How to Make a Herbal Decoction In order to engage with the healing and health giving properties of herbs, we need to prepare them into a format that we can use to consume them in an effective way. One of the ways we can do this is by making a decoction. Herbal Decoctions A Decoction is similar to an infusion - as in, you put the herb in hot water in order to extract the useful constituents of the plant material. But whereas an infusion would be used for more delecate plant parts such as leaves or flowers, a decotion is mostly used for roots seeds, berries and barks which are harder and require a more vigourous method of extraction. Decoctions are excellent for extracting the water soluable constituents of a herb such as tannins. larger quantities of herbs can be used in a decoction, and the liqud can be left to reduce whilst simmering, which makes a much more concentrated liquid. Once the decoction has been made, you can drink it hot or cold, or apply topically to the skin. you can also inhale the vapours, obviously depending on which herb you are using and what your using it for. You can generally keep an infusion in the fridge for up to 48 hours after which time you'll need to discard anything thats left Herbal Safety I include the following herbal safety message because it is essential to your safety that this message is fully grasped and understood. The