The Use of Herbs as Medicine

 

The Use of Herbs as Medicine

Herbal medicine, a practice rooted in ancient traditions, continues to be a vital part of healthcare today. The utilization of medicinal herbs varies significantly, offering numerous methods to harness their therapeutic properties. This article explores the diverse ways in which medicinal herbs can be employed for health and healing.

Hot Water Infusion (Infus)

Preparation and Benefits

The most common method for making herbal tea, hot water infusion, is used primarily for leaves and flowers. Herbs with essential oils, such as caraway seeds, should be crushed first and steeped under a lid to prevent the oils from evaporating. Typically, 1-2 teaspoons (or one tablespoon) of dried herbs are used per large cup of boiling water. Fresh herbs can be used in larger quantities. The mixture should steep under a lid for 5-10 minutes before straining. To sweeten with honey, ensure the temperature is no higher than 45°C to preserve the beneficial enzymes. Note that honey should not be given to children under one year old. Infusions can be consumed hot or cold, though cooled tea cannot be stored for long as it may mold or ferment. Hot tea can be kept for a few hours in a thermos.

Decoction (Decokt)

Method and Applications

Decoction is typically used for roots, bark, branches, and dried fruits. The herbs are simmered under a lid for 10-30 minutes. Sometimes a combination of boiling and steeping is employed, where the plant parts are brought to a boil and then allowed to steep near the boiling point for several minutes. The same dosage as for hot water infusion can be used, but if the tea is to be consumed multiple times a day, larger portions are prepared and stored in a thermos to avoid frequent preparation.

Cold Water Infusion (Kaldmaserat)

Suitable Herbs and Preparation

For herbs whose active compounds are destroyed by heat, cold water infusion is ideal. The plant material is soaked in cold water overnight. After straining, the water can be warmed to body temperature before consumption. This method is primarily used for mucilaginous herbs such as flaxseed, marshmallow, and mallow.

Pressed Juice

Extraction and Use

To make pressed juice, crush the plant, preferably using a juicer or a blender. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth. Freshly pressed juice from medicinal plants can be used both externally and internally. Such juice generally has a short shelf life and should be used promptly.

Tinctures (Sprituttrekk)

Preparation and Potency

Tinctures are made by extracting the active compounds of plants with alcohol. They are usually stronger than hot water infusions and decoctions. Non-alcoholic tinctures can be made using vinegar or glycerol. A typical ratio is 200 grams of dried or 300 grams of fresh plant material per liter of alcohol, usually 40-50% strength. The mixture should be stored in a dark place for about three weeks, shaken daily, then strained and stored in tightly sealed bottles. Tinctures should be diluted with water before consumption to enhance absorption and reduce the taste of alcohol.

Capsules and Powders

Usage and Benefits

Powdered herbs are easily taken as capsules but can also be sprinkled on food or mixed with water. Gelatin capsules are available at pharmacies, typically containing about 250 mg of powdered herb. Plant-based gelatin capsules are often preferred over animal-based ones. The finer the powder, the better the quality. Powders can also be used externally, such as in poultices.

Tablets (Piller)

Manufacturing and Applications

Tablets are made from compressed powdered plant material or extracts, combined with fillers and binders. Many tablets are made from standardized plant extracts, ensuring consistent potency and efficacy.

Injections

Usage and Precautions

Herbal preparations can be injected directly into the bloodstream or muscles. This method is not commonly used in herbal medicine but is done, for instance, with the mistletoe preparation Iscador for cancer patients.

Oil Infusions

Extraction Methods and Uses

Oil infusions extract fat-soluble active ingredients. Hot oil infusions simmer, while cold infusions warm in the sun. These can be used as massage oils or in salves and creams. Olive oil is commonly used for its long shelf life. Cold infusions should steep for 2-6 weeks, ideally in the sun if using flowers like calendula and St. John's wort.

Salves and Creams

Preparation and Differences

Salves contain plant oil extracts and do not include water, forming a protective layer on the skin. They are ideal for shielding damaged skin from further injury and inflammation. Creams, on the other hand, are emulsified mixtures of oil and water, absorbed by the skin, allowing it to breathe and sweat while cooling and soothing.

Medicinal Wine

Preparation and Benefits

Medicinal wines are an enjoyable way to consume strengthening and restorative plants to boost vitality and improve digestion. Herbs are soaked in red or white wine for several weeks. Examples include the tonic herb dong quai and the bitter herb wormwood.

Syrups

Preparation and Uses

Honey or raw sugar are excellent preservatives that can be combined with infusions or decoctions to make syrups, perfect for soothing sore throats and coughs. The sweet taste masks the sometimes unpleasant flavor of herbs, making syrups ideal for children.

Poultices (Grøtomslag)

Preparation and Applications

Poultices are made from fresh, dried, or powdered herbs applied directly to the skin. They can draw out pus from infected boils and soothe strains, nerve, and muscle pain. Cold poultices involve mashing the herbs into a paste and applying to the affected area. Warm poultices are made by softening herbs in steam and applying them to the skin, wrapped in a compress and kept warm.

Compresses and Lotions

Usage and Benefits

Lotions are water-based herbal preparations (infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures) used to bathe inflamed or irritated skin. Compresses involve soaking cloths in lotion and applying them to the body. They can alleviate swelling, bruising, pain, inflammation, headaches, and fevers.

Steam Inhalation

Preparation and Benefits

Steam inhalation is effective for catarrh, sinusitis, hay fever, and asthma. Adding 5-10 drops of essential oil or 25 grams of herbs to a liter of boiling water, then inhaling the steam for about 10 minutes can clear the respiratory tract.

Gargles and Mouthwash

Preparation and Use

Gargles and mouthwashes, often made with astringent herbs, tighten mucous membranes in the mouth and throat. They are prepared as infusions, decoctions, or diluted tinctures.

Baths and Washes

Preparation and Benefits

Herbal baths and washes can soothe various conditions, including sore muscles and blocked sinuses. They are made from infusions or diluted essential oils. Eye washes must be very mild to avoid irritation.

Suppositories and Pessaries

Preparation and Applications

Suppositories and pessaries are elongated pills made from a wax that melts at body temperature (like cocoa butter) and essential oil or finely powdered herb. They are used when oral intake might break down the medicine before it reaches its target area. They are inserted into the vagina or rectum, where they melt, allowing rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Aromatherapy (Essential Oils)

Usage and Benefits

Essential oils can be used for massage to relieve minor pain and soreness. They must be diluted with a carrier oil before application to prevent skin irritation. Essential oils are also used in diffusers.

Burning Herbs

Uses and Rituals

The smoke from burning herbs is used to cleanse spaces and provide spiritual clarity. Herbs like sage, sagebrush, and lemongrass are burned for purification. Incense is often used in religious ceremonies.

Homeopathy

Principles and Practices

Homeopathic remedies often use plants as a base but contain very little of the original substance. Homeopaths believe the "energy imprint" of the herb initiates healing processes. These remedies are highly diluted and tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and health conditions.

Flower Remedies (Vibrational Essences)

Preparation and Uses

Flower remedies are made by transferring the energy (essence) of flowers to water, preserved with alcohol. They are believed to correct emotional imbalances that can lead to physical ailments. The energy transfer typically involves sunlight but can also be achieved by boiling.

By understanding and utilizing these various methods, individuals can effectively harness the power of medicinal herbs for a wide range of health benefits. Whether used for acute conditions, chronic diseases, or general well-being, herbs offer a natural and holistic approach to health and healing.