Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

menstruum

noun

/ˈmɛnstrʊəm/

Definition

A substance used to dissolve a compound in the process of extraction or to carry away specific components of a mixture.

Examples

Water is commonly used as a menstruum for many herbal extracts.
In traditional alchemy, alcohol was often employed as a menstruum for extracting essences from plants.
The effectiveness of a menstruum can significantly influence the potency of the extracted solution.

Meaning

In the context of chemistry and pharmacology, menstruum refers to the solvent that allows the extraction of active ingredients from herbs or other substances.