Decoction

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Decoction is a method of extraction by boiling herbal or plant material to dissolve the chemicals of the material, which may include stems, roots, bark and rhizomes. Decoction involves first mashing the plant material to allow for maximum dissolution, and then boiling in water to extract oils, volatile organic compounds and other various chemical substances. Decoction can be used in the creation of herbal teas, medicinal tinctures, and similar solutions.

Process[edit | edit source]

The process of decoction involves the following steps:

  1. The plant material is first mashed to break down the cell walls and increase the surface area for extraction.
  2. The material is then placed in a pot with water and brought to a boil.
  3. The mixture is allowed to simmer for a certain period, typically ranging from 15 minutes to several hours.
  4. The liquid is then strained off, separating it from the plant material. The liquid is the decoction.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Decoctions are commonly used in herbal medicine, where the process is used to extract the medicinal properties of plants. They are also used in the creation of herbal teas, where the process is used to extract the flavor and aroma of the tea leaves. In addition, decoctions can be used in the production of essential oils and other plant-based products.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Decoction Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD