Herbal Treatment Dosages
This post provides general dosage information for commonly used, gentle, and traditionally safe herbal remedies. Stronger or potentially toxic herbs have very different dosage requirements. ALWAYS research the specific herbs you are using.
For example, poke root tincture is typically taken in single-drop amounts. Never use the dosages below for poke root, and do not use it for children.
Dosage varies depending on a person’s weight, size, age, and overall health. Below, you’ll find suggested children’s dosages by age and adult dosages based on a general weight of approximately 150 pounds. Additional factors can affect dosing, including sensitivity to foods or herbs, the strength of the preparation, and the condition being addressed.
Keep in mind the difference between acute conditions (short-term issues like a cold or wound) and chronic conditions (slow-developing, long-term issues such as allergies). A common rule of thumb is: for every year you have had a chronic condition, expect at least a month of consistent treatment to support healing.
A Note on Health Choices
Many people turn to allopathic (conventional) medicine at the first sign of discomfort, even for minor issues. While lifesaving and necessary in many circumstances, long-term use of certain medications can come with side effects. If a situation requires conventional medical treatment, supportive natural methods and lifestyle adjustments—especially diet—may still help the body’s overall well-being. As the saying goes: “Let your food be your medicine.”
Suggested Dosages for Children
When the adult dosage is 1 cup (8 oz)
| Age | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Younger than 2 years | 1/2 to 1 teaspoon |
| 2–4 years | 2 teaspoons |
| 4–7 years | 1 tablespoon |
| 7–12 years | 2 tablespoons |
When the adult dosage is 1 teaspoon (5 mL)
| Age | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Younger than 3 months | 2 drops |
| 3–6 months | 3 drops |
| 6–9 months | 4 drops |
| 9–12 months | 5 drops |
| 12–18 months | 7 drops |
| 18–24 months | 8 drops |
| 2–3 years | 10 drops |
| 3–4 years | 12 drops |
| 4–6 years | 15 drops |
| 6–9 years | 24 drops |
| 9–12 years | 30 drops |
Suggested Dosages for Adults
Acute Health Concerns
Acute problems are active and symptomatic, so remedies are usually taken more frequently in smaller amounts. Catching an issue early often leads to faster improvement.
Guidelines (not rules):
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1/4 cup herbal infusion every 30 minutes, up to 4 cups daily
-
1/2–1 teaspoon herbal syrup every 2 hours, up to 10 teaspoons daily
-
1/4–1/2 teaspoon tincture every hour, up to 6 teaspoons daily
-
1–2 herbal capsules or pills every 2 hours, up to 8 daily
Chronic Health Concerns
For chronic issues, consistency is key—larger doses taken less frequently over time are often used. Take remedies at the same time each day and follow supportive protocols (such as diet and lifestyle adjustments). Using remedies inconsistently may slow progress.
Guidelines (not rules):
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3–4 cups herbal infusion daily
-
1–2 tablespoons herbal syrup twice daily or as needed
-
1/2–1 teaspoon tincture 2–3 times daily, up to 3 teaspoons total
-
2–3 capsules or pills 2–3 times daily (up to 6 per day)