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 hether we're creating a compound (multi-herb) formula or simple(single herb) preparation, it's best to decide before hand what our unit of measure will be. It's preferable to use weight rather than volume. For instance, an ounce of leaves takes up much more space then say, an ounce of stems, though they weigh the same. A common kitchen scale should suffice, one with a built in container is ideal. It should have single ounce increments and go up to 1- 2 pounds.
Simples
 Simpling, using a single herb in a preparation, is a probably the oldest tradition of medicinal herb-crafting. Using a single herb, Peppermint for upset stomach, Chamomile for restlessness, Sandalwood in incense or oil for calming, Rosemary for metal clarity are all part of the simplers art. It is a craft of "less is more". There are times when a complex formula is called for, however at other times a single herb is the best recourse. It's all too easy to become glamoured by complex formulation, forgetting the unique sophitication of individual plants.
The Art of Formulation
For those times in healing when a formula is called for, there are a few simple guidelines to follow.
- Knowing each of the herbs we are using in the blend; how they taste, if for an herbal tea; what their medicinal properties are; what purpose they serve in the formula.
- Not getting carried away using too many herbs in the formula. If we can effect the desired result using three then why use ten?
- In herbal teas, avoiding mixing root/bark/seed with flowers and leaves as each requires different methods of preparations. See
Preparations
When blending herbs being acutely aware of the synergistic action the herbs have upon each other, the disease or issue being addressed and the person for whom the formula is being prepared.
The following technique follows a model of three Cornerstones. Within each Cornerstone a variety of herbs can be used according to attribute and action.
 First Cornerstone: Specific/Primary Herb.
This herb or herbs govern the formula. They work directly, specifically on the problem and comprise upwards of 70% of the formula. Almost any herb can occupy this prominent and primary position, the choice of herbs depends on the focus of the formula. Keywords to describe their function: direct, specific, focus, primary, governor, head.
Second Cornerstone: Supportive and Nourishing herbs.
This cornerstone supports the Primary herbs. They build, tone and fortify the body or psyche being worked on by the formula and act in a supportive role to the other herbs. They also have a buffering action, and serve to smooth the sometimes rough or abrasive nature of the primary herbs. Depending on the formula, the Second Cornerstone comprises about 15 - 20% of the total herbs used. Keywords to describe their function: buffers, soother, nourishers, builders, toners.
Third Cornerstone: Catalyst and Action Herbs.
These herbs not only activate the body system or aspect of the work but they also activate the other herbs in the formula. In one way or another they serve to activate, stimulate or unblock energies. These herbs generally comprise 10 - 15% of the formula. Keywords to describe their function: catalyst, movers, energizers, stimulant, eliminators, activators.
A good formula will have herbs representing all three Cornerstones, each of the herbs in the formula will be compatible and supportive, not only with each other but specific to the overall action of the formula.
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