Infusions are simply like making a tea. Since you use only the delicate parts of the plants, such as flowers, leaves or seeds, you need to only let it steep for 10 or 15 minutes and strain. Use one to two teaspoons of dried herb to each cup of water. When using seeds such as fennel or anise, it's helpful to gently bruise them first with a mortar and pestle to release the essential oils.

Decoctions use the tougher parts of the plants, such as the root and bark. So you boil the herbal parts in water, rather than steep them. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes. Use one to two teaspoons of dried herb to each cup of water.