The most common method of extracting essential oils is a steam distillation process:
1. Water is carefully heated to create steam.
2. The pressurized steam is then circulated through plant material.
3. The aromatic and volatile compounds of the essential oils are extracted from the plant and carried upward by the steam.
4. The steam (now infused with the essential oil compounds) is cooled within a condenser.
5. Once the steam cools, the water and oil compounds naturally separate and the essential oil is collected.
6. The leftover floral water can also be utilized in beauty and home products.
1. Water is carefully heated to create steam.
2. The pressurized steam is then circulated through plant material.
3. The aromatic and volatile compounds of the essential oils are extracted from the plant and carried upward by the steam.
4. The steam (now infused with the essential oil compounds) is cooled within a condenser.
5. Once the steam cools, the water and oil compounds naturally separate and the essential oil is collected.
6. The leftover floral water can also be utilized in beauty and home products.
To ensure the highest quality oil extract with the correct chemical composition, the temperature and pressure must be closely monitored. Too little heat or pressure and the oil will not release; too much, and the oil’s composition and potency will be affected.
(Compression, in which plant parts are pressed to squeeze out the essential oil, is another common method of distillation. Many citrus oils are expressed in this manner.)
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