Basic Medicinal Alchemy
Preparations for internal Use –
Extracts
- Tinctures – Heavily concentrated extracts made by placing herbs in a jar and applying a solvent such as alcohol, glycerine, or vinegar. The mixture is then sealed and macerated over several weeks. Because alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the blood stream, tinctures are the best go-to preparation for acute illnesses.
- Elixirs – Made by adding honey (or other sweeteners) to a tincture at a ratio of 2:1.
- Cordials – Similar to elixirs, except these can incorporate other ingredients, along with the tincture and honey.
Teas
- Infusions – A drink or medicinal remedy prepared by steeping the leaves of a plant or herb in hot water.
- Decoctions – These are infusions which utilize the hardier parts of the plants – the stalks, bark, or roots, or seeds. They are then simmered from twenty to sixty minutes depending on desired potency.
- Brews – These are accomplished by fermenting either infusions or decoctions.
- Syrups – Like elixirs, syrups are made by adding honey or another sweetener to a tea at a ratio of about 1:1, depending on tastes.
- Liniments – A tincture comprised of alcohol or witch hazel as the medium.
- Ointments – A mixture of oil and tea which is easily absorbed into the skin.
- Salves – A mixture of oil, herbs, and beeswax which isn't easily absorbed into the skin.
- Compress – A bundling of herbs which is held in direct contact with the skin for healing. The herbs can either be in dried form, or hot or cold extracts in the form of tincture or tea.
- Poultice – This is similar to a compress, except the ingredients are mixed into a mud and applied directly to the wound without the use of a bundle.
The Alchemist's Desk by Everwild
