Tincture Handbook: Part 3 - Types of Fluid Extraction Tinctures

A fluid extraction tincture goes through a process of macerating and extracting spices, botanicals, and/or superfoods, which are collectively known as herbs in herbalism, directly into a chosen fluid menstruum through a variety a methods that are either single, dual, or multi-step. Dissolved tinctures are not fluid extraction tinctures, since the powder extract is dissolved into the solvent.

A liquid extract, also known as a fluid extract in literature, is the finished tincture, which is what the the fluid menstruum becomes after maceration and extraction of herbs.

Fluid extracts that are unheated are of the best quality since they preserve many of the constituents that will degrade with heat application, but certain multi-step extraction methods, including dual-step, may benefit from heating during latter steps of the extraction process for greater concentration of constituents and nutrients for potency. For example: heat application will activate polysaccharidesA polysaccharide is a cluster of several sugar-type molecules bonded together. They are often found in plants that are classified as tonics which promote immune function by increasing absorption and digestion.

There are four main types of liquid extracts made by tincturing and each type has a degree of potency that is either superior, satisfactory, or specific in use.