The Many Ways You Can Take Herbs
Depending on the ingredient, herbal supplements are available as teas (infusions or decoctions), powders, capsules, tablets, tinctures, glycerites, sprays, creams or gels, and essential oils. When possible, it’s recommended that you use only certified organically grown or responsibly sourced herbal products. You also should inform your medical practitioner about your use of any form of an herbal supplement because it may interact with any medications you are taking or a medical condition you have.
Now let’s look at the characteristics of each of the different types of herbal supplements. This information may help you decide which form will best fit your needs and preferences.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are more accurately called infusions or decoctions because they don’t all come from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Instead, they are composed of one or more parts (i.e., leaves, roots, flowers, stems, bark, fruits, seeds) of edible (varied species) plants. These parts are used either fresh or in dried form and then extracted in water to make an herbal tea. The steeping or simmering time depends on the plant part used. Softer parts, such as leaves and flowers, are usually steeped for up to 30 minutes; this is called an infusion. Hard parts, such as roots and bark, are simmered over heat for up to 60 minutes; this is called a decoction.
Use of tea bags and loose tea is not as convenient as tinctures, glycerites, capsules, tablets, or sprays. However, drinking herbal teas is a time-honored tradition enjoyed by people around the world. Herbal teas are often part of people’s routines, whether they kick-start the day, help finish off a meal, or are enjoyed before bedtime.
