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A Quick Guide to Herbal Terminology

Infusions
Infusions are the simplest way to access the active principles of herbs. Infusions are made the way we make tea using the dried and/or powdered parts of the herb or plant. If you can find an infusion ball all the better simple add the dried herb to the ball and pour over boiling water.

Leave for 5 to 10 minutes then remove the ball and drink the liquid or add to the skin if you have been prescribed this method. In some cases it is best to leave the infusion much longer, for example, camomile flower heads make an excellent painkiller when applied to the skin. They work really well for sties and other eye problems as well. Simply infuse the camomile heads (make sure they are organic) in boiling water, leave over night, strain and then use the liquid. Soak the liquid in a cotton wool pad and apply to the affected area for about 20 minutes, do this repeatedly throughout the day.

Decoctions
Roots, fruits and bark need to simmer in order to extract their medicinal qualities. Cut or tear the roots and bark in to smaller pieces and place in a pan (make sure you use a lid) of simmering water. After about 20 minutes, cool and strain. The decoction can then be drunk or applied to skin depending on the plant and treatment required.

Tinctures
This means immersing a dried or fresh herb/plant in alcohol so the active principles can be extracted at high concentrations. The best alcohol to use is ethyl alcohol, distilled from cereals, however this is hard to obtain and a 45% proof pure vodka will do the trick. Never use methyl alcohol, isopropyl or methylated spirits, and always consult a qualified practitioner beforehand.

Simply immerse a balance mix of herbs to alcohol and leave in a tightly closed jar until you need it. Then apply at the prescribed dosage.

Infused Oils
Pure oils like olive, sunflower and almond readily dissolve the active principles in plants and herbs. This is also called an infusion. Simply mix the herbs with the oil. Warning – exercise great caution whan taking preparing infused oils especially when they are to be taken internally, and do not use essential oils in this cavalier manner.

Essential Oils
Essential oils are the volatile oily components of herbs and plants and can be extracted by distillation, steam and enffleurage. In all cases follow instructions very carefully.

Always consult a qualified herbalist and/or health practitioner before using herbs and plants!

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Author: Davinos Greeno