Sometimes, you simply add them to hot water and let them melt. A good example of this is E Jiao. Soaked Herbs that are very aromatic or volatile can be decocted by placing them in hot water without cooking on the fire. Just let the herb steep in water that has been heated to boiling, after you take the water off the fire. Hong Hua is an example of herbs in this category.
Some herbs come in powdered form.
With these herbs, you simply add the appropriate amount to hot water, stir, and drink. Some herbs that are especially expensive are powdered to make more efficient use of their properties with the minimum cost. When to take your herbs. Generally, as a rule, it is best to take your herb tea one hour before eating, on an empty stomach. This provides the best absorption of the ingredients of the herbs.