Summer Savory - Satureja hortensis (Labiatae)
(bean herb)
Description: Hairy annual with tough fragrant stems that grow up to 18 in. Bears long green leaves that are leathery and pointed and pink or white flowers in late summer.
Uses: Use leaves gathered before flowering fresh or dried in the shade. Use flowering shoots fresh or dried. Infusion treats gastric problems and indigestion. Tea is tonic. Put flowering shoots between clothing to repel moths.
Infusion: Used to prepare more delicate parts of plants. 3 cups of water to 1 ounce dry herb or 1½ ounce of fresh herbs; pour the freshly boiled water over herbs in a pot, cover the pot and let the herbs steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and serve. Refrigerate unused portions, lasts up to 24 hours.
Tincture: A tincture is a good solution for long term treatment as will store for up to two years. 8 ounces of dried herb, 1½ cups of alcohol (grain alcohol like Everclear), and 4 cups of water; Chop your herbs up finely and put them in a glass jar with a good tight fitting lid. Pour the liquid over the herbs and tighten the lid. Keep the jar in a warm, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake the jar every two days. After the two weeks, strain the liquid off through cheesecloth into a clean colored glass jar and store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Medicinal uses: gastric upsets, indigestion, loss of appetite, tonic
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