In addition, different directions are sometimes given, owing to the ability of one process to extract one active principle from the herb, while a different action will remove another element. For example, an infusion of lobelia will give a mildly sedative effect, whereas a tincture of lobelia can produce an emetic effect. Below are some of the most commonly used concentrations. Capsules These are made simply by taking the herb in powdered or finely ground form, and placing it in a gelatin capsule. These are available in sizes from 00 to 4, with 0 and 00 being the sizes most often used for herbs.
Capsules make herbs with an acrid taste or unpleasant oils more palatable.
After making capsules, be sure to keep them in a safe container, accurately labeled, including the date of preparation. Gelatin capsules contain beef and pork tissue. However, an all-vegetable capsule may soon be available. A conserve is a soft mass of herbs mixed with sugar or honey. Date sugar works as well.