Abstract:
The extraction by maceration in hydro-alcoholic solutions is the oldest method
of using alcoholic spirits. Since ancient times, there were concerns on studying the stability of
these preparations and finding fakes. We have been studying this problem for many years. The
paper presented a specific evolution in time (5 years), according to assortment, from the
moment of preparation and during the many years of preservation in airtight glass containers.
The extract (g/100 ml) has varied either by diminution (six cases) or by higher values of fresh
macerates, but there were two cases of stability, too. The content of soluble dry matter has
increased in most of macerates, the cases of unchanged values or diminution being in minority.
The colour parameters (luminosity, chromatic, the two coordinates of colour and shade) have
evolved differently, giving the possibility of identifying in time the extract authenticity of every
species. The determinations done in dynamics have shown the evolution of chemical
composition of hydro-alcoholic concentrates, achieved during 5 years. We have also made 18
spectra, in order to study comparatively, the two types of macerates, the fresh ones, prepared
in 2007, and the others, preserved for many years (determined in both 2006 and 2007).
Determinations are a basis of repeatability and possible identification.