Calculating Menstruum

Calculating Menstruum

  • Understanding Menstruum Proportions

    • The menstruum, a solvent in herbal medicine, often requires precise calculations for effective extraction.

    • Focus on how much menstruum you are creating and the alcohol percentage needed in that proportion.

  • Calculating Alcohol Requirements

    • For a 100 mL menstruum at 45% ethanol:

      • 45 mL pure alcohol + 55 mL water

    • In practice, the example used is to dilute to 40% ethanol, similar to the strength of vodka.

  • Registering Use of Alcohol

    • Keep accurate records for every drop of alcohol used; spills and usage for cleaning must be noted.

  • Dilution Limits and Definitions

    • Cannot increase the strength of vodka (i.e., cannot turn 40% vodka into 60% vodka).

    • Concept illustrated with food coloring in water:

      • More water = less concentrated coloring; can't remove water for higher concentration.

  • Percentage Efficacy

    • 40% alcohol is sufficient for most reference ranges of chemical components in herbal extracts.

    • Rest assured that it's an adequate level and safe for use in your preparations.

  • Exothermic Reaction in Mixing

    • Mixing alcohol with water creates warmth, considered beneficial by some as it may assist in maceration of herbs.

    • The warmth felt is not harmful and dissipates quickly, contributing to the natural process.

  • Diluting Alcohol

    • Ability to dilute from 38% to 25% alcohol will be practiced in computations.

    • 40% alcohol considered safe, similar to drinks consumers consume directly like vodka.

  • Safety Concerns

    • Pure alcohol (like 90%) is not safe for consumption but is diluted before use, ensuring safe application in herbal remedies.

    • Proper calculation of ethanol and water proportion leads to safe usage without harmful effects.

  • Commercial Extracts Context

    • Commercial fluid extracts generally have higher concentrations (50-60%) but are taken in minimal amounts which mitigates risk.

  • Dosage Differences

    • Typical tincture or fluid extract dosage is around 5-7.5 mL; contrasts strongly with standard drinking measurements (30-40 mL).

    • Reinforces that taking tinctures typically delivers far less alcohol than standard drinks, often diluted further in juices or water.