Herbal Decoctions

Herbal Decoctions - WHAT ARE THEY?!

Usually, when preparing herbal beverages we will use either the infusion method or the decoction method. Infusions are typically best for the lighter, more gentle parts of the plants. 

You can read more about herbal infusions by visiting this article here. 

Decoctions are more helpful in extracting the medicine out of the heavier, more dense parts of plants, such as bark and roots. These plant parts often need more heat, pressure, and time to break through the cell walls. 

I like to think of decoctions as “Herbal Soups” - because that’s basically what they are! 

To make an herbal decoction, you can use a pot of any size (preferably on the medium to larger size) on the stove, or you can use a crock pot! 

Here is how: 

• A pot on the stove: I like to use a pot on the stove when I am making only a couple of cups at a time or if I suddenly get the urge for one of my root brews. Fill the pot with water and then add the herbs you’re working with to the water BEFORE turning on the heat. Once the herbs and water are in the pot, turn the heat on high and wait for the water to begin boiling. Once the water is at a rolling boil, turn the heat on low and allow the brew to simmer for anywhere from 20 minutes to a couple of hours. (It depends on what herbs you are working with - for example, mushrooms such as reishi mushroom need to simmer for at least 2 hours for the best extraction, however many herbs will suffice with 20-45 minutes) 

I like to keep a wooden spoon on hand because I seem to always make a mess when brewing my decoctions and the wooden spoon helps to calm the water when it is beginning to flow over. I just place the spoon across the top of the pot - and I also accept that I am going to make a mess hahaha. 

• Crockpot: I have found that using the crock pot comes in handy when you need to make larger batches of brew at a time - whether you are preparing for many people or you are preparing and storing for easy access. It’s really quite simple! Add the herbs and water into the crock pot, cover with the lid, and allow to cook on low overnight! I will usually use 1-2 ounces of herbs per quart - but I hardly ever use measurements for my personal brews! If you’d like the brew to cook in less time, set the heat to medium or high and keep an eye on it for a few hours. 

That’s it! I always encourage people to JUST DO IT! Try your best to not overthink the process. There is no right or wrong way - it takes practice and patience and you will get the feel for how you like to prepare YOUR medicine! 

One of my favorite recipes for my herbal soups are: (Keep in mind that I measure with my heart)

• Astragalus root

• Elderberry

• Codonopsis

• Solomons seal

• Albizia bark

• Hawthorn berry

• Ginger

• A dash of licorice 

This blend lifts my energy, supports and strengthens my organs and immune system, and helps me to keep my bones, muscles, and tendons strong! 

In the comments below, share some of your favorite recipes or methods of brewing herbs! Also, if you have any questions you can comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can! 

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