How to Decoct Chinese Herbal Medicine

1. Prepare the Pot

• Recommended: clay/sand pot, earthenware, ceramic, glass, or enamel cookware.

• Avoid reactive metal cookware such as iron, aluminum, or copper.

2. Soak the Herbs

• Place the prescribed herbs in the pot.

• Add clean water or mineral water until the water level is about 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) above the herbs.

• Soak for about 30 minutes before heating.

3. First Decoction

• Bring the herbs to a boil over high heat.

• After boiling, reduce to low heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

• Strain the liquid into a large bowl and set it aside.

4. Second Decoction

• Return the herbs to the pot and add warm or hot water.

• Bring to a boil over high heat.

• Reduce to low heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.

• Strain the second decoction into the same large bowl and mix it with the first decoction.

5. How to Take and Store

• Mix the liquids from both decoctions thoroughly, then divide into the prescribed number of doses (commonly

two portions).

• Take according to your practitioner's directions.

• Cover the remaining portion and refrigerate at about 4°C (39°F). Reheat appropriately before taking, if

instructed.