Decoctio Communis
Common Decoction

Tradition:

Western

Source / Author:

Pharmacopoeia Augustana

Herb Name Prunes Licorice Currants Aniseed Fennel seed Borage flowers Bugloss flowers

Latin Prunus domestica Glycyrrhiza glabra Ribes nigrum Pimpinella anisum Foeniculum vulgare Borago officinalis Anchusa officinalis Amount 12 1⁄2 ounce ea. 1 1⁄2 drams ea.

Preparation:

Seethe in 1 quart of water until one-third has been consumed

Function:

Laxative, opens Obstructions

Use:

1. useful to keep the body open, being a gentle Laxative;
2. useful in Chronic Constipation or Constipation in the old or weak;
3. suitable for mild digestive irritations;
4. good after mild Trauma and Bruising;
5. Hernias;
6. good for chronic Illness;
7. also used as a vehicle for stronger purgative medicines

Dose:

2–4 ounces, up to 6 ounces

Cautions:

None noted

Modifications:

1. For Trauma and Bruising, take with a little Rhubarb powder, and/or Syrup of Rose Solutive.

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