Herbs - Preparations, Methods, and Techniques - Compresses, Poultices, and Fomentations

- Compresses -

To prepare a compress, use a clean cloth made either of cotton, gauze, or linen, and soak in a hot infusion or decoction. Place cloth as hot as possible on the affected area and either change it when cooled or cover the cloth with plastic or waxed paper and place a hot water bottle on top. The heat enhances the activity of the herb. Compresses may also be applied cold and this is often helpful for headaches and minor fevers.

- Poultices -

Poultices may be prepared using either fresh or dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, they can be bruised and applied directly to the skin. If using dried, they must be made into a paste first using either hot water or apple cider vinegar. The poultice can either be applied directly to the skin, placed in a disposable infusion bag, or wrapped in a piece of cheesecloth, then applied to the affected area.

Benefits will be enhanced by keeping the poultice warm using the same method as described for compresses, above. If convenient, the poultice may be held in place by using a strip of cotton and wrapping the area before appling the hot water bottle. Poultices can usually be left in place for several hours or overnight.

- Fomentations -

Fomentations are always applied hot and are made in the same way as a compress, but are generally used for internal complaints such as abdominal pains and chest congestion. It is important to always keep the application as hot as possible to be effective and this will usually require changing the cloth that has been soaked in the infusion or decoction several times per hour.

- ''Hot Pot'' Preparation -

A "hot pot" is a special preparation used for severe joint pain and stiffness, such as arthritis and rheumatism. Place approximately 250g pure beeswax in the upper part of a double boiler. Put over low heat and melt. When liquefied, add one pod finely chopped dried red capsicum (red cayenne pepper) and let simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and return infused wax to pot. Keep warm, but not hot.

To apply, have the person lie or sit in a comfortable position with easy access to the affected area. Cover affected area with olive oil and, using an inexpensive 1" or 2" brush, apply the hot wax to the area. Wax paper placed under the area will catch any drips. When well-coated, massage affected and surrounding area well for 15 minutes before removing any remaining wax with a warm cloth. Repeat treatments as required, usually 1 or 2 times daily.

NOTE: Remember not to leave the brush in the hot wax pot. It can easily burn and give off quite an awful smell. If this happens, you will have to discard your wax and brush and prepare a new batch.