Decoction

Solubility & Extraction Notes

Extracts:
• Bitter compounds
• Minerals
• Starches
• Some proteins
Does not extract aromatics well (steam carries them away).

Shelf Life

Refrigerated: 2–3 days.

Safety Notes

Do not decoct mucilage-heavy herbs (slippery elm, marshmallow).

Decoction

Best For

• Burdock root
• Chicory root
• Dandelion root (future)
• Cinnamon bark (Future)
• Hard seeds and berries (Future Entries)

Root-Deep • Earth-Drawn Extraction

Appearance & Character

Produces dark, earthy, rich brews with strong aroma and flavor.

Preparation & Best Practices

• Simmer herbs 20–45 minutes
• Keep pot covered
• Strain thoroughly
• Reduce further for strong preparations

Historical & Cultural Context

A cornerstone of traditional herbalism worldwide.
Used for tonics, broths, and winter medicine.

In the Archive With…

• Burdock
• Chicory

What It Is

A long, slow simmer used to extract the dense, earthy compounds from roots, barks, and berries.

Energetic & Ritual Associations

Earth, winter, ancestry, endurance.