Preparing your Herbal Formula
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to preparing your custom herbal formula! In this post we’ll go over four different methods for preparing your formula at home. We recommend using whichever method is easiest for you, personally.
Why we use powdered herbs
When Dr. Özben first started her Chinese Herbal pharmacy, she wanted it to be as accessible as possible and used single herb granules to make all her formulas. As she did more training about Chinese Herbalism and grew her knowledge, she wanted to be able to see and smell the herbs she was working with. Eventually, she switched over to sourcing herbs from a wonderful local company, Spring Wind, that has the best quality herbs and even does extensive testing to verify their high quality. She purchased a heavy-duty grinder to grind the herbs, so now all our herbs are ground at the clinic and our herbal pharmacy that is plastic-free!
Four Methods for Preparing your Herbal Formula
Thermos and Strainer Method
tools needed: a thermos, a strainer (we have strainers available for purchase at the clinic), a measuring spoon, a measuring cup
method: Measure your herbs with the teaspoon and place them directly into your thermos. Measure out the hot water and put that in the thermos. Gently shake the mixture, put the lid on your thermos, and allow to steep overnight. The next morning strain the mixture to remove herbs from the water. Drink half the liquid in the morning, then the second half drink in the evening (unless your directions say otherwise)
Thermos and Tea Bag Method
tools needed: a thermos, a tea bag, a measuring spoon, a measuring cup
method: Measure your herbs with the teaspoon and place them into the tea bag. Place the teabag full of herbs into your thermos. Measure out the hot water and put that in the thermos. Gently shake the mixture, put the lid on your thermos, and allow to steep overnight. The next morning remove the teabag from the water. Drink half the liquid in the morning, then the second half drink in the evening (unless your directions say otherwise)
Stovetop Method
tools needed: a pot, a stovetop, a measuring spoon, a measuring cup, a strainer (we have strainers available for purchase at the clinic)
method: Measure your herbs and water and place them into your pot. Simmer mixture on stovetop on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes. Strain mixture to remove herbs from the water. Drink half the liquid in the morning, then the second half drink in the evening (unless your directions say otherwise)
please note, some formulas require longer steeping time, consult your herbalist before using this method
tools needed: a french press, a measuring spoon and cup
method: Measure your herbs and hot water and place both in the French press. Stir vigorously for 20 seconds. Place lid on French press without pressing. Leave the mixture to sit for four minutes, then press to strain herbs from liquid. Drink half the liquid in the morning, then the second half drink in the evening (unless your directions say otherwise)
note: you can read the study Dr. Özben mentioned regarding this method here.
Questions?
If you have any questions regarding your herbal formula you can contact us at info@felekacupuncture.com.
If you’re interested in working with Dr. Özben to get your own custom herbal formula, you can schedule Herbal Telehealth appointments online here.