The
solvent extraction method is a very suitable method of extracting
essential oils from flowers with a low amount of essential oils. It is
also suitable for raw materials with a resinous constituents. The flower
petals are mixed with a volatile solvent such as ether, benzene,
petroleum or hexane until they are dissolved. Once they are dissolved
the solution is put into a distillation vessel to evaporate out the
solvent. Low pressure and heat is used since it is the solvent and not
the essential oils that need to be evaporated. The remaining product in
the distillation vessel is a concrete, and it is still containing
pigments and insoluble vegetable wax.
The
concrete is not mixed with alcohol, and it is heated enough to melt.
Some of the waxes and fats will dissolve in the alcohol together with
the essential oil. The alcohol is cooled down and filtered, and now the
alcohol needs to be removed by distillation in a vacuum still. The
lowest temperature available is used, and the final product is called an
absolute.
Solvent
extraction is a mild method and it causes less rearrangement of the
chemical constituent than the distillation method. The final products
have a better fragrance. However, it is an expensive process, and some
solvents may still remain in the absolute.
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Johanna is an aromatherapist and She is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils,
real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier
choices in their lives. Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.