Hi there, do you know what fractionation is and how it relates to the steam distillation process? Fractionation refers to the separation of different fractions or components of an essential oil. During steam distillation, various fractions can be collected depending on their boiling points. Here’s a brief explanation of some common fraction collections during steam distillation:
Terpene fraction – this is the main component of essential oils and contains compounds such as limonene in lemon oil or geraniol in rose oil.
Alcohol fraction – this contains high levels of alcohols, which have calming and soothing properties. For example, lavender oil has a significant amount of linalool, while tea tree oil contains terpineol.
Acid fraction – this is made up of acids that contribute to the flavor and odor of essential oils. Citrus oils such as lemon and orange have high levels of these compounds.
Sesquiterpene fraction – this group includes complex molecules that provide therapeutic effects in essential oils. For example, helichrysum oil has a high concentration of sesquiterpenes that are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.
By collecting these different fractions, distillers can create custom blends of essential oils with specific therapeutic benefits. However, the choice of which fraction to collect depends on the desired end product and the type of plant material being used during steam distillation.