Glycerine retains moisture, soothes inflamed or irritated tissues, and acts as a stabiliser for water-soluble and partially fat-soluble herbal constituents. It has mild antimicrobial properties and extends shelf life.
Used in herbal glycerites, topical skin preparations, suppositories, lozenges, and syrups. Suitable for alcohol-free formulations and often used in children's herbal medicines.
Not traditionally used in herbal medicine until modern extraction methods evolved. Now preferred as a solvent for herbs where alcohol is contraindicated.
Typically used as a base in glycerites (herbal tinctures without alcohol). Also used as a humectant in creams, cough syrups, and oral care formulas.
None known when used in typical doses. Excess internal use may cause diarrhoea.
None known.
