A ratio frequently encountered on supplement labels, such as 20:1, describes the concentration of the extract relative to the original plant material. In this specific example, 20 parts of the raw plant were used to produce 1 part of the finished extract. This signifies that the extract is potentially more potent than consuming an equivalent weight of the whole plant.
The significance of this concentration lies in the potential for increased bioavailability and efficacy. A more concentrated extract may deliver a higher dose of the active compounds in a smaller serving size. Historically, the use of concentrated extracts has been a method to standardize the potency of herbal remedies and other plant-derived compounds, ensuring a consistent and predictable effect. It is beneficial to understanding dosing guidelines.
