Anatomy of Extraction: Tailoring Ratios to Plant Density & Purpose

by Jason J. Duke - Owner/Artisan

Fresh Content: December 2, 2025 19:30

What is Structural Density?

Structural Density describes the weight-to-volume relationship of the herb. Low Density parts (Flowers, Aerials) are voluminous and fluffy; they must be Tightly Packed to minimize air pockets and usually require a "Wide Ratio" (1:10) to ensure full coverage. High Density parts (Roots, Barks) are heavy and compact; they naturally settle, allowing for higher potency "Tight Ratios" (1:3 or 1:4) because they displace less liquid volume per ounce.

Diagram comparing Low Density Flowers (Need Packing) vs. High Density Roots (Naturally Compact) in an extraction jar
Figure 13a: The Volume Paradox. (Click to Enlarge) Left: Flowers take up space and must be compressed. Right: Roots are dense and allow for concentrated ratios.

The Ratio Audit: Tuning to the Plant Part

Plant Part Physical Nature Action Required Target Ratio
Flowers / Tops Light / Fluffy. High Volume, Low Weight. Pack Tightly. Compress to remove air gap. 1:10 (Wide).
Roots / Barks Heavy / Dense. Low Volume, High Weight. Settle Naturally. No compression needed. 1:3 to 1:4 (Tight).
Berries Porous / Swelling. Absorbs liquid over time. Leave Headroom. Allow for expansion. 1:4 to 1:5.

 

1. The Physics of Density (Lignin vs. Cellulose)

Many beginners make the mistake of using a "Standard Ratio" (like 1:5) for everything. This fails because plants have different physical properties.

  • The Flower Problem (The Sponge): If you try to extract dried Chamomile or Red Clover at 1:5, the herb will absorb 100% of the menstruum. You will be left with damp herbs and zero liquid extract. You must use a 1:10 Ratio to ensure there is enough free-flowing solvent to retrieve the medicine.
  • The Root Problem (The Rock): Roots like Dandelion or Reishi are dense. If you use a 1:10 ratio, you are diluting the extract unnecessarily. You need a 1:3 or 1:4 Ratio to keep the solvent concentrated around the hard material, forcing penetration through osmotic pressure.
Chart comparing Low Alcohol Tonic extractions versus High Alcohol Acute extractions
Figure 13b: The Intention Matrix. (Click to Enlarge) Adjusting alcohol percentage based on whether the goal is Daily Nourishment or Immediate Mobilization.

2. The Strategy: Tonic vs. Acute Medicine

Beyond the physical plant part, the Alchemist must ask: "How will this be used?" The strength of the solvent (Alcohol %) determines the character of the medicine.

The Tonic Profile

Goal: Daily nourishment, building structure, long-term adaptogenic support.

Protocol: Lower Alcohol (25-35%).

Why: This extracts minerals, polysaccharides (nutritive compounds), and gentle glycosides. It creates a "Food-Like" extract that is easy to take in large doses (dropperfuls) without burning the mouth. Ideal for Reishi, Astragalus, and He Shou Wu.

The Acute/Medicinal Profile

Goal: Immediate physiological shift, stimulating organ function, mobilizing body systems.

Protocol: High Alcohol (40-60%).

Why: This extracts alkaloids, resins, and intense volatile oils. It creates a strong extract that hits the bloodstream fast. Ideally taken in small doses (drops). Ideal for Echinacea, Goldenseal, Lobelia.

3. Choosing Your Solvent Strength

This is the art of formulation. You are not just extracting a plant; you are engineering an experience.

If you make an Ashwagandha tincture at 60% alcohol, it will be bitter, fiery, and hard to take every morning. If you make it at 30% alcohol, it will be earthy, sweet, and easy to integrate into your daily routine. Since Ashwagandha is a Tonic meant for daily use, the 30% solvent is the superior choice for compliance and building deep vitality.

Conversely, if you make a Cayenne tincture at 30%, it will be weak and unstable. You want the fire. You want the immediate circulatory hit. Therefore, 45-60% is the only choice.

Phase 3: The Mechanics of Extraction (Process Engineering)

You have analyzed Structural Density. Now, proceed to Dynamic Extraction methods: