Herbal Extracts
Extracts represent naturally occurring phytochemicals (plant produced compounds) that have been removed from the inert structural material of the plant that produced them. The greatest advantage of using herbal extractions over the raw herb itself is that once extracted from the plant matrix, the phytochemicals bypass the need for digestion and are far more readily absorbable. Liquid extracts tend to be more potent and more convenient. There are a variety of extraction methods including water, glycerine, vinegar or various alcohol spirits. Each solvent will attract different phytochemicals.
For a more gentle extract, please see our "glycerite" listings (alcohol-free). Glycerine based extracts may not be as strong as other extraction methods, but carry a sweetness that is more suitable those with an aversion to alcohol based extracts.
