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Useful Facts about Herbs
Making Herbal Preparations
Many herbal preparations are easy to make at home. Making your own herbal preparations such as teas, decoctions, oils, salves and extracts can be simple and lots of fun.
Teas (Infusions)
The aerial parts of an herb, such as leaves and flowers and sometimes soft berries and seeds, are used for infusions or teas. The standard proportion is 1 tsp. herb to 1 cup water. Pour the boiling water over the herb, cover, and let stand for 10 to 20 minutes. Most infusions should be used within 8 to 12 hours or can be stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Decoctions
The hard or woody parts of the plant such as the roots, seeds and barks are used for decoctions. The proportions are the same as for an infusion, 1 teaspoon per cup. Place the herb in cold water, bring to a boil, simmer 5 to 20 minutes, remove from heat and strain. Use within 8 to 12 hours or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

 
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