There are many different ways on preparing herbal formulas. Some are more demanding and time consuming as other.
The way it is done in Beijing with Dr Feng Shi Lun is to soak the herbal formula over a period of an hour and then boil with an open lid for 20 minutes. The amount of water you need depends on the formula and the concentration you will need for the patient’s case. Generally we say for 3 cups for a single dose. Once the boiled herbs are done remove the liquid and drink one hour after breakfast. You will need to add another 3 cups of water and let it soak until the afternoon (at least fro one hour) and boil again for another 20 minutes which will give you the second daily dose taken at least one hour after lunch.
It is best never to take the herbal decoction at night or before bed unless instructed otherwise by your practitioner.
For sensitive patients it is possible to soak the herbs in 6 cups of water intend of 3 and boil for 20 minutes for the decoction. This will give you 2 cups of herbal tea instead of one which will be take one hour after meals. You can repeat the second boiling with the same herbs for the second after letting them soak over night in 6 cups of water.
Note 1: If your formula has toxic herbs like Fu zi you will need to ask your practitioner to receive further instructions for the boiling preparation.
Note 2: All fruit and dates must be cut up before boiling.