An essential oil is a liquid that is generally distilled (most frequently by steam or water) from the leaves, stems, flowers, bark, roots, or other elements of a plant. Essential oils, contrary to the use of the word "oil" are not really oily-feeling at all. Most essential oils are clear, but some oils such as patchouli, orange and lemongrass are amber or yellow in color.
Steam distillation. Hydrolytes are by-products which contain soluble in water plant components and about 0.5-1% of the oil essence.
Cold pressed peel (e.g. citrus fruit). Not only oils but also wax is obtained. These types of oils are called essences.
Extraction with a solvent is used in case of resins and flowers that can’t be distilled.
The resin is mixed with a solvent, extracted in high temperature and filtered.
The final product is distilled to remove the solvent. Sometimes traces of the solvent are left and the substance is called a resinoid.
A similar process is used in case of flowers that are put into a solvent and then extracted and distilled. Colored and fragrant paste is obtained and it is called concrete. Next, it is blended with alcohol, heated and filtered. In the process of second distillation alcohol is removed and an absolute is obtained.
Another method is called enfleurage and it is the most time and labor-consuming.
Glass panels coated with a thin layer of fat (beef or pork) are covered with flowers which are replaced with fresh ones after 12 hours. This activity is repeated 36 times. A thick substance is produced that is later mixed with alcohol. Finally, the alcohol evaporates and only aromatic substances are left.
However, this type of oil is rare and rather expensive as it is wholly hand-made.
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