How To Use Bulk Herbs

Simple Ways to Prepare Your Herbs at Home

Learn how to make herbal teas, decoctions, capsules, tinctures, salves, and herbal baths with our easy-to-follow preparation guides.

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Steep or Simmer herbal preparation guide from 1st Chinese Herbs showing how to steep leaves and flowers in hot water for 3–10 minutes versus simmering roots, bark, and seeds for 15–50 minutes.

Which Preparation Method Should You Use?

Herb Type Common Preparation
Leaves & Flowers Herbal Tea (Infusion)
Roots & Bark Herbal Decoction
Powdered Herbs Capsules or Product-Specific Preparation
Herbs for External Use Salves, Oils, or Baths

These are general methods, not universal rules. Some herbs require special processing or preparation. Always follow instructions for the specific herb.

Choose Your Preparation Method

Herbal Tea (Infusion)

Best for: Many leaves and flowers.

  1. Place the appropriate amount of herb in a cup.
  2. Add hot water at the recommended temperature.
  3. Cover and steep for the herb's recommended time.
  4. Strain before drinking.

Tip: Covering your tea helps retain aromatic compounds.

Herbal Decoction

Best for: Many roots, barks, and other dense plant materials.

  1. Measure the herbs and water according to the preparation instructions.
  2. Place them in a suitable saucepan.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer for the recommended time.
  5. Strain before use.

Tip: Some herbs must be added early or late in the cooking process.

Herbal Capsules

Best for: Herbs specifically suitable for consumption in powdered form.

  1. Use an appropriately processed herb powder.
  2. Measure the powder accurately.
  3. Fill clean, empty capsules.
  4. Close the capsules securely.
  5. Label and store in a dry container.

Important: Not every herb is suitable for raw powder consumption. Capsules do not establish a safe serving amount.

Herbal Tinctures

Best for: Herbs appropriate for alcohol-based extraction.

  1. Place properly prepared herbs in a clean jar.
  2. Add a suitable extraction solvent.
  3. Seal and store according to the recipe.
  4. Strain when extraction is complete.
  5. Transfer to a labeled bottle.

Important: Extraction strength, solvent concentration, and preparation time vary by herb. Alcohol tinctures are not appropriate for everyone.

Herbal Salves & Oils

Best for: Herbs appropriate for external application.

  1. Prepare a suitable herb-infused oil.
  2. Strain the plant material.
  3. Combine the oil with melted beeswax using a tested recipe.
  4. Pour into clean containers.
  5. Allow to cool and label.

Tip: Patch-test a small area of intact skin before broader use.

Herbal Baths & Foot Soaks

Best for: Herbs appropriate for external bathing preparations.

  1. Prepare an herbal infusion.
  2. Strain out the plant material.
  3. Add to comfortably warm bath water.
  4. Soak briefly as appropriate.
  5. Rinse and dry skin afterward.

Important: Avoid hot water and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Helpful Preparation Tip: Different herbs require different preparation methods.
For specific steeping instructions, explore our Herbal Guides & How-To learning center.

How to store bulk herbs properly with five simple tips: use airtight containers, keep herbs cool and away from sunlight, protect from moisture, and label jars with dates to maintain freshness and quality.

How to Store Bulk Herbs

Keep dried herbs in airtight containers away from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture. Label each container with the herb name and date. Discard herbs showing signs of mold, moisture, or unusual deterioration.

Refrigerate prepared water-based herbal liquids promptly and follow appropriate food-safety storage guidance. Homemade preparations do not have a universal shelf life.

Quality Herbs Since 1994

At 1st Chinese Herbs, we believe in clear preparation instructions, responsible herbal education, and quality-focused sourcing.

Read Our Herbal Philosophy

Questions? Contact Us

Educational Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about traditional herbal preparation methods. It is not medical advice. Herbs may interact with medications or be unsuitable for certain individuals. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using unfamiliar herbs, especially if you have a medical condition, take medication, are pregnant, or are nursing.

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