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Why Temperature Matters in Herbal Extracts: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Why Temperature Matters in Herbal Extracts. At Amish Ways, we believe herbal extracts should be made with restraint, patience, and respect for the plant. Moreover, there is no single “correct” way to extract an herb — only the right method for the right plant, using the least force necessary.

Therefore, our standards prioritize preserving plant integrity over speed or volume.

Our Guiding Principle

We use the lowest effective temperature for each herb, favoring time over force.

  • Some herbs release their compounds easily, while others require gentle warmth.
  • In contrast, none benefit from being rushed.

By respecting the plant, we ensure extracts retain their full character and potency.

Our Extraction Method

All Amish Ways extracts are made using:

  • Pure MCT coconut oil
  • Whole, properly prepared plant material
  • Low-intervention infusion methods
  • Small, monitored batches

Additionally, we avoid harsh solvents, high heat, and rapid industrial processes, because speed should never compromise quality.

Temperature Standards (By Plant Material)

We tailor temperature to plant structure and compound sensitivity, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

🌿 Leaves & Flowers (Delicate Material)

  • Method: Ambient or gently warmed infusion
  • Temperature: ~70–120°F (21–49°C)
  • Reason: Preserves volatile oils, aromatics, and heat-sensitive compounds
  • In many cases, time alone is enough to extract these delicate parts.

🌱 Aerial Parts & Mixed Material

  • Method: Low, controlled warmth when necessary
  • Temperature: ~120–130°F (49–54°C)
  • Reason: Improves extraction efficiency while maintaining stability
  • This range effectively balances preservation with completeness.

🌳 Roots, Barks & Dense Material

  • Method: Carefully monitored warm infusion
  • Temperature: ~130–145°F (54–63°C)
  • Reason: Releases tightly bound compounds from tough plant fibers
  • Consequently, heat exposure is limited and carefully controlled.

What We Avoid

To protect extract quality, we intentionally avoid:

  • Temperatures above 160°F (71°C)
  • Rapid “flash” infusions
  • Open boiling or frying of herbs
  • Industrial shortcuts designed for speed over quality

Instead, if an herb requires extreme heat to extract quickly, we choose time over force.

Why We Use MCT Coconut Oil

We select MCT coconut oil because it is:

  • Highly stable at low temperatures
  • Neutral in taste and aroma
  • Effective at extracting lipophilic plant compounds
  • Naturally shelf-stable without preservatives

Thus, its stability allows us to work gently — not aggressively.

Time Is an Ingredient

Many of our extracts are infused for weeks, not hours.
As a result, this slow process lets plant compounds migrate naturally into the oil without degradation, producing a richer, more complete extract.

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Our Commitment

We don’t claim perfection. Instead, we commit to care, consistency, and honesty.

Every decision in our extraction process is guided by a single question:

“Does this protect the integrity of the herb?”

If the answer is no, we don’t do it.

Educational Approach

At Amish Ways, we focus on education and responsible use. Our goal is to help people understand how herbs historically fit into daily routines to support comfort and balance. Products are provided as examples of traditional preparations, not as medical treatments.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Herbal products discussed have not been evaluated by the FDA. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding personal health concerns.