FORMULATION OF HERBA BUENA:

Preparing the Decoction:

• Fresh leaves are washed first and then chopped coarsely, while air-dried leaves are crushed.Condition of Leaves(crushed) (chopped)
  

• Age of Patient Dried Fresh: Adult 4 tbsp 6 tbsp, 7-12 years 2 tbsp 3 tbsp

• After you have identified how much leaves to use, boil the leaves in 2 glasses-of water for at least 15 minutes. This boiled mixture is called "decoction". Divide the decoction into two parts and take one part every three hours 

Boiling the Mixture:

• Use only enamelled container or claypot ("palayok"), never an aluminum pot.

• A standard glass or cup should contain 240 ml or 8 fluid ounces of water. This measurement is the same as the content of a bottle of regular-size Pepsi or Coke.

• Mix leaves in water before placing on fire.

• As soon as the mixture boils, uncover the pot and let boil continuously for 15 minutes. Remember that the mixture should boil uncovered. Strain and let cool. You now have what is called a "decoction". For headache, toothache, or arthritis take one-half (1/2) glass (standard glass or cup) of decoction every three hours, as needed.

Storing the Decoction:

• For convenience, .you may 'prepare enough decoction that you can use for several days. Simply adjust the amount of leaves to use according to the amount of water you will boil.

• When kept in thermo pot ("termos") the decoction will last for three days without losing its efficacy.

• When kept in refrigerator the decoction will last up to four days without losing its efficacy.

• Keep in mind, however, that whether kept in thermo pot or refrigerated the decoction must not be taken anymore when its color has changed or when it has grown molds or fungus.