What is the most common way to extract essential oils?

Distillation is the most common method for extracting essential oils due to its efficiency and effectiveness in preserving the aromatic qualities and beneficial properties of the oils. This process involves heating plant materials to create steam, which helps to release the essential oil. The steam and oil vapor are then cooled and condensed back into liquid form, allowing the oil to be separated from the water.

The methods used for extracting essential oils can vary in terms of complexity and suitability for different types of plant materials. While solvent extraction can be used for aromatic compounds that cannot withstand the heat of distillation, and enfleurage may be suitable for delicate flowers, these methods are not as commonly employed as distillation. Infusion typically involves steeping plant material in a carrier oil, which might extract some properties but does not yield essential oils in the same concentrated manner. Therefore, distillation remains the most prevalent choice due to its ability to yield high-quality essential oils.