How to Make a Herbal Menstruum (Solvent for Extracting Herbal Compounds)

Overview

A menstruum is the liquid solvent used to extract medicinal compounds from herbs. Choosing the right menstruum is essential for making effective herbal tinctures, glycerites, vinegar extracts, and oil infusions.

The most common menstruums include:

• Alcohol (for tinctures) – Extracts a wide range of compounds, including alkaloids, resins, and essential oils.
• Glycerin (for glycerites) – A sweet, alcohol-free alternative, ideal for children and sensitive individuals.
• Vinegar (for herbal vinegar extracts) – Ideal for extracting minerals and acids, commonly used in oxymels.
• Oil (for herbal-infused oils) – Best for extracting fat-soluble compounds for topical use.

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Step-by-Step Process for Making a Menstruum

1. Choose the Menstruum Based on Extraction Needs

Menstruum	Best For	Ratio Guide
Alcohol (Vodka, Everclear, Brandy)	Alkaloids, Resins, Essential Oils	40–95% alcohol
Glycerin (Vegetable Glycerin)	Sweet extracts, child-safe remedies	60% glycerin + 40% water
Vinegar (Apple Cider, White Vinegar)	Minerals, Acids, Digestive Support	100% vinegar or 50% vinegar + 50% water
Oil (Olive, Coconut, Almond)	Fat-Soluble Compounds, Skin Use	100% carrier oil

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2. Determine Alcohol Strength for Tinctures

If using alcohol as a menstruum, choose the right alcohol-to-water ratio:

• 40% (80-proof vodka/brandy) → Best for soft herbs (flowers, leaves, aerial parts)
• 50–60% (100–120 proof alcohol) → Best for roots, barks, and tough plant material
• 85–95% (170–190 proof Everclear) → Best for resins, gums, and high-alkaloid herbs

Example: A 1:5 ratio (1 part dried herb to 5 parts menstruum) is commonly used for tinctures.

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3. Create a Glycerin Menstruum (for Alcohol-Free Extracts)

• Mix 60% food-grade glycerin + 40% distilled water.
• Shake well to combine before use.

Tip: Glycerin extracts are sweeter and work best for mucilaginous herbs like marshmallow root.

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4. Prepare a Vinegar-Based Menstruum

• Use 100% apple cider vinegar for maximum potency.
• OR Dilute 50% vinegar with 50% distilled water for a milder extract.

Tip: Herbal vinegar extracts are great for mineral-rich plants like nettle or dandelion.

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5. Prepare an Oil-Based Menstruum

• Choose a carrier oil (e.g., olive, coconut, almond).
• For dried herbs, use 100% oil.
• For fresh herbs, wilt them first to remove moisture and prevent spoilage.

Tip: Herbal oils are best for salves, massage oils, and skin applications.

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Final Notes

✅ Always use food-grade solvents for safety.
✅ For stronger extracts, let herbs macerate for 4–6 weeks before straining.
✅ Store your menstruum in a cool, dark place to preserve potency.