Decoction

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Decoction

Decoction (/dɪˈkɒkʃən/) 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.

Etymology

The term "decoction" comes from the Latin decoctio, meaning "to boil down".

Process

Decoction involves first mashing and then boiling in water to extract oils, volatile organic compounds, and other chemical substances. This process has a long history in traditional medicine and cooking.

Usage

Decoctions are used to make herbal teas, medicinal teas, tinctures, and similar solutions. In traditional Chinese medicine, decoctions are usually made from dried herbs and boiled for several hours.

Related Terms

  • Infusion: A process similar to decoction, but typically involving soaking herbs or other materials in hot water rather than boiling.
  • Tincture: A medicine made by dissolving a drug in alcohol.
  • Herbal tea: A type of beverage made by decoction or infusion of herbs, spices, or other plant material in hot water.
  • Medicinal tea: A type of tea that is used to aid in healing and is often made through the process of decoction.

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