Herbal remedies, or how and what to use dried herbs for
Dried herbs are a true treasure trove of nature, full of medicinal substances. Using them correctly can help us maintain health and strengthen the immune system. Let's take a look together at the basic ways we can use them in everyday life.
Preparing herbal tea
It is the simplest and most common way to use dried herbs.
- Dosage: Generally, 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb or their mixture per cup of water is recommended.
- Preparation: Pour boiling water over the herb, let it steep for 10-15 minutes, and then strain.
- Tip: To enhance the effect, you can use a thermos and let the tea steep for longer.
Recipe example:
- Soothing tea: 1 teaspoon of lemon balm, 1 teaspoon of lavender, 1 teaspoon of chamomile.
- For colds: 1 teaspoon of wild thyme, 1 teaspoon of lime blossom, 1 teaspoon of ginger.
Tincture Preparation
Tinctures are alcoholic extracts of herbs. Alcohol helps to extract the active ingredients from plants.
- Dosage: A few drops of tincture (generally 10-20 drops per dose) are dissolved in a little water or honey.
- Preparation: Pour high-quality food-grade alcohol (vodka, brandy, potable spirit, medicinal alcohol) over the dried herb in a ratio of 1:5 (1 part herb to 5 parts alcohol). The stronger the alcohol, the stronger the tincture will be.
Leave to macerate for 2-4 weeks in a dark place, shaking regularly. Then strain. - Warning: Tinctures are not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Preparation of macerated oil
Macerated oils are primarily used in cosmetics and aromatherapy.
- Usage: They are added to baths, massages or used as a base for making homemade cosmetic products.
- Preparation: Pour vegetable oil (olive, almond) over the dried herb and leave to macerate for 2-4 weeks in a warm place. Then strain.
Preparation of ointment
Herbal ointments are used for skin care.
- Preparation: Mix the dried herb with melted fat (coconut oil, cocoa butter), heat in a water bath and let cool. It is also possible to use macerated oil from the herb and add approx. 10 - 20% wax.
Adding herbal powders to dishes
Dried herbs can easily be ground into a powder and added to various dishes. As a dietary supplement, it is advisable to add about 1/2 teaspoon of ground herb per serving (for example, with ashwagandha, spirulina, etc.)
- Usage: To soups, sauces, fillings, smoothies, pastries.
- Dosage: According to taste and recipe or according to the recommended dosage of a specific herb.
Herbal compresses
Herbal compresses are ideal for local application, for example, on sore joints, inflamed skin or when you have a cold.
Preparation:
- Decoction: Bring water to a boil with the selected herb (e.g. chamomile, sage, oak bark). Allow to steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Soaking the cloth: Soak a clean cotton cloth or gauze in the decoction.
- Application: Apply the cooled, but still warm, compress to the affected area.
- Fixation: You can cover the compress with cling film and secure it with a bandage to keep the heat in for longer.
Tips:
- Cold compresses: You can use a cold decoction to reduce swelling and pain.
- Warm compresses: Use a warm decoction to relax muscles and increase blood flow.
- Combine: You can combine herbal compresses with essential oils to enhance the effect.
Herbal baths
Herbal baths have relaxing effects, help with skin problems and can relieve stress.
Preparation:
- Decoction: Prepare a stronger decoction of herbs (e.g. lavender, chamomile, mother of thyme).
- Pouring into the bath: Pour the strained decoction into the filled bathtub.
- Bath time: The bath should last 15-20 minutes.
Tips:
- Salt: You can add sea salt to enhance the effect and its other benefits.
- Essential oils: A few drops of essential oil (e.g. lavender, eucalyptus) will add a pleasant fragrance and other benefits to the bath.
- After the bath: After the bath, wrap yourself in a soft towel and let your body rest.
Selection of herbs for compresses and baths:
- Chamomile: Against inflammation, wound healing, soothing irritated skin.
- Sage: Against sweating, for inflammations in the oral cavity, for hair.
- Lavender: For relaxation, for insomnia, for sunburn.
- Thyme: For colds, coughs, and respiratory infections.
- Oak bark: For skin problems, eczema, and sweaty feet.
Important warning: Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbs, especially if you have any health problems or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Further tips:
- Drying herbs: If you grow your own herbs, dry them in a shady, well-ventilated place.
- Storage: Store dried herbs in closed containers in a dry and dark place.
- Mixing herbs: You can combine different herbs to create blends with different effects.
Important warning
- Allergies: Before using new herbs, make sure you are not allergic to them.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Some herbs are not suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Medications: If you are taking any medications, consult your doctor about using herbs.
Dried herbs are a great addition to a healthy diet and can help us with many health problems. Experiment with different recipes and discover their beneficial effects on your own skin.
This article is for general information only and does not replace professional advice from a doctor or herbalist.
Want to learn more about specific herbs and their effects? Write to us!
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