Oils
Oils are simple to make, but need to be carefully tended to prevent scorching. The best way to make them is by using a double boiler method, using a large pot of hot water and a bowl set inside it. Cram a goodly amount of plant material into the bowl and pour the oil over it. Use fresh oil, such as olive, almond etc. Pour just enough to coat the plant material but not so much that your herb is swimming in it. Set the pot on the heat and keep the water at a nice slow simmer. Occasionally feel the temperature of the oil, it should be nice and warm, not hot. Now and again, stir the mixture. This process takes about 3-4 ahns to complete. When ready the oil will be deep in color. Then you need to strain off the herb through a cloth bag and store the oil in a tightly closed jar or bottle. Oils have a shelf life of about 2 years if kept in a dark cool place.
Infusions
Infusions are usually created by steeping 1 - 2 handfuls of the dried herb in boiling water for about 10-15 ehns. Use a ceramic or enameled container when you can; metals tend to corrupt the flavor and usefulness of herbal preparations. Infusions will last for a couple of days placed in the chillery, but they are best if made fresh daily.
Salves
Each will have the base of lard. Various roots, herbs and bark can be mixed into this to help with healing. Honey can be mixed in with lard. It is a natural healer. In some of the salves for excessive pain tassa powder, capture scent or ground bark from various trees (willow has become popular for this.
Start with 8 ounces of an herbal oil and place in a non-metal pan. Add about 1/4 cup of beeswax. Heat over a very low heat until the beeswax is melted. To check the firmness of your salve, place a few drops on a plate and place in the cold storage. After a minute or two, check the consistency. If it is too soft, add more beeswax; if too hard, add more oil. When you have achieved the desired consistency, pour into clean, glass jars and cool completely. Stored in a cool, dark place, salves should keep for a couple of years.
Medicated Water
The medicated water is boiled water with a bit of salt and paga added to it. Not much paga will be needed but there should be enough that the water will become a disinfectant.