Herbal Infusions {How To Make & Use}

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Herbal Infusions have been utilized medicinally to treat many ailments for thousands of years. Creating herbal infusions by infusing oils, water, and even vinegar with nourishing herbs releases the herbs deep healing properties, making them readily available for use.

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Learning to harness herbs medicinal & nutritive qualities has long been a favorite “hobby” here on the hill. Whether making and using our own tinctures {think St Johnswort, Valerian, Motherwort, & Elderberry}, infusing oils for salves & balms {think dandelion & calendula}, or simply drying the herbs for long-term storage {think basil here}, we love to utilize all the healing properties offered by our favorite herbs. And that includes infusing them.

WHAT IS AN HERBAL INFUSION

Herbal infusions {uses large amount of leaves, stems, & flowers}, commonly referred to as decoctions {typically uses roots, bark, & seeds}, are one of our most revered methods to use herbs as a restorative {bringing the body back into balance} as well as for medicinal purposes.

Herbal infusions, aka “long infusions”, are made using large amounts of herbs steeped in hot water for, you got it, long periods of time. Typically steeped for 6-8 hours or more. This deep infusion allows for optimal nutrient content according to Rosemary Gladstar.

One of our favorites to infuse are Nettles, due to their high nutrient content, antioxidant, & anti-inflammatory properties. Earths healing gifts at it’s finest.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN HERBAL INFUSION & TEA

Although both are considered infusions, there are differences. As stated, an infusion utilizes large amounts of herb and steeped a long period of time. Tea, however, typically using just the leaves of the plant, utilizes smaller amounts of the herb and are steeped for a much shorter time period.

IS AN HERBAL INFUSION THE SAME AS A TISANE

While tea is typically made using just the leaves of one plant {true tea is from Camellia Sinensis, a native shrub in Asia}, a tisane or herbal tea {not actually a tea at all}, especially when medicinal, are infusions that utilize many parts of the plant. Root, bark, stems, & leaves are all used in tisanes.

ARE HERBAL INFUSIONS HEALTHY

In a nutshell, YES! In addition to the healthy dose of nutrients & medicinal properties that vary according to the herb of choice, infusions can also help to reduce stress {think Peppermint, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, & even Passion Flower}, help improve the immune system {think Dandelion, Ginseng, and Licorice}, and help reduce pain & soreness {think Turmeric, and Feverfew} to name just a few.

HOW TO MAKE A NOURISHING HERBAL INFUSION

Making a deeply nourishing herbal infusion is easy. We prefer to use a hot herbal infusion method as we feel this draws out the herbs enzymes, vitamins, & oils much more effectively. This is the method we utilize & feel works best.

• Add 1 oz of dried herb {approximately 1 cup} and place into a mason jar or container of choice
• Place the jar on hot pad or cutting board as it will get hot
• Cover the herb with hot water & seal
• Allow the mixture to steep for 4-10 hours. We typically make this before bedtime and allow to steep overnight
• Strain through a fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth {good for squeezing all that goodness out}, or tea strainer
• Cover infusion, we like to store in refrigerator

HOW LONG DO HERBAL INFUSIONS LAST

Herbal infusions are not long lasting. We typically like to use our infusions within 3-4 days but depending on the herb used, some may last up to a week. We have found they last a bit longer by storing in the refrigerator.

Can’t drink or use the entire infusion within that time frame? Don’t throw it away! Use to water your houseplants {they will thank you}, add to a restorative bath, add to your furry friends or homestead animals water {depending on herb used of course}, or water your outdoor garden!

HERB SUGGESTIONS FOR HERBAL INFUSIONS

Where to begin? There are so many beneficial herbs to choose from. We recommend you research thoroughly the herb of choice, both it’s benefits as well as cautions and contraindications prior to making & using.

Not all herbs are created equal. Highly aromatic herbs such as parsley, chervil, chives, rosemary, mints, basil {to name just a few}, are NOT recommended for use in long infusions. Some herbs, such as the ones listed, will become bitter and unpalatable if used in long brews. These types of herbs are powerful in their natural state. Think of it as nature informing you it may be too much of a good thing 🙂

Here are a few of our favorites we enjoy…

STINGING NETTLE LEAF – This may be our favorite to make & use. This highly beneficial herb is the king of infusions in our humble opinion. It’s benefits tout the following nourishing benefits …

• Improves & strengthens adrenal systems
• Allieves & assists with cystitis, bloat, & incontinence
• Helps with arthritis, gout, & joint pain
• Improves endocrine glands
• Relieves constipation & hemorrhoids
• Nourishes skin & healthy hair
• Improves stamina; reduces fatigue
• Strengthens the nervous system
• Eases hay fever

OAT STRAW – We often use oat straw & stinging nettle together as an infusion. Oat straw boasts of the following benefits …

• Boasts high mineral content
• Strengthens the nervous system
• Nourishes the pancreas & liver functions
• Improves digestion
• Improves circulatory systems
• Great source of calcium

DANDELION LEAF – Dandelion may be one of our favorites to use for so many purposes. As an infusions the benefits are many.

• Relieves constipation
• High in mineral content
• Diuretic {flushes kidneys}
• Contains potent antioxidants
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Liver support/increases bile production

These are just 3 of the favorites used here on the hill. Other options include red clover leaf {high in protein and vitamins & also containing anit-inflammatory properties}, linden {great for colds & flu, antispasmodic, & sinus pain}, and mullein {lung issues, anti-inflammatory properties}.

Again, due your due diligence when selecting herbs to infuse. Research, ask questions, and be mindful. These are potent medicinals and should be taken seriously.

There may be nothing finer than what nature has provided us to support & promote health, and even cure in some intances, disease & ailments. Learning to harness all that potent “medicine” and use it to our advantage is a quest we have been on for many years.

It’s also not a difficult “quest”. It’s one that’s readily available to all. Do you already infuse your herbs? What are your favorites to use? What do you use them for? Join our conversation below. We love to hear from you! And in the meantime, enjoy those herbal bennies 🙂

Love, Light, & Laughter ~