Inspired by Susun Weed | By Sister Abigail Hester, CNC
In the fast-paced chaos of our world, we need rituals that root us, nourish us, and connect us back to the Earth and our own inner rhythms. One of the simplest and most powerful ways to do that is with nourishing herbal infusions, a practice popularized by beloved herbalist Susun Weed.
These are not your average tea bags. Infusions are strong, mineral-rich, deeply restorative brews that support whole-body vitality, especially for women, queer and trans folks, caregivers, and anyone recovering from chronic stress or depletion. And best of all? They’re affordable, safe, and easy to make at home.
🌸 What Is a Nourishing Herbal Infusion?
Unlike a light tea, a nourishing herbal infusion is made by steeping a full ounce (about one cup) of dried herb in a quart of boiling water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This longer steeping time extracts an abundance of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and nourishing compounds that heal and rebuild the body over time.
You strain the infusion in the morning, refrigerate it, and drink a cup or more throughout the day—hot, room temp, or chilled.
🌿 Sister Abigail’s Top 5 Infusion Herbs
Here are five classic infusion herbs Susun Weed recommends, and that I use in my own kitchen apothecary:
- Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)
A powerhouse of chlorophyll, calcium, iron, protein, and trace minerals. Supports adrenal health, energy, and hair/skin health. - Oatstraw (Avena sativa)
Gentle and calming, oatstraw helps soothe the nervous system, restore depleted nerves, and ease anxiety and stress. - Red Clover Blossoms (Trifolium pratense)
Rich in phytoestrogens and cleansing for the lymphatic system. Great for hormone balance and breast health. - Linden Flower (Tilia spp.)
Soothing, heart-centered, and anti-inflammatory. Supports emotional healing, lowers blood pressure, and helps with grief. - Comfrey Leaf (Symphytum officinale)
Known as “knitbone,” comfrey is deeply nourishing to bones, joints, and tissues. Used safely in infusion (not root), it helps rebuild the body.
🫖 How to Make a Nourishing Infusion
You’ll need:
- 1 oz dried herb (about 1 cup, loosely packed)
- 1 quart (32 oz) boiling water
- A quart-size mason jar or French press
- Fine mesh strainer
Instructions:
- Place the herb in your jar.
- Pour boiling water to fill the jar completely.
- Cap it and let it steep 4–10 hours (overnight is ideal).
- Strain into a clean jar. Compost the herb.
- Refrigerate and drink 1–4 cups daily. Best within 48 hours.
🌈 Infusion Rituals for the Spirit
As a Franciscan Clarean and a kitchen witch of sorts, I often turn infusions into sacred rituals. As you pour the boiling water, whisper a blessing. As the herbs steep, imagine the plant spirits whispering healing into your life. And as you sip, breathe in gratitude.
You can also set intentions:
- Nettle for strength and courage.
- Oatstraw for emotional healing.
- Red Clover for self-love and feminine balance.
- Linden for peace and heart-centered living.
- Comfrey for restoration and resilience.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Susun Weed teaches that “simple herbs used simply restore wholeness.” These infusions are not just drinks—they’re nourishment, empowerment, and medicine from the Earth herself. In a world that depletes us, let this be one of the ways you pour love back into your body.
If you’d like to explore these infusions with me further, I’ll be sharing some daily infusion blends and a video tutorial for Insiders soon. Until then—steep slow, sip deep, and stay nourished.
Sister Abigail Hester 
Leave a comment