Preparing DIY Herbal Remedies Safely and Inexpensively (3)

Preparing your own herbal remedies can be a fulfilling experience as it gives you the confidence to create a home apothecary of herbal remedies to use for common ailments.

We continue on home herbal preparations.

Cold Extracts

Cold extracts make use of cold water instead of boiling water. This method is used to avoid losing volatile ingredients in the herbs during the extraction process. Some barks are prepared this way.

Preparation Method
Put double the amount of herbs you would use for a normal infusion and in cold water. Let it steep for about 12 hours.

Compresses

Compresses are basic forms of treatment that involve folding a piece of cloth, small towel or bandage and applying to an area of treatment. They are used to treat skin infections, headaches, chest congestions and swellings. AndCompresses can be cold or hot. You can also use a hot decoction instead of hot water. Essential oils of herbs may also be added.

Soak a cloth in a hot decoction, squeeze most of the liquid out, then apply the compress to the affected area of the body.

Poultices

Poultices have been used for thousands of years to treat boils, abscesses, sprains, chest colds and respiratory infection. They are simply moistened herbs applied externally treat swellings, pains and congestions, sprains, boils, abscesses, colds and other respiratory infections.

Preparation method

Fresh herbs or powdered seeds are mixed with boiling water to make a pulp. The pulp is put  in a piece of cloth (cotton, linen, poplin etc.) and applied to the affected area while hot.

Balms/Salves

Herbal oils form a great basis for salves and balms, or you can use a plain vegetable oil such as jojoba or olive.

Herb Infused Oils

Medicinal Oils can be used alone, or can form the basis of salves and balms.

Preparation Method

Herbal Oils are made by adding oils like shea butter, coconut oil, palm nut oil, olive oil etc to herbs and then heat for about 10 minutes.

Powders

Powders are made by grinding dried herbs. Some herbs have to be burnt or roasted before grinding. The powder can then be taken with water, pap, honey, milk, milk or mixed with oils.

Ointments

Ointments can be prepared by adding oil to a prepared decoction and then simmering on low heat until the water content evaporates.

Essences
Essences are prepared by dissolving 10-20 grams of essential herbal oil in 600ml of alcohol.

Always remember that dosages are important. Start with the lowest possible and evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes, then you can adjust.
Always do a trial run FIRST! Consult your doctor if you have an acute health issue.