Minerals

Minerals occupy a unique place in traditional apothecary practice. Unlike plants, they are not living tissues but naturally occurring compounds formed through geological processes over long periods of time.

In practical herbal work, minerals often provide functional support — influencing texture, preservation, alkalinity, or gentle cleansing properties. Substances such as salts, bicarbonates, and other simple mineral compounds have long been used in bathing preparations, cleansing powders, and topical formulations.

This section of the archive gathers monographs for mineral-based materials used in apothecary preparations, exploring their origin, behavior in water, traditional uses, and practical considerations for formulation.

Entries are listed in Alphabetical Order Below

A - M | N - Z