Why do Homeopathics contain alcohol?
The alcohol used in manufacturing is a pharmaceutical grade, non-grain ethanol as a stabilization & potentiation ingredient. This type of ethanol is the purest form of alcohol available, and it minimizes the possibility of any grain-related allergic reactions – an essential consideration in any medical therapy. When alcohol is not used as a stabilizing agent, glycerine is used as an alternative. Water is used in homeopathy as the base dilution medium, but it won’t stabilize the ingredients. An unopened bottle that is strictly water without any alcohol or glycerine will probably have a shelf life of 1 week. According to HPUS regulations (homeopathic pharmacopeia of the United States) alcohol or glycerine is a requirement.** Alcohol sensitivities: If alcohol sensitive, the homeopathic drops may be put into a 3 oz. glass of warm water.