How to Take an Herb

Times of administration.
– Empty stomach: herbs taken on an empty stomach will have a stronger effect. This is the preferred time for those who have a watery condition with mucus and for detoxification.
– Before Meals: herbs taken before meals will be more effective in treating nervous diseases, toning the intestines and reducing fat.
– After Meals: herbs taken after meals will treat gas and indigestion and can also help prevent mucus.
– Mixed with Food: herbs mixed with food are best as a tonic and for weak individuals.
– Between Meals: herbs are best taken between meals by people with urinary and nervous disorders.

Vehicles.
Anupana is a term in Ayurveda that describes a particular substance used as a carrier. The primary vehicles used are cold and warm water, honey, butter, ghee, sugar, milk, and other herbs, that have a strong carrying property.
When treating a Vata, or nervous condition, herbs are best mixed with sesame or other oils.
When treating a Pitta or fire condition, herbs are taken with Ghee (clarified butter) or butter, following by warm water.
When treating a Kapha or mucous condition, it usually is best to take the herbs with honey.
Often a combination of herbs, such as Triphala, or Trikatu is added as a vehicle to a herbal formula.

Chinese herbalism has a similar concept, adding certain herbs to a formula to carry the action of the other herb to the area of the body to be treated.

See more about herbs in: The Nature of Herbs in Ayurvedic and Chinese Systems; and For How Long Should I Take an Herbal Remedy?

TODAY’S TIP: Ghee and honey taken in equal amounts (by weight) are considered to be toxic when taken for a long period of time. They work perfect together when used in unequal proportions making the herbal remedy more food-like.