Everyday herbal medicine, without the mystique

Medicine was never separate from dinner. Thyme for the chest, ginger for the gut, hibiscus to cool the blood — the pharmacy lived on the shelf above the stove.

Begin with an infusion rather than a tincture. Cover a small handful of dried leaf with boiled water, cap it, and let it sit for fifteen minutes. Capping matters; the volatile oils you want are in the steam.

Herbs interact with medications. Ask your practitioner before you begin anything daily — reverence includes caution.