Herbal preparations External use
Compress
How herbs have been prepared at home for generations.
A compress is a cloth soaked in a hot herbal infusion or decoction and held against the skin. It is more concentrated than a wash, and the heat does part of the work by opening the skin to the herb. Compresses are used for bruises and sprains, aching muscles, skin that is inflamed or itchy, minor wounds, and fungal skin complaints, with the herb chosen to suit: calendula, chamomile, yarrow, comfrey leaf or thyme.