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There are many different forms in which herbal remedies can be prescribed and dispensed. The most common forms are:

Tinctures: Most herbal medicines are dispensed in tincture form and taken internally. An alcohol-water mixture is used to extract a wide range of plant constituents from the plant, or plant part: the percentage alcohol influences the exact constituents present in the extract. Tinctures are taken orally: for adults the usual dosage is 5ml of tincture three times a day.

Teas: Herbal teas provide an additional or alternative form for dispensing herbal medicine. In most cases, teas are made from the cut, dried plant, but fresh teas are also used. Typically, 2 heaped teaspoons of the blended tea is covered with boiling water and left to infuse for 15 minutes before drinking. It is best to use a teapot or to cover the cup whilst the tea infuses to retain the volatile constituents.

Capsules: Capsules provide a convenient way of giving powdered herbs and avoid any issues with taste and texture. They also have the advantage of containing all the constituents from the plant, not just those that are extracted in alcohol or water. All capsules made and/or supplied by Brookfield Herbal are vegetarian.

Creams and ointments: Creams and ointments can be used for topical effect particularly useful in skin conditions and also for local, deeper effect e.g. on muscles and joints. Creams are lighter applications, considered more cooling than ointments and so more suitable for inflammed, hot and weepy skin conditions. On the other hand, ointments are heavier, greasier applications which means they remain on the skin longer to provide a soothing, protective layer which keeps body heat and water in, and so more suitable for deep aches and joint pain.