CAUTIONARY NOTE ON HERBS
Most herbs can be used safely over long periods in small amounts. However, care should be taken when using herbs that have a. cumulative effect.
Golden seal should not be taken over long periods of time because of its effect on the intestinal bacteria which can affect the absorption of Vitamin B. Lily of the valley and ephedra should not be used with persons who are suffering from a history of very high blood pressue. Comfrey and foxglove are cumulative and poisonous in large amounts.
When collecting wild herbs, know the herb that you are gathering. It is not difficult to incorrectly identify wild herbs. A good rule is that if you are not sure, do not use it.
Do not use essential oils in large doses as they are concentrated and may cause irritation in contact with the eyes or mucous membranes.
FORMS OF HERBAL PREPARATIONS
Infusions: Decoctions:
Percolation:
Made with the use of spirits where the herb cannot be heated or when the drug only gives up its principles to spirit. Are the most concentrated form of the drug. They are made by concentrating the chemicals in liquid by evaporation, high pressure. 28gm of drug = 28gm of liquid Are made by pouring boiling water over the herb and letting it stand for half an hour and then straining the liquid off. A decoction of the drug requires heat. Cold water is poured over the herb and then the mixture is boiled for twenty minutes, cooled and strained.
A very effective way of obtaining the fluid, soluble part of a drug. This is obtained by allowing the fluid to drip through the drug time and time again in a percolator, until nearly all the soluble matter is extracted from the drug.
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