DECOCTION- Place one ounce of herb in one pint of water. Be sure you put roots in to boil before leaves. Bring the water to a boil and simmer for about 30 minutes covered. Let the decotion cool completely then strain and use as directed.
INFUSION- This is the origional form of a potion, it looks much like a tea. Pour one pint of boiling water over one ounce of herb. Steep for between 15 and 30 mins until a tea is formed. Use as directed.
MACERATE- This is the process of steeping an herb in fat like a salve or ointment. It is best to use almond and/or sesame oil. Heat one cup of oil over a low flame and add 1/2 ounce of herbs wrapped in cheesecloth. Allow this to soak. Continue until all of the herbs have lost their color and the oil is rich with their scen.
OINTMENT- For ointments you use a fatty substance such as lard and add herbs. One cup of fat and 3 tsp of herb should be steefed and heated several times to reach the desired effect. Vegetable shortning will work, especially saffron and almosd. Keep all ointments cool and sealed in air tight containers. Ointments used magickally are excellent when applied to chakras or pulse points.
POULTICE- Boil and steep an equal amount of herb in water. After herbs are fully dampened strain the water and place the herbs in cheesecloth or gauze. Apply directly to the affected area. This is great for rashes and mild skin irritations.
TINCTURE- Steep 4 ounces of herbs in 8 ounces of alcohol for about 2 weeks. While steeping store the tincture in an sealed container placed in a dark location. Strain the liquid when the tincture is ready.
WASH- This is a tea or infusion specifically for external use. Boil one pint of water and add 1/4 ounce of herb. Steep until lukewarm and then apply.
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