Bath - Often an infusion or decoction diluted into bath water.

Compress - Liquid which is applied to a cloth or piece of cotton and held on the affected area.

Cordial - A stimulating medicine or drink.

Cream - Preparation made from combining a herbal infusion and infused oil (or essential oil in carrier) with beeswax, and solidifying.  Ideal for inflamed or weepy skin conditions.

Decoction - Liquid obtained from simmering herbs, spices, berries, roots or barks in water for a certain amount of time.

Essential Oil - Oils distilled or cold-extracted from plant matter.  Should not be used alone internally or externally.

Extract - Made by allowing the herb to soak in a solvent, then allowed to evaporate naturally to strengthen.

Gargle - A liquid, often an infusion, which is used to treat the throat.

Infused Oil - Oil in which herbs have been left to steep, either over months in the sun or hours in a hot water bath.

Infusion - Made by steeping a delicate herb in hot water for a few minutes; herbal teas.

Inhalant - Herbs or Essential Oils placed in steaming water to be inhaled.

Lotion - Any liquid used externally on the skin.

Massage Oil - Infused oil, or a blend of Essential oils in a carrier, rubbed into the skin for several minutes.

Ointment - Preparation made from combining infused or essential oils (in a carrier) with melted beeswax, and allowed to solidify.  Holds in moisture and keeps area humid.

Plaister, Plaster - Made by spreading ointment onto a bandage or other surface and securing to the skin for extended periods of time.

Poultice - Made by macerating herbs or other substances and applying to a bandage which is secured to the skin.

Salve - Similar to an ointment.

Specific - A remedy which has a curative effect on a particular ailment.

Syrup - Herbs added to sugar or honey, boiled, and strained.  Good for throat conditions.

Tincture - Made by soaking herbs in alcohol for extended periods of time, then straining.  Tinctures keep indefinitely, and only a small amount is required.

Tisane - Similar to tea, but without caffeine or tannic acids; herbal teas.

Tea - Most often associated with the Tea plant (Camellia Sinensis); similar to an infusion, but uses tougher herbs and boiling water.

Tonic - A substance which has a beneficial effect on health.

Vinegar - A sour, fermented liquid. 

Wash - Liquid used locally to bathe a certain area of the body.