How to Use Herbs for Health and Healing
How Herbs Work
Herbs regulate, cleanse, and
nourish the human body.
They may have specific effects on physical function, but herbs
also nourish and balance many parts of the body at one time.
Why Use Herbs
Because they balance the body,
herbs treat the cause of disease, not just the
symptoms. When used with knowledge, herbs are far safer than most
pharmaceutical drugs.
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Infusions
are teas made from aromatic herbs. Use fresh or dried herbs or
tea bags. Add one tea bag (or one teaspoon dry herb) to a
small tea pot. Pour boiling water over the herbs. Allow to
steep for 5-10 minutes. Drink. |
Decoctions
are teas made from woody plant parts such as barks and roots.
Bring water to a boil. Add herbs, turn off heat, cover and
allow to steep for 15 minutes. Do NOT boil herbs. Cool and
drink. |
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Tinctures
are alcohol or vinegar extractions of herbs. They are more
concentrated than teas and capsules (unless standardized)
depending on their method of preparation. They can be taken
alone, or added to teas, or used in poultices. |
Capsules/Tablets
consist of dried herb material. They may consist of the
unadulterated herbs OR they may be standardized according to
the concentration of a particular ingredient. These herbs are
to be taken internally. |
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Poultices
are external applications of fresh or dried (powered) herbs,
made into a paste and applied on a piece of gauze directly to
the skin. (Herbs in tea bags can be moistened and used as
small poultices). Used to treat the skin and eyes. |
Essential Oils
are highly concentrated extracts of aromatic plant oils.
They are extremely potent. They can be used on the skin
(diluted in a “fixed” oil), the scents inhaled
(“aromatherapy”), in baths, poultices, and vaporizers. |
General guidelines for dosing herbs
(adults):
Teas:
1 tea bag or 1 teaspoon herb per cup water. 1-3 cups per day.
Tinctures:
30-40 drops, 2-4 times per day, taken in water.
Caps:
1-2 caps, 2-4 times per day.
Children’s
dosages: (also use for frail seniors)
Child’s weight in pounds
÷
150 pounds = fraction of adult dose
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