~Herbal medicine- getting started~
There are 5 basic ways to make and use herbal medicines. In these examples, I will use mullein and plantain. Both are readily available, easy to identify, likely growing in or near your yard, and have no known drug/disease interactions. Meaning they are generally safe.
*Tinctures*
Tinctures are easy to make, a great way to pack a punch, and easy to take. I will use mullein for this example, but any tincture worthy plant can be used in its place.
What is it? A tincture is an extract made from herbs that is taken orally. There are other means of making one, but alcohol is the one discussed here as it is most widely used. It is generally administered under the tongue which makes it quick acting.
To make: chop up mullein leaves finely. Smaller cuts means more surface area is accessed. Place chopped leaves into a jar filling it roughly 3/4 of the way. Fill jar with alcohol. A minimum of 80 proof is required, vodka is most widely used and recommended. The alcohol will draw out the compounds in the plant and they will remain in the alcohol. Allow to sit for 6 weeks and strain. The remaining alcohol is the tincture.
To use: Depending on the plant, your dosage may change. Generally speaking and for mullein tincture, a dose is 5-10 drops (using an eye dropper) administered directly under the tongue. It can be diluted in juice or water if needed, but will not act as quickly.
What mullein tincture is used for: It is an AMAZING plant for coughs and stuffy noses. It also helps with Colds, Flu, Asthma, Diarrhea, Migraines, Gout, Tuberculosis, Croup, Cough, Sore throat, Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis).
Stuck in the city
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