Sweet Basil Absolute Oil

How to Prepare It is very common in large-scale operations to remove the oil from cracked seeds at low temperature with a non-toxic fat solvent such as hexane. When a plant such as jasmine contains very little oil or when the odorous properties of flavor and plant materials would be destroyed or altered by steam or water distillation, solvent extraction is used. The solvent is percolated through the plant material in order to produce concrete. The plants constituents including essential oils, fatty acids and waxes are dissolved by a solvent. After the solvent is distilled off, the remaining constituents make up the concrete. Alcohol is used to extract the essential oil from the other constituents. Since the waxes and fatty acids are not alcohol soluble, they are separated. The alcohol is then released through secondary distillation, leaving the absolute oil behind Storage and Handling Absolute Oils should be stored in dark, air-tight, glass bottles. The oils should be kept away from heat. If care is taken with storage, some absolutes can last for up to 5 years.Both absolute and essential oils should always be handled with care as they can be harmful. If you are not familiar with these oils, be sure to consult with an aromatherapy practioner before using them. Essential Oil Safety Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil Safety Never use Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils as a substitute for necessary medical care. Keep oils tightly closed and out of reach of children. Never ingest undiluted essential oils. Don't use undiluted oils on your skin. Dilute oils with vegetable oils, one to three drops per tablespoon. Keep oils away from eyes and mucous membranes. Skin test oils before using. Dilute a small amount and apply to the skin of your inner arm or back of knee. Do not use if redness or irritation occurs. If redness, burning, itching or irritation occur, stop using oil immediately. Use less rather than more.