Internal Herbal Remedies
1.Alcohol Herbal Tincture:
An alcohol herb tincture is a concentrated herbal extract made using alcohol as the solvent. The alcohol extracts the active phytochemical from the herbs, resulting in a potent liquid. Not all herbal phytochemicals are soluble with alcohol.
We use weight-to-volume ratios for tinctures because herbs can be light and fluffy, but we still want to make sure every batch is just as strong as the last one. Measuring the herbs by weight and the alcohol by volume helps us stay precise, so each tincture works as it’s supposed to.
Steps for a 1:4 ratio:
1. Fill a jar 1 part herb by weight (ex: 1 ounce of dried herb)
2. 4 parts alcohol by volume (ex: 4 fluid ounces of alcohol)
3. Pour liquid over the herbs until they are completely covered.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.
6. Bottle the liquid and label it with the herb name and date.
When to Consume: Best used when you need a quick, potent effect or if you’re treating a condition that requires the bioactive compounds of the herbs to be highly concentrated. Ideal for acute conditions or when ease and speed of use are important.
2. Glycerine Herbal Tincture:
A glycerine herbal tincture, also known as a glycerite, is a non-alcoholic herbal extract, using glycerine as the solvent. It’s a sweet and viscous liquid ideal for children or those avoiding alcohol.
Follow same steps as alcohol tincture, dilution with water is recommended
When to Consume: Suitable for children, those avoiding alcohol, or anyone with a sensitive palate who still requires the potent effects of a tincture. Can be taken when you need a sweet, palatable form of a potent herbal remedy.
3. Oxymel:
Oxymel is an ancient remedy combining vinegar, honey, and herbs, used for its healing properties.
Steps:
1. Fill jar 1/2 way with herbs
2. Mix 1/2 part honey 1/2 part apple cider vinegar
3. Add honey vinegar blend to herbs.
4. Seal the jar and let it sit for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the mixture, bottle, and label.
When to Consume: Ideal for respiratory conditions, coughs, or sore throats due to its soothing properties. Also beneficial for digestive health. Consume during cold and flu season for immune support or when you need a pleasant-tasting remedy.
4. Herbal Tea:
Herbal tea involves steeping herbs in hot water to extract their flavors and medicinal properties.
Steps:
1. Boil water let it sit for 3-5 min and pour it over a teaspoon of dried herbs per cup of water.
2. Cover and steep for 5-10 minutes.
3. Strain and enjoy.
When to Consume: Perfect for daily wellness, hydration, stress relief, or mild digestive issues. Drink herbal teas when you need relaxation, a gentle detox, or to support general health. Specific teas can be consumed for specific conditions based on the herb used.
5. Spagyric:
Spagyrics are herbal or metal preparations made using alchemical procedures, intended to extract the full spectrum of plant or mineral constituents and energetic properties.
Steps
(Note: This is a simplified description; actual processes can be complex and require care and attention to detail.)
Extract the essence: Macerate dried plant material in high-proof alcohol ( 1 oz herb to 4 fl oz alcohol) for 2–4 weeks to extract its healing properties (the "soul").
Burn the body: After straining, dry the leftover plant material and calcine it (burn to ash) to access the plant’s mineral salts (the "body").
Purify and reunite: Dissolve the ash in water, filter, then evaporate the liquid to retrieve purified salts. Add these salts back into the tincture to complete the medicine.
Let it mature: Allow the final preparation to rest for several days to a few weeks for integration and enhanced potency.
When to Consume
Spagyric tinctures are potent, alchemically prepared remedies. They are best used with intention and, when possible, with the guidance of someone experienced in alchemical or energetic herbalism. Ideal for deep healing, spiritual alignment, or long-term support.
6. Herbal Syrup:
Herbal syrups are concentrated liquids made from herbal teas or infusions sweetened with sugar or honey.
Steps:
1. Prepare a strong herbal tea or decoction.
2. Strain the herbs and add sugar or honey to the liquid at a ratio of 1:1.
3. Heat gently on low until the sweetener is completely dissolved.
4. Bottle, cool, and label.
When to Consume: Excellent for soothing coughs, sore throats, or cold symptoms due to its coating and soothing properties. Consume as needed, particularly in colder months or during illness.
7. Herb Infused Honey:
This involves infusing honey with the flavors and properties of herbs.
Steps:
1. Fill a jar halfway with dried herbs.
2. Pour raw honey over the herbs until the jar is nearly full.
3. Stir, seal, and let sit for 1-4 weeks, turning upside down occasionally.
4. Strain and bottle.
When to Consume: Ideal for sweetening teas or for soothing sore throats. Consume when you need a pleasant, immune-boosting remedy, especially during cold and flu season.
8. Herbal Vinegar:
Herbal vinegars are made by infusing vinegar with herbs, used for culinary or medicinal purposes.
Steps:
1. Fill a jar 1/2 way with fresh or dried herbs.
2. Cover with apple cider vinegar, ensuring herbs are completely submerged.
3. Seal the jar and store in a cool, dark place for 3-6 weeks, shaking periodically.
4. Strain, bottle, and label.
When to Consume: Great for digestive health and to improve metabolism. Consume before meals as a digestive aid or incorporate into your diet as a healthful condiment.
9. Flower Essences:
Flower essences are diluted extracts of flowers used to address emotional and mental aspects of wellness.
Steps:
1. Fill a bowl with fresh, pristine flowers.
2. Cover with spring water and leave in sunlight for several hours.
3. Strain the water into a bottle and preserve with brandy.
4. Dilute this “mother essence” into dosage bottles for use.
When to Consume: Use when addressing emotional, mental, or spiritual issues. Consume regularly when dealing with stress, anxiety, or emotional imbalances.
10. Decoction:
A decoction is a method of extraction by boiling herbal or plant material to dissolve the chemicals of the material.
Steps:
1. Add one part dried herb to ten parts water.
2. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15-30 minutes.
3. Strain and serve or store.
When to Consume: Best for harder plant materials like roots, bark, and seeds or when a stronger dose than tea is required. Consume for specific health issues as recommended, especially for digestive and respiratory conditions.
11. Infusions (Hot & Cold):
Hot infusions involve pouring boiling water over herbs and letting them steep, while cold infusions involve soaking herbs in cold water for a longer period.
Hot Infusion Steps:
1. Pour boiling water over the herb.
2. Cover and steep for 15-20 minutes.
3. Strain and drink.
Hot Infusions: Drink when you need immediate comfort or relief, such as with colds, flu, or digestion issues. Also beneficial for relaxation and sleep.
Cold Infusion Steps:
1. Place herbs in cold water in a jar.
2. Seal and leave for 6-12 hours.
3. Strain and drink.
Cold Infusions: Consume during warmer weather or for long-term hydration. Ideal for gentle detoxification, mucilaginous herbs and when you prefer a cold drink.
Each of these remedies can be tailored to specific needs and conditions, so consider the herb’s properties and your health goals when choosing which to consume and when. Always consult an herbalist, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.
1. Herbal Body Scrub:
A scrub made from herbs, oils, and a granular substance like sugar or salt to exfoliate and nourish the skin.
How to Make:
1. Mix 1 cup granulated sugar or sea salt with ¼ cup carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil).
2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried, ground herbs (such as lavender or chamomile) and a few drops of essential oil.
3. Store in an airtight container.
When to Use: Use to exfoliate, stimulate circulation, and moisturize the skin. Ideal for use in the shower 1-2 times a week.
2. Herbal Body Oil:
Oil infused with herbs, used for massage or moisturizing the skin.
How to Make:
1. Fill a jar with dried herbs of your choice.
2. Cover with a carrier oil like olive or almond oil.
3. Seal and place in away from the light for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
4. Strain with a cheese cloth and store in a clean bottle.
When to Use: Use for daily skin moisturizing, relaxation, and massage. Can be applied after a shower or bath.
3. Herbal Salve:
A thick, protective ointment made from infused oils and beeswax to treat various skin conditions.
How to Make:
1. Prepare an herbal infused oil (as described above).
2. Gently heat 1 cup of the infused oil with ¼ cup beeswax until melted.
3. Pour into containers and let cool.
When to Use: Apply to dry, irritated skin, cuts, bruises, or insect bites. Use as needed for skin protection and healing.
4. Herbal Poultice:
A soft, moist mass of herbs applied to the body to relieve soreness and inflammation.
How to Make:
1. Crush fresh herbs or rehydrate dried herbs with hot water or oil.
2. Wrap the herb mixture in a clean cloth.
3. Apply to the affected area while still warm.
When to Use: Use for localized pain, inflammation, or skin issues. Replace every 3-4 hours or as needed.
5. Herbal Honey Face Mask:
A facial treatment made from herbs and honey to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.
How to Make:
1. Mix 2 tablespoons raw honey with 1 teaspoon of powdered herbs (such as turmeric or rose).
2. Apply to the face, avoiding the eye area.
3. Leave on for 15-20 minutes then rinse off.
When to Use: Use once a week for deep cleansing, moisturizing, and soothing the skin.
6. Herbal Mouthwash:
A mouth rinse made from herbal infusions to freshen breath and promote oral health.
How to Make:
1. Steep 2 tablespoons of antibacterial and refreshing herbs (like mint, sage, or clove) in one cup of warm water.
2. Strain and cool.
3. Use to rinse the mouth 1-2 times daily.
When to Use: Use daily for oral hygiene and fresh breath after brushing your teeth. You can also infuse these herbs into coconut oil and use as an oil pulling rinse.
7. Essential Oils:
Highly concentrated oils extracted from plants, used for aromatherapy and topical applications.
How to Make: Typically, essential oils are produced through steam distillation, a process best left to professionals due to its complexity and supplies needed.
When to Use: Use for aromatherapy, in diffusers, diluted in carrier oils for topical application, or added to baths. Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin.
8. Tooth Powders:
A powdered form of toothpaste made from natural ingredients.
How to Make:
1. Mix equal parts of baking soda and fine sea salt.
2. Add powdered herbs like mint or myrrh for flavor and additional benefits.
3. Store in an airtight container.
When to Use: Use in place of toothpaste for brushing teeth. Wet your toothbrush, dip it in the powder, and brush as usual.
9. Herbal Body Butter:
A rich, creamy lotion made from oils and butters infused with herbs for moisturizing the skin.
How to Make:
1. Gently melt equal parts shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil.
2. Stir in dried, powdered herbs.
3. Cool until partially solidified, then whip until creamy.
4. Store in an airtight container.
When to Use: Use for deep moisturizing, especially in dry weather or for dry skin types. Apply after bathing or showering.
10. Herbal Liniments:
A liquid herbal extract used topically to relieve pain and inflammation.
How to Make:
1. Fill a jar with dried herbs known for their pain-relieving properties (like arnica or St. John’s wort).
2. Cover with rubbing alcohol or witch hazel.
3. Seal and let sit for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
4. Strain and apply topically to affected areas.
When to Use: Apply to sore muscles, bruises, or areas with arthritis. Do not apply to broken skin.
11. Herbal Compress:
Cloth soaked in herbal infusions or decoctions applied to the skin to relieve various conditions.
How to Make:
1. Soak a clean cloth in a hot herbal infusion or decoction.
2. Wring out the excess liquid.
3. Apply the cloth to the affected area until it cools. Repeat as needed.
When to Use: Use for inflammation, pain, or skin conditions. The temperature and herb used can be adjusted based on the condition being treated.
Each remedy can be tailored with specific herbs suited to your particular needs. Always patch test for allergic reactions when using topical applications and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying conditions or concerns.