Photosensitivity, GI upset, bloating. May increase menstrual bleeding.
How to Prepare Dong Quai
C
Capsules (Powdered Herb)Moderate · 30-60 minutes per batch
Equipment
Herb grinder or pre-powdered herb, Empty vegetarian capsules (size 00 or 0), Capsule filling machine (optional but recommended), Small bowl, Scale (optional for precision)
Instructions
1If using whole dried herb, grind to a fine powder using a dedicated herb grinder.
2Pour the powdered herb into a small bowl or capsule filling tray.
3Separate the capsule halves. Fill the larger half with powder, tapping to pack gently.
4Press the smaller half onto the larger half to seal.
5A size 00 capsule holds approximately 500-700mg of powdered herb.
6Standard dosing varies by herb — typically 1-3 capsules, 2-3 times daily with food.
Tips
• A capsule filling machine makes the process much faster and more consistent.
• Pre-powdered herbs from reputable suppliers save significant effort.
• Store finished capsules in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
Capsules bypass taste, which can be important — bitter taste stimulates digestion. For digestive herbs, teas or tinctures may be more effective. Always follow recommended dosing.
Store in airtight containers away from moisture. Use within 6-12 months for best potency.
T
Alcohol TinctureModerate · 4-6 weeks (passive)
Equipment
Glass mason jar with lid, High-proof alcohol (80-100 proof vodka), Measuring cup, Cheesecloth or fine strainer, Dark glass dropper bottles, Labels
Instructions
1Fill a clean mason jar 1/3 to 1/2 full with dried herb (or 2/3 full with fresh herb).
2Pour 80-proof (40%) vodka over the herbs until the jar is full, covering herbs by at least 2 inches.
3Seal tightly and label with the herb name, alcohol type, and date.
4Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every day or two.
5After 4-6 weeks, strain through cheesecloth into a clean bowl, squeezing out all liquid.
6Pour the finished tincture into dark glass dropper bottles. Label with herb, date, and menstruum.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The information on Healix Natural Solutions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a licensed healthcare provider.
7Standard adult dose is typically 30-60 drops (1-2 dropperfuls) in a small amount of water, 2-3 times daily.
Tips
• Use at least 80-proof (40%) alcohol — this extracts both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds.
• For resins and tough roots, use 100-proof (50%) or higher.
• Fresh plant tinctures use a higher ratio of alcohol to prevent spoilage from plant moisture.
Tinctures are concentrated — follow dosing guidelines carefully. Not suitable for those avoiding alcohol (use glycerites instead). Some herbs are only safe as tinctures in very small doses.
Alcohol tinctures last 3-5 years or more when stored properly in dark glass away from heat and light.
• Use a non-aluminum pot — aluminum can react with plant compounds.
• Decoctions are necessary for roots, bark, seeds, and mushrooms — these are too tough for simple steeping.
• You can simmer mushrooms (Reishi, Chaga) for 2+ hours for stronger extraction.
Some roots are very potent — follow specific dosing guidelines for individual herbs. Avoid decocting herbs with volatile oils (peppermint, chamomile) as you will lose the beneficial compounds.
Refrigerate and use within 48-72 hours. Can be gently reheated.
• Honey can mask bitter flavors — add after the liquid has cooled below 104°F (40°C) to preserve honey's properties.
Start with smaller amounts and increase gradually. Powdered herbs are concentrated — measure carefully.
Store in airtight containers away from light and moisture. Use within 6-12 months.
