When creating herbal remedies that involves tough plant parts like roots, bark, and berries, the decoction method is needed to aggressively extract all of the ingredients needed to receive natural benefits. Heating the plant material and cold water, bringing it to a boil, and then letting it simmer for about 20 to 40 minutes is the usually way to generate a decoction. This article will explain the process in more detail.
After deciding to create a decoction, you may choose from an array of herb selections to make some of the most fascinating combinations. Others will select just one type of herb to work with. When making the standard quantity, decoctions can be drunk while cold or hot. Usually, one recipe is enough to make three doses and it is important to take decoctions that are freshly brewed.
The part used in the process of making a decoction is pieces of bark, berries, as well as fresh or dried roots. The standard quantity associated with a decoction is to add 30 grams of dried or 60 grams of fresh herb to 750 ml of cold water. After the decoction has entered the simmering process, the results will measure around 500 ml of liquid. When using a combination of herbs, it is suggested to accurately measure out the total weight of herbs so that the mixture does not exceed the recommended standard amount.
When taking a decoction, there are also standard doses to follow. It is suggested to take a teacup full of a decoction for three times per day. When taking repeated doses, the decoction should be heated. Sometimes, (depending on the herbs used) a little sweetener is needed to make a decoction easier to stomach. Some individuals like to add a little unrefined sugar or honey, while others add lemon juice as flavoring. When serving a decoction to a child or the elderly, the amount given should be reduced.
Leftover decoction should be stored in a covered jug and taken to a cool place. They also keep well I n the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. For the best results, people usually make new decoctions at the start of each day and toss out any remaining amounts that have not been used.
Directions
The equipment involved in making a decoction includes a saucepan (ceramic, enamel, or stainless steel), nylon or plastic sieve, and a jug with a lid for storage. It is important no to use an aluminum saucepan to follow the directions. For starters, you should place the herb or herbs in a saucepan and pour over the cold water. Next, the mixture should be brought to a boil and simmered for about 20 to 40 minutes until the total volume has reached 1/3 of its original size. The decoction should be taken off of the heat and strained through a nylon or plastic sieve into a jug. The decoction should be poured into a covered jug and stored in a cool place or a refrigerator.