Essential oils have traditionally been used for therapeutic value. These oils have the properties of the spice or herb they are derived from. These aromatic and volatile oils are extracted from the leaves, stems, flowers of a plant.

Essential oils are of complex composition and contain aldehydes, alcohols, esters, phenol in varying proportions. Since these specialty oils have a very strong aroma and are highly volatile, they are used as a raw material in flavoring and perfumes.

These steam distilled spice derivatives are primarily extracted from spices and herbs, in the raw form. Since these oils are highly concentrated, they need to be diluted before usage.

Essential Oil Production Method

• Steam Distilled
• Solvent Extracted
• Cold Pressed
• Hydro Diffused
• Carbon Dioxide Extraction

Market for Essential Oils
USA, EU, and Japan are one of the major import markets of essential oils. The international trade in essential has been on the rise for the past few years because of the increase in demand of these oils in a number of industries. With the change in trend for preference of natural products, growth in demand for natural fragrances and flavorings, essential oils are also being demanded on a large scale.

Use of Essential Oils
The essential oils are traded in high volume and are particularly consumed in the flavor, personal care, industrial and pharmaceutical industries. These spice derivatives can have various benefits including anti septic and anti microbial action, for a healing and soothing effect. Some of the products in which these essentials used are :

• Soaps
• Cosmetics
• Perfumery
• Confectionery
• Chewing Delicacies
• Aerated Drinks
• Syrups