Decoction — herbalism term · PlantSage glossary
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Decoction defined
— Water extraction by simmering.
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The definition
Preparation method where roots, bark, or seeds are simmered in water (typically 15-30 minutes) to extract their active constituents. Used for tough plant parts that don't yield to brief infusion.
Mechanism
Heat and prolonged contact break down cell walls and dissolve water-soluble compounds — alkaloids, glycosides, polysaccharides, minerals.
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Example plants
Classic species in this category from the PlantSage archive.
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See also
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