How are Essential Oils Produced

One of the most commonly asked questions—from both novices and those well versed in oils—is how are these essential oils made? How an essential oil is produced can often determine its purity and potency. In the essential oil industry, the most frequently used methods of extraction are steam distillation and cold pressing.

Steam Distillation

Steam distillation is the most common way to extract essential oils. It involves placing water and select aromatic plants into specialized equipment called a distiller. The water is heated until it creates steam, which passes through the plant material and draws out its aromatic compounds.

The steam, now carrying these essential oils, moves into a condenser where it is cooled back into liquid form. Once cooled, the essential oil separates naturally from the water and is collected.

Different essential oil companies use different distillation methods—some more gentle than others. Essential oils contain hundreds of delicate compounds called constituents, and too much heat or pressure can damage these beneficial components. Even a slight variation in temperature or pressure can alter an oil’s chemical profile.

That’s why the gentler the process, the more potent and therapeutic the oil will be.

Cold Pressing

Cold pressing is typically used to extract oils from citrus fruits such as lemons, grapefruits, limes, oranges, and tangerines. This method is preferred because other extraction techniques can compromise the potency and freshness of citrus oils.

In the past, cold pressing was done by hand. Today, the rind of the fruit is placed in a container with small spikes that puncture the peel while the device rotates. The punctures release the aromatic oil from the rind, which is then separated from the fruit’s natural juice.

Because no heat is applied, the resulting essential oil retains its bright, pure aroma and high concentration of natural compounds.

Purity and Potency Matter

Whether through steam distillation or cold pressing, the goal of every reputable essential oil company is to preserve the plant’s true essence. The process requires precision, patience, and respect for nature’s design.

A carefully produced essential oil doesn’t just smell wonderful—it carries the living properties of the plant itself, offering natural support for body, mind, and spirit.