Question:
How can I remove the chlorophyll from geranium leaves?
Replies:
Kirsti,
Acetone (available in most home centers) will extract chlorophyll and other plant pigments
from your geranium leaves.
Do be aware, acetone is flammable -- do the extraction outdoors away from open flames. Try to
not inhale the vapors -- a slight whiff won't harm you. Don't get it on your skin -- it will
extract skin oils and will dry the skin quite a lot. Have an adult assist you and it's likely
you'll have success. It's a good idea for you, and anyone helping you, to wear safety
glasses -- inexpensive glasses are also available in the home center where you will find
the acetone solvent.
Tear the leaves into small bits. Place them in a small (non-valuable) glass bowl -- don't
use a plastic bowl because acetone can dissolve some kinds of plastic. Pour about a quarter
cup of acetone onto the leaf fragments. Use the bottom of an old metal spoon the gently
crush the leaf fragments while stirring the solution until you achieve a nice dark green
liquid. Carefully pour off the liquid through a piece of cotton in order to achieve a
clear dark green extract. Allow the cotton to air dry until it has no odor -- it's then
safe to discard in the trash. When you're finished with your leaf extract, pour it onto a
crumbled newspaper and allow it to stand outdoors until the acetone evaporates at which
time it is safe to toss in the trash. Wash the bowl with detergent and water.
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