I will begin with forms of use for medicinal purposes. The herbs used for these methods of preparation are generally dried (de-hydrated) and can be either store bought, or some you have grown/collected yourself and dried. Many of the herbs described in these articles will have both medicinal and magickal healing properties, so cross-reference when needed. Please remember that herbal therapies, or any form of alternative therapies, should not be undertaken without the advice of a competent physician.
* Tisane (Tea) : A teaspoon or slightly more of herb matter per eight ounces of boiled water. The water is poured over the herb in a cup or tea pot, and steeped for several minutes. After about fifteen minutes or so, many herbs will become bitter, so I suggest five to ten minutes. Can be used as a wash, or consumed as a hot or cold drink. Sweeten with honey if necessary.
* Infusions : Approximately two pints of water poured over an ounce of herb matter, and steeped for up to eight hours. These can be used in bath water, as skin washes, or when blended evenly with more hot water, consumed as tea.
* Decoctions : Seeds, roots, rhizomes and denser barks are used in decoctions. There are prepared by directly boiling up to one ounce of the plant material in the water, and then simmering for a period of time. Used much the same as infusions.
* Tinctures : One part herb matter to four parts either 60 proof alcohol or apple cider vinegar. Let sit for four to six weeks, shake occaisionally. Strain, and store in dark glass bottles. Use by droppers in water. Tinctures will keep almost indefinitely if stored properly.
* Capsules : If an herb has too strong a taste to be consumed as a liquid, or eaten, you can powder the dried herb, and make capsules. Many health food stores and pharmacies carry size 00 gel capsules for this purpose. Make sure to wipe each after filling. Store in a dark container.
* Salves : Add the herb material to a beeswax base.
* Compress : Wet cloth soaked in a tisane and applied to the skin.
* Poultice : Herb material (previously steeped or at least moistened) wrapped in a cloth and applied to the skin.
Some of the medical terminology applied to medicinal usage of herbs can be confusing in itself. A few of the terms have been briefed here.
* Alterative : Any herb that alters a state of health, either one way or another.
