The use of herbs is growing in popularity more so every day. People are finding benefit for minor ailments like a cold, upset stomach, itchy skin, rashes and diarrhea. When learning about herbs and their uses, it is helpful to learn some of the terms associated with them. I have some brief terms with descriptions listed below...

INFUSION: this is a fancy name for tea. This one of the most popular ways to consume an herb is by making a tea out of it. An infusion or tea can be made and then used as a hair rinse or a wound wash. You also have a single strength infusion where a "regular" tea is made. A double strength infusion is when you use twice as much herb as the single infusion.

DECOCTIONS: this means boiling or simmering herbs. You usually use this when you have roots, barks, and seeds. It takes about 15-20 minutes of simmering to get the benefit from these woody parts.

TINCTURES: This term generaly refers to a herbal solution in alcohol. The advantage of tinctures is that is has a much longer shelf life. Alcohol is also able to pull the healing elements from the herbal plant parts.

COMPRESSES: consists of any clean cloth or absorbant cotton soaked in a hot infusion and applied to the skin

POULTICES: consists of a paste made by mixing the herbs with water: this is placed between layers of thin cloth and then applied to the affected area.

BATH TEA: this is usually a combination of herbs that are put in a great big teabag and then thrown in a hot tub of water. Many herbs have relaxing and healing benefits and are used in this way.

ESSENTIAL OILS: this referrs to the volatile compounds that occurs naturally in plants. These oils are extracted by distilling the plant. These essential oils are very strong and can be toxic. Care must be taken when using essential oils.

HERBAL EXTRACTS: this is an herb that has soaked in alcohol for several weeks. This process pulls the medicinal properties out of the herb and puts it into the solution.

I hope this helps some on your herbal journey! Blessings!

Lucinda Jenkins

Glenbrook Farms Herbs and Such
Herbs, Spices, Goumet Teas, Green Teas, Herbal Teas,Herb Capsules, Herbs in sold in ONE ounce increments!! Herbal Soaps,Glycerin Soaps, Weekly Specials, Teabags and strainers, Coffee grinders ,Gift Baskets

About the Author: Lucinda Jenkins is a retired nurse after 25 years of service and is now the herbal consultant and owner of Glenbrook Farms Herbs and Such. She also produces and host the radio show "Healthy Alternatives" throught Independent News Services which airs every Tuesday. She is the mother of two daughter and lives in Live Oak Fl. with her family.

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