Question

In the process of extraction, if maceration is accomplished by heating the drug and solvent in a close vessel, then this modification is known as _____

• A. Digestion
• B. Refining
• C. Expression
• D. Rendering

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The process described in the question involves maceration combined with heating the drug and solvent in a closed vessel. This process is known as digestion. Let's understand why digestion is the correct answer by examining the options:

1. Digestion: Digestion in pharmaceutical extraction refers to a modified maceration technique where the mixture of drug and solvent is heated to accelerate the extraction process. The heat facilitates the dissolution of components more efficiently than by maceration at room temperature. The closed vessel is used to prevent the loss of volatile components and to maintain a consistent temperature.
2. Refining: Refining typically refers to the process of removing impurities in substances, and does not involve the maceration or heating of drug with solvent for extracting active constituents.
3. Expression: This is a mechanical process used for obtaining substances from plant materials, generally oils, by physical pressure, rather than by using solvents.
4. Rendering: Rendering usually refers to the process of extracting fats by melting, which is not related to the maceration process described here.

Based on the explanation above, the correct answer is digestion as it specifically involves heating the drug and solvent in a closed vessel to enhance the extraction.