How to Make an Herbal Infusion
Herbal Infusions are quite common and simple to make at home. They are basically the same thing as making tea. The enjoyment of herbal infusions (or teas) has been mentioned in documents dating as far back as the Ancient Chinese and Egyptian cultures. Teas are still commonly enjoyed in many cultures around the world today.
Infusions are commonly used for leaves and flowers, the more delicate parts of the herb, as they don’t require as much effort to release their beneficial properties.
Items Needed:
– 1 oz (30 g) dried herb or 2.5 oz (75 g) fresh herb
– 2 cups (500 ml) water
General Suggested Use:
Drink 1/2 cup 3 times daily.
Measurements:
Makes approximately 1.5 cups.
Instructions:
Place your herbs into a pot with a close-fitting lid, like a teapot.
Boil your water in a separate container, taking it off the heat once it boils. Wait for a moment or two and then pour the hot water over your herbs. (Electric teapots work wonderfully for this).
Let them steep (infuse) for 10-15 minutes and then pour through a strainer into your teacup and drink. Remember, the longer they steep (or infuse), the stronger the tea will be.
Infusions can be stored in a pitcher or other container in a cool place. Some like to add a couple of drops of HCL (Hydrochloric Acid) prior to drinking if their herbal infusion has been sitting out in an open container for a few hours.
Alternatively, you can use a tea bag, tea ball, infuser or strainer in your cup, pour the hot water into your cup and after 10 minutes pull the tea out. (You can tie the herbs into a small coffee filter to make a home-made tea bag).
Try using bitter herbs in the morning to help get the digestive juices flowing (your liver will appreciate it even if your palate doesn’t).
Ginger, fennel and other digestive aids make a wonderful “post large meal” tea to help alleviate the discomfort that often accompanies large meals.
Use calming herbs with mild sedative properties in the evening to aid in “winding down” from your day and gently moving your body towards relaxation and sleep. Chamomile is very popular for relaxation in both aroma, flavor and having mild sedative properties.
TIP: Vigorously boiling water can disperse the volatile oils in the steam. This is why we suggest waiting for a moment or two before pouring the boiling water over your herbs.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not to be considered complete nor is it guaranteed to be accurate. The FDA has not given approval of this information. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or other complication. Always check with your health care provider and/or pharmacist before using herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a health condition, or are taking any prescription medication.