FAQs

Q:  What is the shelf life of Avena’s liquid extracts and glycerites?
A:  The shelf life of liquid extracts ranges between two and a half to six years, and is based on their percentage of alcohol. Glycerites shelf life is two and a half years. For additional information go to Product Information: Product Types

Q: What is the shelf life of Avena’s crèmes?
A:  One and a half years.

Q:  How long does a liquid extract bottle last?
A:  Please refer to dosage information below.

Q. How many drops in a ¼ tsp or ½ tsp?
 A:  Generally, one full dropper is equal to approximately 1/4 tsp or 30 drops, depending on the viscosity (thickness) of the liquid.  Go to Dosage for more detailed information.

Q:  How much of a liquid extract or glycerite can I take? Adult/Child/Pet
A:  Dosage depends on the age, weight and sensitivity of each individual. Some individuals may find they need less than the suggested dosage on the label. For an acute condition, herbs can be taken every 1-3 hours until symptoms subside. For general maintenance, herbs can be taken 2-4 times per day.

Adult: ¼- ½ tsp mixed in 1-2 ounces of water.

Child: 1 drop/5 pounds of body weight mixed in 1-2 ounces of water or sugar-free juice. As a general guideline for children we use Clark's Rule: Divide the child's weight (in pounds) by 150. This gives you the fraction of the adult dose appropriate to give a child. Please consult with your herbalist or practitioner before giving extracts to a child, as some are too strong for children.
    
Pets: Please consult with your vet. Usually 1 drop of a liquid extract or glycerite for every 5 lbs of body weight.
     
Q:  I have a brief question regarding products or dosage.
A:  Our herbalist, Deb Soule or another staff herbalist, answers brief questions on Wednesday afternoons from 1-2 PM Eastern Standard Time.  Please call 207-596-0714.

Q:  What is the strength or ratio of your liquid extracts?
A:  The average ratio of Avena’s liquid extracts is 1:4. This means we combine 1 part of our herbs to 4 parts of a liquid menstruum (organic grain alcohol and spring water). A half teaspoon of extract contains approximately 250mg of herb.

Q:  Do you blend special formulas?
A:  Yes, we blend special formulas, a 2oz. minimum is required.  Please contact Customer Service.

Q:  I’m new to herbal products. How can I find more information ?
A:  Refer to our list of resources, for excellent herbal books go to Resources and to Avena’s educational programs for classes and workshops in Classes and Events

Q. Can I pay with a check?
A. Yes. Please call customer service at 866-282-8362, and we would be happy to total your order including shipping and then you may make your check payable to Avena Botanicals and send to:
 
Avena Botanicals
219 Mill Street
Rockport ME  04856
 
Your order will be shipped out when your check arrives.
 
Q:  Do your products contain gluten?
A:  All of our product are gluten-free.  

Q. Do I need to refrigerate liquid extracts or glycerites after opening?
A:  No, store your products in a cool dark cupboard. For more information go to Product Information: Product Types