| Solvent | What It Extracts Best | What It Does NOT Extract Well | Best Used For | Shelf Life | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Proof Alcohol (80–95%) | Resins, alkaloids, essential oils, cannabinoids, terpenes, bitter compounds | Sugars, mucilage, minerals | Potent medicinal tinctures, cannabis, pine, roots, barks | 5–10 years | Extremely strong, long shelf life, full-spectrum extraction | Flammable, harsh taste, not kid-friendly |
| Lower-Proof Alcohol (40–70%) | Flavonoids, antioxidants, glycosides, gentle plant compounds | Heavy resins, waxes | Leaves, flowers, fruits, gentle herbal tinctures | 2–5 years | Gentler, better taste, great for daily wellness | Less powerful for resin-rich plants |
| Vegetable Glycerin | Sweet plant compounds, some flavonoids, gentle extracts | Resins, oils, alkaloids | Kid-safe, alcohol-free tinctures | 1–2 years | Sweet, safe, soothing | Weak extractor, short shelf life |
| Olive Oil (or other carrier oils) | Essential oils, cannabinoids, fat-soluble compounds | Alkaloids, minerals, water-based compounds | Cannabis oil, skin oils, salves, massage oils | 6–12 months | Skin-loving, nourishing, non-toxic | Spoils faster, not shelf-stable |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Minerals, acids, alkaloids, vitamins | Resins, essential oils | Immune tonics, mineral extractions | 1–2 years | Non-alcoholic, mineral rich | Strong smell, acidic on skin |
| Distilled Water | Minerals, polysaccharides, vitamins | Oils, resins, alkaloids | Teas, decoctions, fresh herbal infusions | 1–3 days | Gentle, safe, fast | Spoils quickly |
| Honey | Aromatics, antioxidants, mild plant compounds | Resins, heavy oils | Cough syrups, soothing blends | 1–3 years | Preserves herbs, tastes great | Sticky, limited extraction power |
| Witch Hazel (Alcohol-based) | Tannins, skin-soothing compounds | Resins, oils | Skin toners, sprays, aftershaves | 2–3 years | Gentle on skin | Not full-spectrum |
Extraction Solvent Comparison Chart
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