One of the easiest and oldest forms of extracting herbs is with water. Traditionally, both cold and hot water were used in extractions, methods that are commonly used today. Which application you select depends on the chemical constituents being extracted from the herb.
With practice, you will find it gets easier to determine which type of water extract is best in a situation. Below you will find steps for a hot infusion, which is made similarly to a strong tea.
Materials:
- Ball jar - pint, quart, or half gallon size
- Hot water kettle or pot for stovetop to heat up water
Ingredients:
- Dried herb(s) of choice - (2) Tablespoons to (1) ounce (about 1-3 handfuls, depending on the herb)
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If you are making hot infusions regularly, it can be easiest to use a pint or quart ball jar with lid
- If you do not have a glass ball jar, use any glass or ceramic vessel you would like and place a plate over top while it steeps
- Select dried herb(s) of choice. Consider the strength of infusion you would like. Using from (2) Tablespoons to (1) ounce of herb may be appropriate
- Add dried herbs to the container
- Pour boiling water over the herbs covering them completely and covering it with a lid
- Leave the jar on the counter for 30 minutes - 10 hours with the length of time dependent on the herb you are using. For example: flower and leaf infusions may steep for 30 minutes while roots or berries may need to steep for 8-10 hours
- Once the solution has steeped for the desired amount of time, strain the herb and keep the infusion stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days
- Enjoy the hot infusion as directed, usually enjoying between 1-4 cups each day for the recommended length of time
Herbs that work well in a hot infusion:
Red clover, dandelion, oat straw, mullein, holy basil, elecampane, passionflower, raspberry leaf
Play around with different herbs to see what you like best. Herbs may be used alone or in combination. For berries and some roots a decoction is preferred. Check out this recipe for how to make an herbal decoction.
Speak with an herbalist to find guidance on which herbs may be right for you.
Kathryn Cannon is an experienced organic gardener, forager, herbalist, and advocate for patient rights. She founded Terra Uma LLC in 2017 to empower clients to optimize performance and mental health by incorporating plants and fungi into their everyday routines. Kathryn was co-founder of an urban farm and community center in Portland, OR. She currently runs a wellness coaching practice in the Washington, DC area where she assists clients in finding relief with herbs and wellness tools.