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| tea that you hope will bring fast relief. Another powerful catalyst herb is horseradish, which has cleared plenty of sinuses, as has another warming herb, mustard. |
| The most widely used stimulant herb in America is caffeine, and while it is not usually recommended by herbalists, caffeine does increase circulation and speed the distribution of chemicals through the body. Cayenne pepper, ginger and lobelia are less dramatic in action and can be used in any combination of herbs at any time of the day or night. |
| Herbal Preparations. |
| There are many ways to take herbs: in teas, capsules, tablets, syrups, lozenges and tinctures, not to mention all their external applications, like compresses, poultices, washes and steam inhalations. |
| For best results, use herbs that were grown organically or wildcrafted, then dried at low temperature to maintain their flavor, color, essential oils and other properties. See the appendix for a list of herbal tea companies that specialize in high quality medicinal herbs. |
| If you are new to herbal medicine, remember that the recipes given here and in herbal reference books are flexible and forgiving. If you can't obtain an ingredient, find an appropriate substitute. Quantities are flexible, too. As you gain experience, you will be able to develop your own recipes. As you do so, be sure to refer to two or three different herbal references for information about each plant so that you have a clear understanding of its benefits, potential side effects and special requirements. |
| Teas. |
| To brew a tea of fresh or dried leaves or blossoms, use 1 to 2 teaspoons dry herb or 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh herb per cup of water. Bring the water to a boil, pour it over the herbs, cover the teapot or container with a lid and let it stand undisturbed for 10 minutes. This type of tea is called an infusion. Some plants are so delicate that herbalists recommend using cold instead of hot water, a brewing process that requires several hours. |
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