Looking away from the chemically intrusive nature of Western medicine, we can see an ever
growing culture and acceptance of more natural healing aids. From dealing with common
colds, to fighting even cancer, Chinese herbal medicine and teas have proven to be a
potent way to get results. However, the therapeutic remedies of raw herbs can be a
very complicated process, with each brew specifically designed to suit specific individual
needs and biological structure. The mixing of such herbs should only be done by the most
professional and experienced. Aside from this however, there are also many ways when it
comes to steeping the herbs, to extract their full therapeutic value. The following is a
general overview of the various techniques and should only serve as a subordinate guideline
to the advice provided by your herbalist.
The Use of Water and The Proper Container
The interesting aspect of water is that different sources of water provide various different
effects. Hundreds of years ago, the source of water was a very serious issue because whether
you obtained it from a lake, the rain or a spring, it provided slightly different results.
Today however, any source of drinking water is suitable.
What does make a difference though, is the type
of container used. Ceramic and glass are the most preferable because any metals might induce
unwanted chemical reactions with the herbs, thus altering their effect. In some cases it might
even produce unhealthy results.
Cooking Procedures
After soaking the herbs, place them into your pot of water. Make sure the herbs are
around an inch to two inches below the water and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
Heat up the brew until it starts to boil, then bring the temperature down to a low simmer.
It is very important that you do not lift up the lid because crucial minerals can
evaporate from the brew quite easily.
The duration of time in which to cook the herbs often depends on the type of herbs. The
average is about 20 to 30 minutes. Some herbs, such as aromatic herbs require only 5
minutes, while tonic herbs need 40 to 50 minutes. Be sure to consult your herbalist.
Strain the juices and drink. Such teas and herbal medicine often have a very bitter
taste, and in some cases extremely nauseating. It might be a good idea to water it
down, however, if you intend to add sweeteners such as honey, it would be advisable
that you ask your herbalist first, as it might create adverse effects.
Note: Some herbs have different preperatory procedures. For some a special
straining technique is required, while others come in the form of powder and need to be melted, etc.
It is important that you consult your herbalist before attempting anything.
Some Words of Advice
For maximum results, it is best to take the herbs on an empty stomach, an hour before
eating, or an hour after eating. Drinking the herbs when your stomach is the most
empty allows for better absorption of the minerals. However as a result of its
discomforting taste, you might feel a little nauseous. Some recommendations would be
to drink some fresh ginger juice, or eat the ginger itself. Also drinking the tea an
hour after eating might be the best solution.
We do not advise that you combine such herbs with Western medicine. Because Western
pharmaceuticals are dependent on chemicals, the mixture could produce adverse effects.
It is recommended that you consult your local doctor or herbalist before mixing the two.
