Essential oils are volatile, aromatic compounds extracted from plants. Each method of extraction can influence the quality and composition of the essential oil, and different methods are suitable for different types of plant material. Understanding extraction methods can help you appreciate the process that goes into creating the essential oils you use in aromatherapy, perfumery, or personal care products. It's also a factor to consider when purchasing essential oils, as the extraction method can affect the oil's quality and price.

The primary methods of extraction include:

1. **Steam Distillation**
    - This is the most common method of extracting essential oils. It involves passing steam through the plant material. The heat from the steam causes the plant's cell walls to open, allowing the essential oil to be released.
    - The steam and oil vapor are then condensed back into a liquid, and the oil is separated.
    - This method is suitable for many different types of plants, including rosemary, lavender, and peppermint.

2. **Cold Press Extraction**
    - Also known as expression or scarification, this method is used primarily for citrus essential oils like orange, lemon, and bergamot.
    - The outer peel of the fruit is mechanically pressed to squeeze out the oil.
    - It's a quick, simple, and relatively inexpensive method, but it's not suitable for all types of plant materials.

3. **Solvent Extraction**
    - Solvent extraction involves using a solvent like hexane or ethanol to extract the oil. The solvent is mixed with the plant material and dissolves the essential oil.
    - The solvent is then removed, leaving behind the absolute, a highly concentrated form of essential oil.
    - This method is used for plants that are too delicate for steam distillation, like jasmine or tuberose. However, it's controversial because traces of the solvent may remain in the final product.

4. **CO2 Extraction**
    - In this method, carbon dioxide is used as a solvent under high pressure and low temperature. This causes the CO2 to become a liquid and dissolve the essential oil.
    - When the pressure is released, the CO2 returns to its gaseous state, leaving behind the essential oil.
    - This method results in a very pure, high-quality oil, but the equipment is expensive, making the process more costly.

Here's a simple comparison table:

| Method | Types of Plants | Quality | Cost |
| -------| ---------------- | ------- | ---- |
| Steam Distillation | Many types, e.g., rosemary, lavender, peppermint | High | Moderate |
| Cold Press Extraction | Citrus fruits | Moderate | Low |
| Solvent Extraction | Delicate flowers, e.g., jasmine, tuberose | Varies (possible solvent residue) | Moderate |
| CO2 Extraction | Various types | Very High | High |
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