Description
A decoction is a stronger, simmered preparation used for tougher plant parts such as roots, bark, berries, or seeds. Heat and time are required to break down fibrous tissues and release their beneficial compounds.
Use
Best for building and strengthening the body, supporting organ systems (like liver or kidneys), and extracting more resilient compounds like alkaloids or tannins.
Application
- Ingested — Drink as tea or use as a base for other herbal preparations.
- Preparation: Add 1–2 tablespoons of dried root/bark/berries to 2 cups of water. Simmer gently (covered) for 20–45 minutes, then strain.
- Storage: Keeps for up to 48 hours refrigerated.
Tip
Combine decocted roots or barks with delicate herbs (as an infusion) after simmering to create layered formulas — for example, a decoction of dandelion root and an infusion of peppermint.