The cumin seeds were probably used to disguise the bitter taste of the shepherd's purse, as well as being warming and antispasmodic themselves. Finally, the red wine was believed to help draw out the beneficial properties of the plants. B efore we start using herbal remedies, though, it's wise to do our homework. Ask questions, consult a qualified practitioner, and deal only with reputable suppliers and merchants. Just as we wouldn't walk into a pharmaceutical warehouse and sample bottles, neither should we randomly consume herbal remedies.
Plants can be poisonous as well as beneficial.
The same plant can even be both, depending on the dosage. Herbs are available in a variety of forms. If you are purchasing them dried, the most economical way, buy them as fresh as possible. If making a tea, use one teaspoon per cup of hot water and steep for ten minutes. You can also find many herb preparations as capsules or tablets, which are often more palatable than their powdered versions.