Water determination

(residual moisture)

Excess water in herbs drugs is responsible for the growth of bacteria and fungi, as well as the hydrolysis of its constituents.

The pharmacopoeia monographs limit the water content, especially in drugs that have the ability to absorb water, or drugs in which excess water causes deterioration.

The water content is determined by the gravimetric method, the process by which the drug is dried at 105 ° C untill a constant weight, so it is considered a destructive method for plant material.