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Introduction
Welcome to Stinnett Family Farms Guide to
Herbal Remedies!
For thousands of years herbs have been used in healing
different types of ailments and diseases. People have passed
down their own family recipes for herbal remedies from
generation to generation. Much of the knowledge we have today
about herbs and herbal medicine originally derived from the
American Indians. Hippocrates, the Father of medicine used
herbs and different combinations of herbs in his medical
practices.
A lot of the medicines today were originally produced from
herbs, but are now synthetically produced in a lab. I dont know
about you, but I much rather treat my illnesses with natural
ingredients rather than have them created in a lab. This
herbal medicine cabinet series will walk you through the basics
of herbal remedies. We will talk about the different methods of
using herbs such as: teas, tinctures, salves, and others. Once we
lay down the basics of using herbs we will go into more detail
about each method in particular.
We dont want to just list a bunch of recipes for you. We
want to teach you the why and how in regards to applying the
remedies to different ailments you may experience. We want to
start off by giving you a run-down of several terms you will see
in this herbal medicine cabinet series.

Infusions basically these are teas made

from the leaves or flowers of different
herbs.
Decoction This is a tea like the infusion,
but it is made from the roots and bark of
the herb instead of the leaves and flowers.
Waters these are infusions made to drink
in cold form like for sports drinks.
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Capsules These are a convenient way to

use herbs if you do not like the Infusions.
They are more or less taking the herb in a
pill form.
Tinctures This is the process of
extracting the herb properties into vinegar
or alcohol.
Oils this is also an extraction like with
the tincture only it is extracted into oil
instead.
Salves these are a combination of
ingredients into an ointment used locally
to promote healing.
Poultice This is basically a warm or cold
compress made from herbs and applied
locally to the area of the ailment you are
treating.

Here at Stinnett Family Farms we dont claim to be

doctors or any other healthcare professionals. We will not
diagnose or prescribe anything for any ailments. We only
strive to offer you with great information that is readily
available in a multitude of resources. We provide quality
information and you are free to use it how you see fit.
Please consult your physician before attempting herbal
remedies, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.
We hope this introduction has given you a good
overview into the world of herbal remedies. The rest of this
guide will break down the previously mentioned methods
and go into more detail about how to make them as well as
explain how they can be applied to different ailments. We
hope you find this guide helpful in your herbal remedy
journey.

Table Of Contents
Table Of Contents............................................................4
Chapter 1: Infusions........................................................6
Herbal Teas.........................................................................6
Peppermint.........................................................................6
Chamomile.........................................................................7
Lemon Balm........................................................................7
Rosemary...........................................................................8

Chapter 2: Decoction.....................................................10
What Is A Decoction?............................................................10
Ginger.............................................................................10
Dandelion.........................................................................11
Parsley.............................................................................11
Rosehips...........................................................................12

Chapter 3: Waters..........................................................13
Herbal Water Infusion..........................................................13
Peony..............................................................................13
Cucumber, Lemon, Cilantro...................................................14
Mandarin Basil...................................................................14

Chapter 4: Capsules.......................................................15
How To Make Herb Capsules...................................................15
Turmeric..........................................................................15
St Johns wort....................................................................15
Feverfew..........................................................................16
Ginseng............................................................................16
Valerian...........................................................................16

Chapter 5: Tinctures......................................................17
How Do You Make Tinctures?..................................................17
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Cayenne...........................................................................18
Cinnamon.........................................................................18
Garlic..............................................................................18

Chapter 6: Salves..........................................................20
What Is Salve?....................................................................20
Headache Relief.................................................................20
Burn Ointment...................................................................21
Rash & Bug Bites.................................................................22
Muscle & Joint Pain Relief.....................................................22

Chapter 1: Infusions
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are used in a multitude of
ways for a variety of common ailments like:
cold & cough, nausea, insomnia, and more.
The herbal teas we are going to discuss in
this chapter are easily brewed from herbs
right out of the home garden.

Peppermint
Peppermint grows best in moist, rich soil and prefers half to
full sun. Easily propagate peppermint from cuttings or by
dividing and repotting the clumps of
this wonderfully aromatic herb. Herbs
of the mint variety tend to be invasive
so it might do better to plant them in
large pots or raised beds.
When harvesting your peppermint
plants the leaves are the part you will
actually be using.
Peppermint has a calming effect on the stomach and can be
used for ailments like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, bloating,
and abdominal pain. The essential oils, made from the
peppermint plant, can be rubbed on sore muscles and joints for
pain relief. Try massaging it into your temple to ease headaches
as well.

RECIPE:
1 CUP boiling water
1 TBSP dried peppermint leaves
Honey or Brown Sugar (optional) to sweeten
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Pour the water over the peppermint leaves and steep for about
10 minutes. This tea is best used up to 3 times per day after
meals to relieve stomach issues. The menthol in this herb is not
recommended for infants or small children.

Chamomile
Chamomile can either be grown from seed, or from taking
cuttings. This herb can also be propagated by
dividing the roots into different plants.
To harvest Chamomile gather the flowers
when they are fully open. Some varieties will
produce more flowers after harvest. Dry the
flowers and store in an air tight container
Chamomile has a sedative effect and is
great when used for insomnia. Women often use
this herb to relieve menstrual cramps. Chamomile is a very
gentle acting herb making it safe for children to use as well.

RECIPE:
1 CUP boiling water
1 TSP dried chamomile flowers
Honey or Brown Sugar (optional) to sweeten
Pour the water over the flowers and steep for 10 minutes in
order to get the most use out of the chamomile.

Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm is very easy to grow in the home garden. This
herb prefers to be in full sun with moist but well drained soil.
Lemon Balm grows well in pots and raised
beds. Propagate this perennial herb from
seed or by taking cuttings from existing
plants.
To harvest Lemon Balm, cut the
foliage in the quantity you desire. Secure
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the branches together and hang upside down to dry out of direct
sunlight in a well ventilated area. Strip the dried leaves and
store them in air tight containers.
Lemon Balm has a mood-enhancing effect when consumed.
Use the tea for insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, and depression.
It can also be used to treat nausea and gas.

RECIPE:
1 CUP boiling water
1-2 TSP Dried Lemon Balm
Pour the boiling water over the dried lemon balm, cover, and
steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Covering the tea prevents the loss of
all the amazing essential oils lemon balm has to offer. Sweet to
taste with lemon juice or honey.

Rosemary
Rosemary is used to stimulate the nerves. For this reason
Rosemary tea is good for circulation. It is also used to treat
depression and fatigue. If you are having
problems remembering things or concentrating
use this tea to help. Rosemary tea is also used
to help relax your muscles.
Propagating rosemary is best accomplished
by taking cuttings. Rosemary does not start
well from seed. Rosemary plants do well when
clipped and shaped.
Harvesting rosemary is quite easy. Take
clippings and air dry in a well ventilated area. After drying strip
the leaves and store in air tight containers.

RECIPE:
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1 CUP boiling water

1 TSP dried rosemary
1.5 TSP Honey
Pour the boiling water over the dried rosemary leaves and steep
for 5 to 10 minutes. Add honey to sweeten and enjoy your
rosemary tea!
We hope you have enjoyed this chapter on infusions, or
herbal teas. There are amazing benefits when it comes to
using herbs to treat your common ailments. Keep reading for
even more great information!

Chapter 2: Decoction
What Is A Decoction?
In this chapter we are going to discuss decoctions. A
decoction is an herbal tea. While herbal teas use the leaves and
flowers of the herb plant, decoctions use the roots and bark.
Also, instead of steeping the herb in hot water like with the
teas, you will be boiling the roots and bark. This ensures you pull
out all of the beneficial healing properties of the herbs.
For long term treatments it is recommended to consume
three cups per day for chronic ailments. Short term treatments
recommend up to six cups per day over a shorter period of time
for more acute ailments.
To make a decoction you want to start with grinding your
dried herb into a powder. Use roughly 1 to 2 teaspoons of herb
for every 2 cups of water. Place the herb into a saucepan along
with your water and slowly bring it to a boil. Once the water
boils reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for 10 to 15
minutes. Pour the mixture through a strainer into your cup and
enjoy. If you want your decoction to be stronger, let it sit for a
longer period of time before straining.

Ginger
The herb we are going to start with is
Ginger. This herb has many uses when it comes
to herbal remedies. Try ginger if you are
feeling sick to your stomach. Ginger treats
nausea and other symptoms of the stomach
like colic and gas. Ginger is also used to treat
common cold symptoms. Women often use it
to relieve menstrual cramps. Arthritis and
rheumatism are common ailments especially in the elderly and
can be treated with this amazing herb. If you dont plan to grow
ginger yourself you can easily find it online through different
herbal retail outlets.
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Dandelion
Dandelion is used in regards to the health of
the liver and kidneys. This plant has a diuretic
effect on the urinary system and can help
reduce fluid retention and cleanse your urinary
tract.
While common medications for fluid
retention can often times lower potassium
levels in the body, Dandelion contains high
levels of potassium and can help replenish levels with increased
urination.
When using the root of the dandelion plant in a decoction it
can provide a laxative effect and improve a sluggish digestive
system.

Parsley
While this herb is great to use
in the kitchen, the medicinal
aspects make it even better.
Parsley root is used to treat a
variety of infections. First and
foremost it treats kidney and
urinary tract infections.
Parsley is also good to use for
fluid retention, joint issues like arthritis, and inflammatory
conditions like gout. It also helps to calm your stomach.

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Rosehips
Rosehips are loaded with vitamin C
and can be used to treat colds and flu.
Research shows that Rosehips can also
reduce the pain and stiffness associated
with osteoarthritis.
According to
www.permaculture.co.uk, rosehips
contain 20 to 60 times as much Vitamin C as oranges.
Other uses for rosehips include treating the urinary tract, relieve
menstrual cramps, and strengthen body tissues especially in the vascular
system.

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Chapter 3: Waters
Herbal Water Infusion
Herb waters are made by infusing the
herbs into the water. To make herb water
simply place your herbs or herb/fruit
combinations into a pitcher of water and
let it stand. The longer you allow the
infusion to take place the more flavorful
your herb water will be. You can also mix
fruits like blueberries and strawberries or citrus like lemon and
orange to your herb water for even more amazingly refreshing
flavors.
Herb water can be made with most any herbs. If you are
looking to help with a particular ailment infuse some water with
the herbs that are used in the treatment. If the herb water
doesnt taste very good add some lemon or fruit to the mix for
flavor.

Peony
Peony is used by women to strengthen the
reproductive system and help regulate the
menstrual cycle. It is also used to relieve
menstrual cramps as well.
The white peony flowers can also be used to
help relax your muscles resulting in the
possibility of lowering blood pressure and
improving circulation in the body. Peony has also
been used to treat angina (chest pain) and improve your memory
and concentration.

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Cucumber, Lemon, Cilantro

By combining cucumber, lemon, and cilantro, you
can create a wonderfully refreshing water infusion.
The cilantro helps stimulate your appetite. It can
also be used to help with indigestion, gas, and
abdominal distention.

Mandarin Basil
Basil is one of the most widely used herbs.
It is easily grown in the home garden or can be
found in most grocery stores. Basil is used to
help calm nervousness. Research shows that
Basil has a hypoglycemic effect which makes it
useful in managing diabetes. Basil is also
known to have an anti allergic effect which is great for treating
hay fever and asthma.
Make an herb water infusion with Basil and add some
mandarin oranges to boost the wonderful flavor.

Be sure to place your infused water in the refrigerator for

storage. You can leave it on the counter for several hours
to help with the infusion process, but then put it into the
refrigerator.

Also once you drink some of the water replace it with

new water and allow it to infuse again. The flavors will
not be as strong as the initial infusion but will still taste
great.

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Chapter 4: Capsules
How To Make Herb Capsules
So far we have discussed several different ways to use herbs
with teas and infusions. I know some people do not like the taste
of herbs so this chapter is for you.
In this chapter we are going to discuss making your own herb
capsules. There are lots of places to order empty capsules and
capsule machines online. Find one that works for you and your
budget.
Herb capsules are created using dried and powdered herbs.
Put the herb powder of your choice into the capsule and store
them in an air tight container.

Turmeric
Turmeric has been used medicinally for
centuries. The Chinese used it as a blood
purifier. It is also used for arthritis,
psoriasis, and digestive disorders.
Scientists say that turmeric has been
used to reduce cholesterol levels, and
reduce the risk of blocked arteries.

St Johns wort
St. Johns wort is used to treat nerve pain
like sciatica. It is also used to treat anxiety
and depression. St. Johns wort is also
suggested to treat womens mood disorders
associated with menstrual cramping and
menopause.

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Feverfew
Feverfew is known to have antiinflammatory effects and is used by many as
a treatment for migraine headaches.
Feverfew is easily propagated in the home
garden.

Ginseng
This herb is used to enhance mental
function, memory, and performance during
times of fatigue and exhaustion. Ginseng is
also great for treating respiratory
infections, and has a hypoglycemic effect
that helps lower blood sugar. Older adults use Ginseng to help
improve sexual energy.

Valerian
This herb has been used for decades to treat
insomnia and to aide in relaxation. Valerian has
also been known to treat symptoms of stress
and anxiety. Valerians calming effect on muscles
make it great in the treatment of menstrual
cramps, headaches, and stomach cramps.

This is only a preview of the benefits and uses for herbs in

capsule form. Most herbs discussed previously in this book are
also great to use in capsules. What herbs do you use to treat
common ailments? We would love to hear from you and possibly
include you in a blog post to help our readers. Email us at
stinnettfamilyfarms@gmail.com we would love to hear from you!
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Chapter 5: Tinctures
How Do You Make Tinctures?
Tinctures are alcohol based herbal medicines. The benefits
of the herbs are extracted into alcohol and then consumed to
treat your ailments.
The first step in making
tinctures is to obtain your
alcohol. Whiskey, brandy,
rum, and vodka are generally
used, but vodka is the most
widely used due to it being
clear and generally
flavorless. You want your
alcohol to be at least 80
proof.
Next you need a
container to store your tincture. Be sure to use a glass container
so the reaction of the alcohol and herbs doesnt cause
breakdown of the container over time.
Next comes the part where you will actually mix your
ingredients. A good rule of thumb is to add enough freshly
chopped herbs to fill your container and then cover completely
with whichever alcohol you have chosen.
Once you have added your ingredients you will want to stir
gently to make sure you remove any air bubbles that have
formed. Once the bubbles are removed place the lid onto your
container and make sure you label the contents. Put the
container in a dark, cool area like a cabinet or closet.
You want to take the tincture out everyday and give it a
good shake to keep the contents blended well. Do this for at
least 14 days.
Once your tincture is finished steeping it is time to strain
your tincture. Pour the mixture through cheesecloth to remove
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any of the solid plant material. Be sure to squeeze out any

excess liquid from the remaining plant material.
After straining your tincture you want to place it into
whatever storage container you will be using. Alcohol is a
preservative and can safely be stored for about 5 years.

Cayenne
Cayenne is a widely used medicinal item. It is used to treat
many things both inside and outside the body.
Use cayenne to treat ulcers, sore
throats, and diarrhea. You can also use it
to treat cold and flu symptoms and break
down any congestion you may be feeling.
Cayenne is also used in the prevention of
migraine headaches and for the health of
your heart.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been used for its medicinal properties for
centuries. Cinnamon is used for the health
of your heart because it helps lower
cholesterol and triglyceride levels and
lower blood pressure. Cinnamon also has an
anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
Cinnamon has also been known for its
hypoglycemic effects and lowering of blood
sugar.

Garlic
Garlic is also used in a wide variety of
treatments. Garlic is a powerful natural
antibiotic. It can be used to treat infections in
the lungs like coughs and colds as well as
gastrointestinal infections. Garlic has also been
known to reduce the risk of forming blood clots.
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We hope you have found this chapter on tinctures useful in

building your homestead medicine cabinet. If you have ideas for
things to add please email us at stinnettfamilyfarms@gmail.com
we look forward to hearing from you!

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Chapter 6: Salves
What Is Salve?
Have you ever looked up the definition of salve? Wikipedia
says it is a medical ointment used to soothe the surface of the
body. Dictionary.com says it is a medicinal ointment for
healing or relieving wounds and sores. Thefreedictionary.com
says it is an analgesic or medicinal ointment. I say that all of
these are correct. Salves have many uses which include soothing
the surface of the body, healing wounds, and relieving pain. In
this chapter we are going to share some of the great recipes you
can easily make and use on your homestead.

Headache Relief
The first recipe we want to share is one that can help relieve
headaches. The peppermint and lavender oils in this recipe are
amazing together.
6 drops peppermint essential oil
6 drops lavender essential oil
1 TBSP beeswax
6 TBSP coconut oil
This recipe is used to make a really firm form of the salve. If
you want a softer, creamier version just leave out the beeswax.
Step 1: Heat the beeswax in a double boiler. Use low heat so
you dont scorch the wax.
Step 2: Add the coconut oil to the double boiler and allow
the oil to melt as well.
Step 3: Now is the time to add your essential oils. Be sure to
lower the heat first. Stir everything together until it is well
blended.
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Step 4: Once everything is blended, immediately pour the

mixture into your storage containers because it will solidify
quickly.
Easy as that you have your very own headache relief.
Massage the salve into your temples and I promise you will not
be sorry!

Burn Ointment
The next recipe is an ointment we use for minor burns. Aloe,
honey, and coconut oil work great together to relieve the pain.
4 TBSP honey
6 TBSP coconut oil
6 TBSP Aloe Vera
If you are lucky you might produce some of these ingredients
yourself right on your homestead. If you have beehives you can
get raw honey which is much better than store bought honey
when it comes to making salves. Aloe Vera is also great to have
and easy to grow on your homestead.
Step 1: Mix all of the ingredients together. You can either
mix by hand or use your handheld mixer for this task.
Step 2: Pour your mixture into whatever storage container
you choose.
With this recipe you can forget having to pay for over priced,
over-the-counter medications.

Rash & Bug Bites

When it comes to bug bites or minor rashes nothing is worse
than the itch especially when it has to do with your children.
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With this anti-itch cream you are sure to enjoy your outdoor
activities more!
1/3 CUP baking soda
2 TBSP aloe vera gel
1 TBSP coconut oil
1 TSP water
5 DROPS mint essential oil
Step 1: Add the baking soda to the bowl you are going to use in order to
mix your cream. This is what actually takes out the itch!
Step 2: Stir in the aloe vera gel and the coconut oil. The aloe vera
soothes the skin. Stir until the ingredients are mixed well.
Step 3: Add the coconut oil and water. The coconut oil adds a bit of
creaminess to your cream.
Step 4: Add your essential oil to the mixture. Stir well until everything is
completely blended together.
Step 5: Pour your mixture into the storage container you plan to use.

Muscle & Joint Pain Relief

There are a number of variations to the recipe for a great
Muscle rub cream. People all over the world use all kinds of
ingredients from Menthol crystals to cayenne powder. While I am
sure you could find a thousand different recipes to try if you do
a Google search, this is the recipe we want to share with you.
1 CUP coconut oil
3 TSP beeswax
10 drops camphor oil
10 drops peppermint oil
10 drops eucalyptus oil
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Step 1: Melt your beeswax in a double boiler. Once the

beeswax is melted add the coconut oil. Stir until the mixture is
well blended.
Step 2: Add your camphor, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils
to the oil mixture.
Step 3: Remove from heat and immediately pour into the
storage container of your choice.

We hope you have enjoyed the home remedy

recipes we have shared with you in this You Can
Homestead series edition. Herbal remedies and herbal
medicine are the way our forefathers started out in the
world of healing. Many of Gods natural offerings can
heal the ailments on your homestead.
If you are interested in more homesteading how-tos
visit us at www.stinnettfamilyfarms.com
Thank you for following along with the You can
Homestead series of eBooks and as always..

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