Sida Rhombifolia Extraction Method

Sida rhombifolia is a common weed that grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world, including some areas of the United States. The plant exhibits medicinal properties and its extracts are used throughout the world for treating a variety of medical conditions.

Method

• Extraction is a chemical process used to remove and concentrate the medicinal ingredients present in Sida rhombifolia from the plant. Soaking the plant in a solvent, such as water, ethanol, petroleum ether or chloroform, dissolves the active ingredients and separates them from the plant material. The solvent is then evaporated, producing pure, concentrated medicinal compounds.

Ingredients

• According to the Keystone Foundation of the Nilgiris, Sida rhombifolia leaves and roots are highly medicinal. David Bruce Leonard, a practitioner and teacher of traditional Chinese medicine, lists alkaloids, or nitrogen-containing compounds that are physiologically active as drugs, and a variety of vitamins and minerals as Sida rhombifolia constituents. He claims the extract is commonly used for treating depression, respiratory conditions and urinary tract inflammation.

Warning

• Sida rhombifolia has been ruled illegal for consumption by the federal government due to its ephedrine content, according to Leonard. Ephedrine is an alkaloid that dilates the air passages and is used for the treatment of asthma and nasal congestion. It raises blood pressure and increases heart rate. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration claims misuse of ephedrine exposes users to risks such as stroke, heart attack, and death.