Want to learn how to make horse chestnut decoction and its medicinal uses? Continue reading and find out.
Research shows that all parts of the horse chestnut have cleansing, hemostatic, healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. They increase blood flow, improve capillary tone, reduce excess fluid in tissues, and soothe the skin. Additionally, the horse chestnut bark, flowers, and young leaves protect against ultraviolet radiation. But before we jump to the recipe, here is how to harvest horse chestnut first.
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How to Harvest Horse Chestnuts
Autumn is the season for harvesting horse chestnuts (Aesculus hippocastanum). Simply pick them up from the ground, but be sure to select only healthy ones, avoiding any that are bruised or soft. After removing their green husks, spread the chestnuts in a thick 10-15 cm layer in a well-ventilated space to dry for three weeks. During this time, turn them occasionally to prevent mold. You can also dry them artificially in the oven. Keep them at 40°C for one hour, then increase the temperature to 60°C to finish drying. Once they’re dry and crumbly, store them in cloth or paper bags, or prepare them for immediate use.
Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), should not be confused with the red buckeye (Aesculus pavia), whose seeds are toxic due to their hydrocyanic acid content. The difference between the two species is easy to recognize: as the name suggests, the flowers of the red buckeye chestnut are red, and its green fruits lack the spiky husks tipical to the horse chestnut.
How to Make Horse Chestnut Decoction
There are more ways in which you can make the horse chestnut decoction, as you will see, but this is one of the most simple methods. Add two tablespoons of dried, crushed chestnuts to a cup of water (250 ml). Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, gradually replacing any water that evaporates. Strain and use. The decoction can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Taking 15-20 drops of this decoction per day is especially effective for treating neurosis, and reducing menstrual pain, and fever.
Other Ways to Use Horse Chestnut Decoction
1. Rheumatism, Sciatica, Herniated Discs, and Spondylosis
Horse chestnut decoction baths are beneficial for those suffering from rheumatism, sciatica, herniated discs, and spondylosis. To prepare the bath, add a concentrated infusion made by boiling 200 g of horse chestnut peels in two liters of water. This is a two-week treatment, with a one-day break between baths, and is recommended 4-5 times a year.
A popular belief says that those who carry horse chestnuts in their pockets are protected from rheumatic pain, lower back pain (lumbosciatica), and stiffness (neuralgia, muscle strains). Many people who have tried this method, which seems more magical than medical, have reported excellent results.
2. Hemorrhoids
Horse chestnut sitz baths are helpful for hemorrhoids. To prepare this bath, make a horse chestnut decoction by boiling 50 g of crushed chestnuts in one liter of water. Strain and use warm to wash the affected area. Repeat daily until the inflammation subsides.
2. Rosacea
Compresses soaked in a decoction made from fresh horse chestnuts are recommended for treating sensitive skin prone to rosacea. To prepare the concentrated horse chestnut decoction, boil 5-6 whole large horse chestnuts (remove the green husks), for 15 minutes. Allow to cool and apply the warm compresses to the face for 15-20 minutes, in the morning and evening, for 2-3 weeks. Consistency is key.
Horse chestnuts have always been considered a true talisman, bringing strength and health. Elders in rural areas would advise the sad and weak to carry 4-5 horse chestnuts in their pockets to absorb the beneficial energy from these fruits. The secret was to replace the old chestnuts with freshly picked ones once a week, to recharge with the energy of nature.
Horse Chestnut Safety and Contraindications
Internal use of horse chestnut preparations is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding and for people suffering from liver or kidney problems.
More Horse Chestnut Recipes:
Flour
Salve
Syrup
Tincture
If you’ve enjoyed learning how to make horse chestnut decoction and how to use this decoction for various health problems, please share this article. Stay healthy, naturally!
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