Field Remedies/Preparation/Infusion

One can prepare most herbal remedies by infusion. The infusion method involves preparing herbs by placing 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb or 2 to 4 fresh herbs in oil or water for approximately ten minutes, then straining. Waiting too long before straining results in bitter tasting herbs. People typically prepare teas and herbal teas by infusion. Long term infusions involve leaving the herbs in the solute for at least one year. Long term infusions result in highly concentrated solutions similar to essential oils. Because of their concentration, users of long-term infusions must take greater care with overdose concerns; long term infusions do not function as teas.