Herbal compresses are used externally to treat rashes, headaches, bug bites, bruises, fever, and many other ailments. Herbal compresses are made by soaking a clean cotton cloth in an herbal tea and applying it to the affected area of the skin. Compresses are used with both hot and cold teas depending on the specific ailment.
Instructions:
1. Make an herbal tea, also called an infusion or decoction, by steeping 1 teaspoon of fresh herb or 1/4 teaspoon dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 15 minutes.
2. After the herbal tea has steeped for 15 minutes, you can use it warm for a warm herbal compress or allow it to continue to cool for a cool compress.
3. Soak a clean cotton cloth in the herbal tea to be used. Squeeze the excess liquid out of the cloth and apply to the area needing treatment.
4. Common Herbs for Making Compresses
Burdock - Acne and eczema
Chamomile - Puffy eyes, eye strain and rashes
Dandelions - Warts
Lavender - Burns
Plantain - Insect bites
Rosemary - Muscle pain
Comfrey - Injuries and sprains
