with any root follow the directions below to make a decoction
To decoct means "to extract the flavor or essence of something
by boiling." The term decoction is used to describe the extract
obtained after boiling. An herbal decoction is similar to an
infusion, but is made from the root and bark of a plant.
Decoctions are used when a the root or bark is not soluble in cold
or hot water, but will often yield its soluble ingredients after
simmering in water for five to twenty minutes. A decoction is
valuable because it contains an herb's essential mineral salts and
alkaloids.
To prepare a decoction, place a teaspoon of the dried herb in an
enamel or glass container with one cup of pure water. Instead of
steeping the mixture, boil it-five minutes is enough if the
material is finely shredded, but if the herb is hard or woody,
twenty minutes is necessary to produce a good decoction. It is
helpful if the plant is first soaked in cold water and then brought
to a boil. Decoctions should always be strained while hot.