I usually do a decoction ( Low temp 150 degrees, water extraction for 10 days) of the roots into a syrup, then add 50% alcohol to preserve it as a tincture. I use the tincture in a roller bottle, and most of the time I even carry that one. It is the king of herbals, I have had it heal a bruise overnight! The leaves make a good tea, but they are not as strong in the active compounds. To use them, I make the tea, and keep the leaves. I wrap them in a coffee filter, and put plastic on the outside surface (so they will not dry out); then I tape the formentation / poltice where it is needed, and leave it overnight as a minimum. If tape bothers your skin, use an elastic bandage instead. If you put the tea, and the poltice in the refrigerator when not in use; you can re-wet the poltice and reuse it for about three days. it will work a little longer, but it spoils, and a new batch is easy. I also drink the tea, some say that is bad, due to the active compounds in it, but my reading shows they are over reacting. GOD Bless, and keep studying herbals!