Carbon dioxide extracted essential oils: The future of aromatherapy?
In aromatherapy, finding pure and potent essential oils is key. One new method, carbon dioxide (CO2) extraction, is getting lots of attention. This method, known for high-quality oils, is changing how we capture plant essences. But what are CO2 extracted essential oils, and why are they special?
The process of CO2 extraction
CO2 extraction, or supercritical fluid extraction, uses carbon dioxide at high pressure and low temperature to get oils from plants. In its supercritical state, CO2 acts both as a gas and a liquid. This lets it pass through plant tissues like a gas and dissolve plant components like a liquid.
First, the plant material goes into an extraction vessel. CO2 is then added at high pressure, turning it supercritical. As it flows through the plant, it dissolves the oils and other valuable parts. Then, the CO2 turns back to gas, leaving the extracted oils and plant compounds in their purest form. This method avoids harmful solvents and doesn’t use high heat, which can damage delicate compounds.
Advantages of CO2 extracted oils
CO2 extraction has many benefits over steam distillation and solvent extraction. It captures a wider range of plant components. Unlike steam distillation, which may miss heavier, non-volatile compounds, CO2 extraction can capture both light and heavy compounds. This results in a more complete and true-to-nature oil.
Also, CO2 extraction keeps the plant’s aromatic profile intact. The low temperature used means heat-sensitive parts are not damaged, leading to a richer, more complex aroma than oils from other methods. This full aroma is highly valued in perfumes and high-end aromatherapy.
Purity and safety
CO2 extracted essential oils are known for their purity. CO2 is a non-toxic gas and leaves no residue in the final product. This is better than solvent extraction, where traces of solvents might stay and affect purity and safety. For those who want the cleanest product, CO2 extraction is reassuring.
Moreover, CO2 extracted oils often lack contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals, which can be a problem with other methods. This makes them great for therapeutic uses where top purity is needed.
Uses in aromatherapy and beyond
CO2 extracted oils can be used in many ways beyond aromatherapy. Their rich aroma makes them a favourite in perfumes, where capturing the true essence of a plant is key. In skincare and cosmetics, the purity and complete nature of CO2 extracts make for more effective products.
In therapy, these oils are prized for their effectiveness. For example, CO2 extracted Frankincense oil is known for better immune-supportive properties than steam-distilled versions. CO2 extracted Camomile is highly valued for its strong calming effects.
Cost and availability
While CO2 extracted oils have clear benefits, they cost more than steam-distilled oils. The advanced equipment and technology needed for CO2 extraction are expensive, which raises the final product’s price. However, many users find the superior quality and purity worth the cost.
Not all essential oil suppliers offer CO2 extracted options. But as more people learn about their benefits, more suppliers are starting to include these premium oils.
Oshadhi’s CO2 oils
Oshadhi offers a range of carbon-dioxide extracted essential oils. In addition a new range of carbon-dioxide extracted vegetable oils has recently been added to the collection.
CO2 extracted essential oils represent a big step forward in essential oil extraction, offering unmatched purity and aromatic richness. For those seeking the best quality and most authentic oils, CO2 extraction provides an exciting new option. Whether used in aromatherapy, perfumes, or therapy, these oils offer a unique blend of purity, potency, and complexity, setting a new standard in natural wellness.
Find out more
Read our full article on aromatherapy terminology to find out more about different methods of essential oil production.
