Maceration

Maceration extracts soluble compounds by soaking plant material in a liquid, often at room temperature. The liquid penetrates the material and carries dissolved substances into the surrounding solvent.

Solvent: A solvent is a substance that dissolves another substance to form a solution. Its polarity and composition determine which plant compounds maceration can extract.
Tincture: A tincture is a concentrated liquid preparation made by extracting substances, commonly plant compounds, with alcohol. Maceration in alcohol is a standard way to prepare many tinctures.
Infusion: Infusion extracts soluble substances by steeping material in a liquid, commonly using hot water. Infusion usually relies on heat, while maceration often proceeds at room temperature.
Phytochemical: A phytochemical is a chemical compound produced by a plant, often with a role in defense or signaling. Maceration targets soluble phytochemicals present in plant tissues.
Diffusion: Diffusion is the net movement of particles from regions of higher concentration to lower concentration. Dissolved compounds move from plant tissues into the surrounding liquid down concentration gradients.
Herbal medicine: Herbal medicine uses plants or plant extracts for health-related purposes. Maceration is a traditional way to produce liquid herbal preparations.
Decoction: Decoction extracts substances by simmering or boiling material in water. Its sustained heat contrasts with the typically unheated conditions of maceration.
Plant tissue: Plant tissue is an organized group of plant cells that performs a shared function. The structure and condition of tissue affect how readily solvent reaches its compounds.
Cell wall: A cell wall is a rigid layer outside the cell membrane that supports and protects many cells. Solvent must enter plant tissues through walls and damaged surfaces to reach soluble compounds.
Perfume: Perfume is a fragrant mixture designed to impart a pleasant smell. Maceration can extract aromatic compounds from botanical ingredients for fragrance.

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