Cephalic Decoction

Tradition:

Western

Source / Author:

The Royal Pharmacopoeia [of France], Moses Charras, 1678

Herb Name Valerian Orris Peony root Calamus Mistletoe Betony flower Sage flower Marjoram Calamint Germander Rue seed Peony seed Juniper Berries Flowers of Rosemary Cassidonie Lavender Lily of the Valley

Latin Valeriana officinalis Iris germanica Peonia officinalis Acorus calamus Viscum alba Betonica officinalis Salvia officinalis Oreganum marjorana Calamintha officinalis Teucrium chamaedrys Ruta graveolens Peonia officinalis Juniperus communis Rosmarinus officinalis Helichrysum stoechas Lavendula officinalis Convallaria majalis Amount 1⁄2 oz. ea. 1 handful ea. 2 drams ea. 1 pugil ea.

Preparation:

Decoct in 6 lbs. of Fountain Water down to a quarter: Bruise all the roots, the Mistletoe, and put them in a pot with their water, cover and decoct over a gentle fire for 15 minutes; next add the herbs, cover, and boil gently for another 15 minutes, then add the berries and seeds, decoct a bit longer, then add the flowers and remove from the heat. Strain when half cool.
Some added 1 oz. of Raw Tartar was added at the beginning to fix some of the Volatiles; otherwise, the aromatics are added later in the decocting.

Function:

Calms Wind, regulates Qi and Blood, clears Damp and Phlegm, opens Orifices, settles Spasms

Use:

1. Headaches from Wind and Phlegm, or associated with Blood and Qi obstruction
2. Epilepsy
3. Dizziness
4. Vertigo
5. Other diseases of the Head associated with Wind and Phlegm, or Blood and Qi obstruction

Dose:

2–4 oz.

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

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