How-To: Decoctions

If you are a budding herbalist looking to improve the effectiveness of your herbal remedies, decoctions can be a very accessible and easy way to accomplish that. A decoction is the process of simmering herbs for longer to extract more of their beneficial compounds. This works best for roots, stems, and tougher or woodier herbs. Think of it like an extra strong herbal tea.

To make one yourself, you will need the following:

• A pot large enough to simmer the desired amount water and plant material
• Water
• Herb(s) of your choice
• Strainer
• Vessel for storing your decoction

Calculations

Start by measuring the amount of herbs and water you will need. A standard serving (or “dose”) will be about 8 fl oz of the infusion consumed 2-3 times a day. Use this to calculate how many servings you need to make. If you are preparing your batch in advance, consider that it will likely keep for about 3 days if refrigerated and sealed, so it is not advised to prepare more than you would need in that time.

To calculate how much of your selected herbs the decoction will require, a good  measurement to start with is 1-half to 1-whole ounce of dried herbs (by weight) to each 32 fl oz of water. Depending on the herbs you are using, you may need to adjust to your needs and preferences (taking notes is helpful!)

Simmering

Fill a pot (preferably one with a lid) with the water and bring it to a simmer. Add your herbs and let it continue to simmer for about 20 minutes. Cover with a lid during this time. You can then turn off the heat and enjoy, or let it sit and steep for some additional time to brew a stronger batch.

You may find that you prefer different timing. Some prefer to let their decoction simmer for an hour or more.

Other Benefits 

Not only will this method get far more out of your tougher herbs, this can be used to help you be more consistent in taking herbs that you wish to consume more regularly. It allows you to prepare some batches for the next couple of days for your convenience!

Take Notes

Decoctions do not always work the best with every herb or for every person, so it is important to take notes on your process and document your results. Be sure to log the measurements you used, the time it brewed, and the effects it had. As always, be sure to double check that any herbs you use are safe with any medications that are taken or preexisting conditions that you or the person you are caring for have. 

Happy brewing!