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  4. /Yerba Santa

Yerba Santa

Eriodictyon californicum

Evidence: TFamily: Boraginaceae

A California/Southwest herb used by indigenous peoples for respiratory support, asthma, and as a pleasant-tasting carrier for bitter medicines.

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Safety Quick Reference

Pregnancyinsufficient data
Breastfeedinginsufficient data
Pediatricinsufficient data
Contraindications: None well established.
Interactions: Few known interactions.

Drug & Medication Interactions

If you take any medications, review these interactions carefully.

Known Interactions

Few known interactions.

Contraindications

None well established.

Check Your Medications Against This Herb

Side Effects

Generally well tolerated. Pleasant resinous taste.

How to Prepare Yerba Santa

T
Herbal Tea (Infusion)Easy · 10-15 minutes

Equipment

Kettle or pot, Mug or teapot, Strainer or tea infuser, Measuring spoon

Instructions

  1. 1Bring fresh water to a rolling boil (200-212°F / 93-100°C).
  2. 2Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb (or 1 tablespoon fresh) per 8 oz cup into your strainer or infuser.
  3. 3Pour hot water over the herbs and cover to prevent volatile oils from escaping.
  4. 4Steep for 10-15 minutes for medicinal strength (5 minutes for a lighter, everyday tea).

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The information on Healix Natural Solutions is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a licensed healthcare provider.
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  • 5Remove the strainer/herbs. Add honey, lemon, or other herbs to taste if desired.
  • 6Drink 1-3 cups daily, or as directed by a qualified herbalist.
  • Tips

    • • Covering while steeping is important — it traps beneficial volatile compounds.
    • • Leaves and flowers generally need 10-15 minutes; roots and bark need a decoction instead.
    • • Make larger batches and refrigerate for up to 48 hours.

    Start with a small amount to check for any sensitivity. Not all herbs are suitable for tea preparation — some require alcohol extraction (tincture) for full potency.

    Drink fresh or refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Dried herbs should be stored in airtight containers away from light.

    T
    Alcohol TinctureModerate · 4-6 weeks (passive)

    Equipment

    Glass mason jar with lid, High-proof alcohol (80-100 proof vodka), Measuring cup, Cheesecloth or fine strainer, Dark glass dropper bottles, Labels

    Instructions

    1. 1Fill a clean mason jar 1/3 to 1/2 full with dried herb (or 2/3 full with fresh herb).
    2. 2Pour 80-proof (40%) vodka over the herbs until the jar is full, covering herbs by at least 2 inches.
    3. 3Seal tightly and label with the herb name, alcohol type, and date.
    4. 4Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every day or two.
    5. 5After 4-6 weeks, strain through cheesecloth into a clean bowl, squeezing out all liquid.
    6. 6Pour the finished tincture into dark glass dropper bottles. Label with herb, date, and menstruum.
    7. 7Standard adult dose is typically 30-60 drops (1-2 dropperfuls) in a small amount of water, 2-3 times daily.

    Tips

    • • Use at least 80-proof (40%) alcohol — this extracts both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds.
    • • For resins and tough roots, use 100-proof (50%) or higher.
    • • Fresh plant tinctures use a higher ratio of alcohol to prevent spoilage from plant moisture.

    Tinctures are concentrated — follow dosing guidelines carefully. Not suitable for those avoiding alcohol (use glycerites instead). Some herbs are only safe as tinctures in very small doses.

    Alcohol tinctures last 3-5 years or more when stored properly in dark glass away from heat and light.