Extracts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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extracts
[หษkstrรฆkt ]
Definition
natural products
Concentrated substances obtained from plants, fruits, vegetables, or other natural sources using various extraction methods. Extracts are commonly used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Synonyms
concentrate, essence, essence, tincture.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| extracts |
Used when referring to a substance taken from plants, food, or other materials through a specific process. Typically used in cooking, medicine, or cosmetics.
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| essence |
Used when referring to the intrinsic nature or most important quality of something, often in a philosophical or abstract sense. It also means a highly concentrated form of flavor or aroma.
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| concentrate |
Used when referring to a substance that has had water or other diluting agents removed, making it stronger or more powerful. This is often used in the context of juices, cleaning products, or chemicals.
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| tincture |
Used when referring to an alcohol-based solution, especially in the context of herbal medicine or pharmaceuticals. It has a traditional or historical connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Vanilla extract is commonly used in baking.
- Green tea extract is known for its antioxidant properties.
- Ginger extract is often used in traditional medicine.
- Coffee extract is used to flavor desserts.
- Peppermint extract is used to add flavor to beverages.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- Vanilla extract, made from vanilla beans, is a key ingredient in many desserts, adding its distinctive flavor.
- Herbal extracts are used in cooking to enhance flavors without adding bulk, like adding a drop of lemon extract.
- Some extracts, like peppermint, are often used in candies and holiday treats for their strong, refreshing taste.
Science and Medicine
- Extracts from plants often have medicinal properties, used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
- The process of creating extracts often involves methods such as distillation or cold pressing to preserve active ingredients.
- Alcohol is commonly used as a solvent in creating herbal extracts, helping to concentrate the natural compounds.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, herbal extracts have been used in rituals and ceremonies, highlighting their perceived power and healing properties.
- The use of extracts extends beyond the kitchen; essential oils are extracts used in aromatherapy to promote wellness.
- Culinary traditions around the world often utilize specific extracts unique to their region, reflecting local flora.
Environmental Impact
- The extraction process of natural substances can lead to conservation concerns if not done sustainably.
- Some extracts are derived from endangered plants, raising awareness about biodiversity and the need for preservation.
- Growing demand for natural extracts has encouraged organic farming practices, benefiting the environment.
Origin of 'extracts'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'ex-trahere', meaning 'to pull out' or 'to draw out'.
- In English, 'extract' has been used since the 15th century, initially referring to medicinal herbs.
- It was originally associated with getting substances from plants for healing purposes.
The word 'extracts' comes from the Latin word 'extractus', which is the past participle of 'extrahere', meaning 'to draw out'. The use of extracts dates back centuries, with ancient civilizations using plant extracts for medicinal and culinary purposes. Today, extracts play a vital role in various industries due to their concentrated nature and unique properties.
See also: extract, extracted, extracting, extraction, extractor.