extracting essential oils from plants

Ever wondered how a sprig of rosemary or a citrus peel transforms into a tiny bottle of aromatic therapy? Essential oils are the concentrated essence of plants, and extracting them is both an art and a science. Depending on the plant part—leaf, flower, bark, or peel—different methods are used to get their fragrant oils. Here are some of the most common techniques:

 

steam distillation

This method is used for most herbs, flowers, and woods like lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, and frankincense. Steam passes through the plant material, vapourizing the volatile compounds. These vapours are then condensed into liquid, separating into essential oil and floral water (hydrosol). 

best for: leaves, flowers, bark, and resins

 

cold pressing (expression)

Used primarily for citrus fruits like orange, lemon, and bergamot. The peels are mechanically pressed or punctured to release the oils. No heat is involved, preserving the vibrant, zesty aroma.

best for: citrus rinds

 

solvent extraction

Delicate flowers (like jasmine) can be damaged by heat. Instead, solvents are used to dissolve the aromatic compounds, which are then purified. This method produces “absolutes” rather than true essential oils.

best for: fragile flowers

 

CO₂ extraction

A modern, high-tech method using pressurized carbon dioxide to extract oils without heat. It yields very pure, full-spectrum oils and is ideal for plants like peppermint or chamomile.

best for: a wide range of plant parts, especially where precision is key

 

maceration & enfleurage

Traditional methods where plant material is soaked in oil or fat to absorb the fragrance. Though rarely used commercially today, they’re part of perfumery’s romantic past.

best for: highly delicate flowers

 

Here's a list of essential oils commonly used in soap, including the common plant name alongside the botanical name, plant part and how it benefits your skin.