I get questions almost every single day as to how much and what type of herbal remedy a person should take. I refer to this chart often from Rosemary Gladstar with a few minor tweaks and additions that I prefer. I will also describe the different options of herbal remedies you can use successfully with basic directions. The key to successful results with herbs is that you must take them as early as you can, often during the illness duration and after you start feeling better. Hopefully you can find this information as valuable as I have.

 

Infusions & Decoctions

A tea or infusion is made by boiling purified water and pouring it over loose herb, usually leaves and flowers, or herbal tea bags in a cup or even a quart jar. Once the hot water is poured over the herb, cover it so the volatile oils are preserved. Steep for 15 minutes for a mild tea or 30 minutes for a strong tea.  A decoction is made with roots, seeds and barks. These materials usually need a little more heat and time to extract the medicinal qualities into the water. Simmer the plant material on low heat for 20 – 30 minutes with the lid on the pan. Strain and use like an infusion. You can make a quart of tea once a day and drink it throughout the day. When an adult dose is 1 cup…

Age 

Younger than 2 years – ½ – 1 teaspoon

2 – 4 years – 2 teaspoons

4 – 7 years – 1 tablespoon

7 – 11 years – 2 tablespoons

For chronic issues use 3-4 cups daily for 5 days, rest for 2 days, then repeat for several weeks, or until the problem is corrected.

For acute issues use 1/4 – 1/2 cup throughout the day up to 4 cups during illness and a day or two after you start feeling better.

 

Tinctures & Glycerites

A tincture is made with fresh or dried herbs. I like to use a 1:5 ratio usually. For example if I wanted to make a yarrow tincture I would place 100 grams (you can use ounces too) of dry yarrow herb in a pint jar and 500 milliliters of 50% or 100 proof alcohol. I also like to blend up the herb to create more surface area for better extraction. Cover and shake once a day for 4 weeks. Strain and press out as much of the tincture as you can. I discovered using a potato press works well lined with a coffee filter. Label and date. Tinctures are preferred for their long shelf life and fast acting results. Glycerites are used for little children and babies or those who cannot use any alcohol. I like to use a 1:1 ratio of purified water and organic glycerin. Use the same measurements as the tincture directions. Glycerites must be kept in the fridge and only halve a shelf life of 2-3 years. When an adult dosage is 1 teaspoon (60 drops)…

Age 

Younger than 3 months – 2 drops

3 – 6 months – 3 drops

6 – 9 months – 4 drops

9 – 12 months – 5 drops

12 – 18 months – 7 drops

18 – 24 months – 8 drops

2 – 3 years – 10 drops

3 – 4 years – 12 drops

4 – 6 years – 15 drops

6 – 9 years – 24 drops

9 – 12 years – 30 drops

For chronic issues use 1/2 -1 teaspoon 3 times daily for  5 days, rest for 2 days, then continue for several weeks, or until the problem is corrected.

For acute issues use 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon every 30-60 minutes during an illness and for another day or two after you start feeling better.

 

Syrups & Oxymels

Syrups are made by making an infusion or decoction of your choice of herbs and then strained into a large measuring cup. Add equal amounts of honey or glycerin and half part brandy if you like to extend the shelf life. Keep in the fridge for up to 6 months. Oxymels are very similar, except you would macerate or soak herbs in warm apple cider vinegar for 4 weeks like a tincture. Then strain and add equal amounts of honey. Also keep oxymels in the fridge for up to 6 months. When 2 tablespoons is an adult dose…

Age                                                                                                                                        

Younger than 2 years – 1/4 – 1 teaspoon

2 – 4 years – 1 teaspoon

4 – 7 years – 2 teaspoons

7 – 11 years – 1 tablespoon

For chronic issues use 1 2 tablespoon 3 times daily for 5 days, rest for 2 days, then continue for several weeks, or the problem is corrected.

For acute issues use 1 teaspoon every 30-60 minutes during an illness and for another day or two after you start feeling better.

Capsules or  Tablets 

When an adult dose is 4 capsules. Cut in half for children under 12 that can swallow a capsule.

For chronic issues take 4 caps 2x a day for 5 days, rest for 2 days, then continue for several weeks until symptoms subside.

For acute issues take 4 caps 3 -4 times a day for a few days after you start to feel better.