Which extraction method involves exposing solid ingredients to a prescribed solvent for about three days with frequent agitation?

• A. Infusion
• B. Maceration
• C. Decoction
• D. Digestion

Answer: (B)

Maceration is soaking solid ingredients in a solvent at room temperature for an extended period so soluble compounds diffuse into the liquid. Frequent agitation helps keep the mixture uniform and speeds diffusion by continually renewing the solvent around the particles. Doing this for about three days at ambient temperature fits maceration well, especially when the goal is to extract softer or heat-sensitive constituents without applying heat. Infusion uses hot liquid for a short steep, decoction boils the material to extract tougher substances, and digestion involves heating to accelerate extraction; none of those match the described three-day, agitated room-temperature process.