Harvesting Cinchona Bark: A Delicate Process
The extraction of quinine from cinchona bark is an intricate process that originally began in the misty mountain forests of the Andes. Traditional harvesting methods involve carefully stripping bark from mature cinchona trees without destroying the entire tree—a sustainable practice that allows continued growth and future harvests.
Skilled workers select trees that are at least 10 years old, using specialized tools to carefully remove the bark in sections. This process requires significant expertise to ensure the tree's survival and the quality of the bark. The outer layers are typically removed first, with harvesters focusing on the inner bark, which contains the highest concentration of quinine.
After harvesting, the bark is dried in the sun or through controlled methods to preserve its medicinal alkaloids. This careful drying process is crucial in maintaining the potency of the quinine.
How to get Cinchona bark in Australia?
While direct tree cultivation is restricted in Australia, cinchona is imported from various offers multiple avenues for cinchona bark and its derivatives. From raw bark for home brewing enthusiasts to pharmaceutical-grade quinine tablets, the market provides diverse options for different needs.
Try some today and order at Brew Yo!
https://brewyo.com.au/products/cinchona-bark-quinine-100g