What is the difference between decoction and extract?

Definitions

decoction

- A method of preparing herbal remedies by boiling the plant material in water.

- Referring to a liquid made by boiling medicinal plants or herbs in water.

- Talking about a concentrated liquid made by boiling down a substance to extract its active ingredients.

extract

- Referring to a concentrated substance obtained by separating it from its source.

- Talking about a liquid or solid substance that contains the active ingredients of a plant or herb.

- Describing a process of obtaining a substance by using solvents, distillation, or pressing.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both involve obtaining a concentrated substance from a source material.
• 2. Both can be used in herbal medicine and cooking.
• 3. Both require a process of extraction or concentration.
• 4. Both can be used to isolate the active ingredients of a substance.
• 5. Both are liquids that can be stored for later use.

What is the difference?

• 1. Method: Decoction involves boiling the source material in water, while extract can use various methods such as solvents, distillation, or pressing.
• 2. Concentration: Decoction results in a liquid that is less concentrated than an extract.
• 3. Purpose: Decoction is often used in traditional medicine, while extract is more commonly used in modern medicine and food industry.
• 4. Ingredients: Decoction uses the whole plant material, while extract can isolate specific active ingredients.
• 5. Usage: Decoction is typically consumed as a tea or beverage, while extract is added to food or taken as a supplement.

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Remember this!

Decoction and extract are both methods of obtaining a concentrated substance from a source material. However, the difference between decoction and extract is their method, concentration, purpose, ingredients, and usage. Decoction involves boiling the source material in water to create a less concentrated liquid that is often used in traditional medicine. Whereas, extract can use various methods to isolate specific active ingredients and create a more concentrated substance that is commonly used in modern medicine and food industry.