Decoction in Witchcraft: How To Make it & How To Use it

A decoction can be a valid ally to feel good in both your body and your spirit. In this article, you will find all you need to know about this herbal remedy and how to use it.

What is a decoction?

Decoction is a method of extraction of herbal constituents from stems, roots, barks and rhizomes through boiling. The hard plant parts are covered with water, brought to a boil for about 10 minutes and then cooled and strained.

The misconception about decoctions and infusions

Are infusion and decoction are the same thing? No! We often got a bit confused about them and we think they are the same when they are not.

Don’t forget that, choosing the most suitable compound to solve the problem or ailment that you want to eradicate from time to time is not everyone’s job, so it is always better to contact a herbalist.

And a lot also depends on the type of drink. Infusion or decoction, which is better to prepare?

What is an infusion, and how is it prepared?

The infusion is the simplest and quickest way to extract the active ingredients of the most delicate parts of plants, such as flowers and leaves.

To prepare it, you need to bring the water to the boil and, once removed from the heat, pour it over the herbs, previously chopped and chopped. Then it can be filtered and drunk immediately, or poured into a ceramic or glass container with a lid, where it can be stored for no more than a day, because the active ingredients are volatile and evaporate.

Depending on the maceration time, you will obtain an aromatic or therapeutic drink. In the first case, 5 minutes of infusion is enough, in the second up to 20 minutes.

The quantity is also linked to the intended use, but in general, it ranges from around 15 grams (1 tablespoon) of dried ingredients to 35 grams (a bit less than 2.5 tablespoons), if they are fresh, per cup (230 ml of water).

It is also recommended not to use more than five herbs at a time, as they may interact unfavorably.

The aromatic herbs that can generally be prepared in infusion are mint, lemon balm, verbena, elderberry, mugwort and thyme.

And how is the decoction made?

Not to be confused with the infusion is the decoction. In this case, the toughest parts of medicinal plants are used, such as the roots, hard seeds and bark.

The components should be placed in a pan with cold water, which should be brought to the boil.

Depending on the plants chosen – the quantity is similar to those previously indicated for the infusion – you need to let everything simmer on a low heat for 10 to 30 minutes and then let it rest for another 10 minutes, just long enough for it to cool.

The decoction can be used both internally and externally, such as in the preparation of compresses, but in this case the flowers and leaves are usually used. Among the most popular decoctions we remember that of ginger, excellent for treating sore throats and colds, and that of parsley, ideal for purifying the kidneys.

How to use a decoction in magick?

Before you begin, clearly define the purpose of your decoction. Are you creating a protection potion, a love potion, or a healing brew? Hold this intention in your mind throughout the process.

Select the herbs and plants that align with your intention. Research their magical properties to ensure they are appropriate for your goal.

Here are a few ideas for you to consider about the best herbs:

• Mugwort: Enhances psychic vision, dream work, and provides spiritual protection.
• Sage: Purifies, protects, and increases wisdom.
• Rosemary: Enhances memory, offers protection, and promotes healing.
• Lavender: Brings peace, attracts love, and purifies spaces.
• Dandelion Root: Aids in divination, spirit communication, and fulfills wishes.
• Cinnamon: Attracts prosperity, offers protection, and ignites passion.
• Peppermint: Promotes healing, purifies, and attracts love.
• Ginger: Increases power, attracts success, and stimulates love.
• Bay Leaf: Provides protection, enhances wisdom, and boosts psychic abilities.
• Angelica Root:  Offers protection, aids in healing, and banishes negative entities.

DIY process

Before using it, cleanse your space with incense or a smudge stick. Light a candle or place crystals around your workspace to enhance the magical atmosphere.

• Anointing: Use the liquid to anoint candles, tools, or yourself.
• Ritual Baths: Add the decoction to a ritual bath.
• Sprays: Pour the decoction into a spray bottle and use it to cleanse and purify your space.
• Offerings: Use it as an offering to deities or spirits.
• Drinking: Some decoctions can be ingested if the ingredients are safe and intended for consumption. Always research and ensure the safety of the herbs you use.

Tips to make it work

• Perform the creation of your decoction during the appropriate moon phase or day of the week that aligns with your intention.
• Chant mantras or prayers while preparing the decoction to enhance the energy around it
• Consider the planetary and elemental correspondences of the herbs and incorporate those elements into your ritual.

Conclusion

By combining the physical process of making a decoction with focused intention and magical correspondences, you can create a powerful tool for your magical practice.