tea (Infusion & Decoction) — Soothing Sleep Tea

Purpose: Helps promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Ingredients (Infusion):

• 1 tsp dried chamomile

• 1 tsp dried lemon balm

• ½ tsp dried lavender

Instructions:

1. Place herbs in a tea infuser or directly in a cup.

2. Pour 1 cup boiling water over them.

3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.

4. Strain (if loose) and enjoy 30 minutes before bed.

Optional (Decoction for roots):

• Use valerian root or licorice root (½ tsp per cup).

• Simmer covered in water for 15–20 minutes before straining.

🌿 2. Tincture — Immune Support Tincture

Purpose: Supports the immune system during cold and flu season.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup dried echinacea root

• ½ cup dried elderberries

• 1 pint (16 oz) 80–100 proof vodka (or glycerin for alcohol-free)

Instructions:

1. Place herbs in a clean glass jar.

2. Cover with vodka, making sure all herbs are submerged.

3. Label the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks. Shake daily.

4. Strain and store in a dark glass dropper bottle.

5. Use 1–2 dropperfuls as needed at first sign of illness.

🌿 3. Salve/Balm — All-Purpose Healing Salve

Purpose: For minor cuts, scrapes, dry skin, and irritation.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup infused oil (see below) with calendula, comfrey, or plantain

• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets

• Optional: a few drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Gently warm the infused oil in a double boiler.

2. Add beeswax and stir until melted.

3. Remove from heat and add essential oil (if using).

4. Pour into small tins or jars. Let cool before sealing.

🌿 4. Capsules & Powders — Digestive Support Blend

Purpose: Aids digestion and reduces bloating.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp dried ginger root powder

• 2 tbsp dried peppermint leaf powder

• 2 tbsp dried fennel seed powder

• Empty veggie capsules (size 00)

Instructions:

1. Mix all powders in a clean bowl.

2. Use a capsule machine or fill capsules by hand.

3. Store in a dark jar.

4. Take 1–2 capsules after meals as needed.

Discover Everyday Herbal: Solutions for Natural Living by Kenneth Wright—a practical, insightful guide to incorporating herbs into your daily life for greater health and harmony. Whether you're just beginning or deepening your natural living journey, this book offers approachable remedies and time-tested wisdom. Available now at verdigrismarketgarden.com and on Amazon

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