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How to make an Herbal Electuary

A herbal electuary is a powdered herb mixed with honey or glycerine into a paste. The texture can vary according to the proportion of herbs to honey. For a stiff paste use more herbs and less honey. For a runny paste use less herbs and more honey. You can use a single herb or multiple herbs.

You can customize your electuaries to suit your herbal preferences and personal medical needs, preparing them for colds and flu, coughs and sore throats, for rashes and skin irritations. They can be taken daily and even used as nightcaps. With time and practice you will be able to improve the taste and texture to achieve a pleasant result every time.

As both dried herbs and honey have a long shelf life, electuaries will keep indefinitely if stored in a tightly capped, dark glass jar in a dark, cool place. Do not refrigerate and do not give an electuary to children under one-year old.

Before taking an electuary, check with your doctor if you have a medical condition, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or taking prescribed medication.