HERBAL RECIPE CORNER

HERBAL RECIPES FROM OUR BLOG:

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Autumn Decoction Recipe: by Herbal Academy: Decoctions are simmered teas that are perfect for extracting the properties of hard roots, dried berries, barks, and seeds. They are much stronger in flavor than herbal infusions and also more concentrated. This recipe is a simple base formula for wellness during cooler fall days and nights. This formula is nutritive, and the immune system can function properly when we are able to keep our nutritional intake up. Along with the nutritive properties of dandelion and burdock, the ingredients are supportive to the body’s natural detoxification systems, specifically the liver. Hawthorn berry supports the nervous system, has nutritive properties, and has a slightly moistening effect. This is a drying formula and keeping up water intake is important. Ginger is warming, anti-inflammatory, and digestive. If you are feeling a cold coming on, increase the amount of ginger in the formula, take a hot bath, and let yourself sweat. As the body temperature increases, it supports battling of the cold.

Ingredients: Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale), Ginger Rhizome (Zingiber officinale), Hawthorn Berry (Crataegus spp.), and Burdock Root (Arctium lappa). For an extra treat, add a bit of coconut milk and cinnamon for a rooty, yet creamy, beverage. Feel free to experiment with different amounts of each herb depending on wellness needs and taste preferences. This can also act as a base formula in which to add other immune supporting herbs during cold and flu season. Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), Elecampane (Inula helenium), or Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) roots are all good additions. Local, raw honey is also soothing for coughs, colds, and flu.

Directions: Use one teaspoon to one tablespoon of herbs per cup of cold water. Add the herbs and cold water to a pot. Place the pot on the stove and bring up to a gentle boil. Put a lid on the pan and lightly simmer for twenty to forty minutes. Once the decoction is finished simmering, more delicate leafy herbs or flowers that cannot stand up to the lengthy simmer time, can be added into the hot water. Remove from the heat and let the decoction cool to drinking temperature. Finish up by straining out the herbs. These same herbs can be used to brew up a new batch of decoction a couple of times as long as the decoction is still strong after brewing. Refrigerate leftovers and use within 48 hours.