FLUID EXTRACTS OF HERBS

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FLUID EXTRACTS OF HERBS

 

Fluid extracts are used both to concentrate and preserve the active

ingredients of an herb, enabling it to be used whenever necessary,

i.e.

when the herb is out of season. Fluid extracts are considered by many

herbalists to be the preferred way to preserve water soluble active

ingredients. If possible always use fresh ingredients. When properly

made one fluid ounce of fluid extract equals one ounce of fresh herb.

Always use accurate measurements to ensure consistency and the

effect of

a given dose. Equipment needed - Large non metal or stainless steel

pan

with lid, water - not city water, heat source, measuring jug,

vegetable

glycerin.

 

Directions to produce 4 oz of Dandelion root fluid extract - 4 oz

washed

 

fresh Dandelion roots 3 quarts water (total amount) 2 fluid oz

vegetable

 

glycerin. Chop Dandelion roots into approx. 1\4 inch pieces. Put into

pan with 2 quarts water. Bring to a boil and then cover pan and

allow to

simmer until water is reduced to one quart. Take off heat and strain

through a cloth squeezing out all excess liquid. Place remains of

herb

back into pan and add one quart water. Save fluid that was strained

and

put to one side. Reheat pan to boil and simmer herbs again with the

pan

covered until liquid is reduced by half to 1 pint. Strain through a

cloth discarding the solid remains. Now combine the two strained

liquids, return to the large pan and bring to a boil. Cover the pan

and

simmer until liquid is reduced to 2 fluid ounces. These will take

several hours...

You have now extracted all the water soluble ingredients from 4 oz of

Dandelion roots and concentrated them into 2 oz of fluid. Remove this

liquid from heat and allow to cool. Add 2 oz of vegetable glycerin

and

mix well. Pour into a dark glass bottle, stopper tightly and store

in a

cool place. Treated with care this fluid extract will last at least

one

year.

N.B. - Glycerin is an essential fatty acid and is generally a by

product

 

of soap manufacturing. It is used as a preservative and stabilizing

agent.

Never add glycerin to hot liquids as it is temperature sensitive and

will

coagulate. Always mix with cold or warm liquids.

 

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