Tropical Herbs

Herbs are prepared according to the condition that is being treated. Some of the most common are hot teas, boiled teas,  tinctures and cold-soaking. Herbs can be added to hot bathwater  while you are soaking.  Inhaling  the vapor from steaming herbs  can help congestion. Ground herbs are also put into capsules or tablet form.  Plants are prepared in different manners because of  the methods required to release the plant chemicals.  For example, preparing a  tea from  a plant might release  certain needed  properties  that would not be released if  you prepared a tincture. Some  are soluble in alcohol  while others are  soluble in  water.

A rainforest healer has aquired his knowledge over a period of time and has been taught by another healer.  Traditional preparation methods are passed from generation to generation, usually from father to son.  It is important to prepare herbs properly to get the greatest health benefits.  Herbs won't do their job if not prepared correctly or you're still consuming junk food. Not all companies sell herbs that have been extracted in the manner necessary for that particular herb to be effective. Some herbs are less effective in capsule form than if taken as a tincture or extract. Sometimes it's better to take the bitter liquid to get the desired results.

In general, many plants prepared as infusions and cold macerations are water soluble which means they will be just as effective in capsule or tablets. The aromatic plants generally need heat to release their aroma so these would be more effective as teas.

Prepare your own

You can prepare your own herbs or buy them. It's a little time consuming but not difficult to prepare them at home. You might even save some money. First you need to have good quality raw herbs which are usually dried.  Store herbs in glass jars that are closed tightly to keep air and moisture out. If stored properly they will keep for about a year. Dried bark and roots will keep for about two years. Ground herbs can be used to make teas and tinctures. Finely ground plants usually make a stronger remedy. Use only distilled or purified water instead of tap water that can contain chlorine and other chemicals.

 
 Water is heated to almost boiling and poured over the herb in a cup and allowed to steep for 10-15 min. Avoid preparing herbs in metal pots. The metal will leach into the tea. Usually use 1 tsp. of powdered herb to 8 oz. water. Some teas come already in tea bags. Drink 2-3 cups daily.
 
 
 Bark, roots, fibrous plants are best prepared as decoctions. Use same ratio as infusion and bring to a boil in ceramic pot and simmer for 20 min. with lid on.  Remove from heat and allow to cool.  You don't want steam to escape because this will allow essential oils to be lost. Standard dosage is 2-3 cups per day.
 
 
 Tinctures are usually made with alcohol and water. When prepared correctly they can last several years. Vodka, rum can be used and should  be at least 80 proof. For a shelf-life of one year, alcohol must be at least 40% which is 80-90 proof. Use 2 oz. of dried plant for 1 cup of liquid. When dealing with cut herbs, measure by weight, not bulk. Place plant in dark amber bottle and pour equal amount of water and alcohol over herb. Seal with tight lid and store in dark place at room temperature, shaking once a day for two weeks. Then strain and squeeze to get out as much liquid as possible. Pour into a fresh jar with tight lid. A cheesecloth will work. Store at room temperature out of direct light.
 
 
 Soak the herb overnight. In the morning, strain.