A Quick & Convenient Guide to Your Extract Powder Prescription
Chinese herbal granules
At Almond Wellness Centre, we offer high-quality herbal granules for patients who require a convenient, “instant” alternative to traditional raw herb boiling. These granules are highly concentrated extracts made by decocting raw herbs and then spray-drying the liquid into a fine powder.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Measure Your Dose
Your practitioner will specify the dosage (usually 2–3 scoops or 1 sachet). Use the measuring spoon provided with your bottle.
2. The “Slurry” Technique
1. Place the prescribed amount of powder into a clean mug.
2. Add a small amount of cool water first to make a paste (this prevents the powder from clumping).
3. Fill the rest of the mug (approx. 100–150ml) with boiling or very hot water.
3. Stir and Dissolve
Stir thoroughly with a spoon until the granules are dissolved. Some “sediment” at the bottom is normal—this is often the insoluble fiber of certain herbs. Ensure you drink the sediment to get the full dose.
4. Cooling and Consumption
Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable, warm temperature. Drink it slowly.
- Timing: Usually twice a day, 30 minutes before or after meals.
- Temperature: Always drink warm. Avoid drinking the granules with ice-cold water, as this can hinder digestion (Spleen Qi).
Granules vs. Raw Herbs: What’s the Difference?
Patients often ask if the “instant” version is as good as the traditional “boiled” version.
| Feature | Raw Herb Decoction | Herbal Granules |
| Potency | Maximum dosage and extraction; most traditional and potent. | High concentration (usually 5:1 extract). |
| Preparation | 60+ minutes of boiling. | 1 minute (Instant). |
| Taste | Very strong and earthy. | Concentrated, but easier to drink quickly. |
| Portability | Hard to travel with. | Highly portable and travel-friendly. |
Our Verdict: Both methods are highly effective. We often prescribe raw herbs for acute or complex conditions and switch to granules for long-term maintenance or for patients with busy lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix the granules with juice or honey?
We recommend drinking the herbs with plain water. However, if the taste is a significant barrier, a small amount of honey is usually acceptable. Please check with your practitioner first.
Do granules expire?
Granules have a much longer shelf life than raw decoctions. Keep the lid tightly sealed to prevent moisture from getting in. If the powder becomes “clumped” or hard due to humidity, it is usually still safe to use, but contact us if the color or smell changes significantly.
Can I take them with my other medications?
Always maintain a 2-hour gap between your herbal granules and any pharmaceutical medications to ensure there are no absorption conflicts.
Summary Checklist for Patients
[ ] Use the measuring spoon provided.
[ ] Use hot water to ensure proper dissolving.
[ ] Drink the sediment at the bottom.
[ ] Keep the container in a cool, dry place.
Prefer the traditional method? View our guide on cooking raw herbs here.