A hot infusion is essentially the same thing as a tea. Take 1-2 teabags or 1-2 teaspoons of the herb; pour about 1 cup of boiling water over the herbs, steep and allowing to cool, or use hot. It should be strained before using. An infusion can also be made by placing 1-2 teabags of the herb in about 1 cup of cold or tepid water. Place this in a closed container such as a jar for a few hours or overnight. Shake the mixture vigorously every so often. Strain and drink.
Decoctions
When the active principle of an herb is water-soluble and can not be destroyed by heat, a decoction can be made. A decoction is especially useful for hard materials such as roots, barks and seeds. A good general rule is to take 1-2 teabags or 1-2 rounded teaspoons of the herb and place in a glass or porcelain pot with one cup of cold water. Cover pot and simmer substance 10-15 minutes. Strain the decoction and allow it to cool.
