Herbal Preparations:
- Maceration: Maceration is a method of making extractions. It involves soaking herbs or plant matter in a menstruum (solvent) for a period of time that varies based on the ingredients. Maceration allows the menstruum to soak up the herb’s constituents. The process is complete when the liquid inside the herb is the same strength as the liquid outside. This method is used to extract essential compounds from the plant material gently.
- Percolation: Percolation is a method of extraction that involves filtering a menstruum through finely powdered, dried herbs packed into a cone-shaped percolator. The herb is traditionally moistened with a small amount of menstruum for 12 to 24 hours to allow for in-cone maceration and expansion. Afterward, the remaining menstruum is poured over the herbs, and the liquid extract slowly drips out as gravity pulls the menstruum down through the herb. This method is used for a faster and often more efficient extraction compared to maceration.
- Decoction: A decoction is a water extraction that uses a continuous heat supply, usually a simmer of 10 to 60 minutes. This technique is typically used for denser herb parts such as roots, bark, seeds, berries, and mushrooms. Decoctions extract more robust compounds from the plant material and are used when a stronger herbal preparation is required.
- Infusion: An infusion is a tea made by pouring water over plant material and allowing it to steep for 3 to 20 minutes. Infusions usually involve more delicate parts of the plant, such as dried flowers, fruit, leaves, or other parts, though fresh plant material may also be used. The water is usually freshly boiled, but cold infusions can also be made. Infusions are considered one of the oldest and simplest preparations used in herbalism and are ideal for extracting vitamins, minerals, and volatile compounds.
- Marc: Marc is what’s left over after maceration and extraction into a menstruum. For example, marc could be the herbs in a soaked tea bag or those used to make a tincture or elixir after they have been pressed and separated from the liquid extract. Marc is typically discarded or composted, though it can sometimes be used in secondary extracts.
- Tincture: Tinctures start with dried or fresh herbs infused in a menstruum that is alcohol-based. Water or a small amount of glycerin may be included in the menstruum. Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that are easy to dose and have a long shelf life. They are used for their potency and ease of absorption into the bloodstream.
- Glycerite: Glycerites start with dried or fresh herbs infused in a menstruum that is glycerin-based. Water may be included in the menstruum. A glycerite can also be referred to as an “alcohol-free extract.” They are ideal for children, those sensitive to alcohol, or when a sweeter flavor is preferred.
- Oxymel: Oxymels are a subcategory of mels. The name comes from oxymeli in Latin, meaning acid and honey. Equal parts vinegar and honey, and sometimes water, are infused with dried or fresh herbs, macerated, then strained. They are the herbal version of a shrub, a vinegar-based drink generally made from fruit. Oxymels are used as health tonics and in culinary applications.
- Poultice: Herbal powders can be moistened slightly with warm water to create a paste called a poultice, which is then applied topically. Poultices can also be made with fresh herb material that is blended with a small amount of water. Poultices are used to soothe inflammation, draw out infections, and heal wounds. They are often applied directly to the skin to provide localized relief from various ailments.
- Salve: Salves are semi-solid preparations made by combining herbal oils or extracts with beeswax or another solidifying agent. They are used topically to heal, soothe, or protect the skin. Salves are commonly used for cuts, burns, rashes, and other skin conditions. The consistency of a salve is thicker than a lotion but softer than a balm, making it easy to apply.
- Syrup: Syrups are made by combining herbal tea with a sweetener, typically sugar or honey, in a ratio that can range from equal parts to 1:2 (tea to sweetener). Syrups are often used for their soothing properties and to make herbal remedies more palatable, especially for children. They are commonly used to treat coughs, sore throats, and digestive issues. The sweetener not only improves the taste but also acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the preparation.