How to use Steam Essential Oil Distiller?

A steam essential oil distiller is a device that extracts essential oils from plants and herbs through the process of steam distillation. It works by using steam to heat the plant material, resulting in the essential oils being released and evaporating. The steam and essential oils are then condensed into a liquid form, which can be collected and used for various purposes.

Steam essential oil distillers are widely used by people interested in creating their essential oils. They provide a safe and efficient way to extract high-quality, pure essential oils from plants and herbs.

They come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to large industrial-sized distillers. The products from steam distillation including hydrosols and essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy, herbal medicine, and natural skincare products.

Here you can have the best option for an oil distiller machine.

How to Extract Essential Oil by Using a Steam Distillation Kit?

Following are the steps for extracting essential oil using a steam distillation kit:

●     Choose the Plant Material: The plant material is the source of essential oil, so it’s crucial to choose a suitable material. The plant material should be fresh or dry and of high quality. Avoid using wilted, damaged or spoiled plants, as they may affect the quality of the oil. Additionally, the amount of oil that can be extracted varies between plants. Some plants, such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus, have a higher oil yield and are popular choices for steam distillation.

●     Set up the Steam Distillation Kit: Steam distillation kits are available in various sizes and designs, but they typically consist of a steam generator, a distillation flask, and a condenser. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble the kit properly. Ensure all the parts are clean and dry before starting to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.

●     Add Water to the Steam Generator: Distilled or filtered water should be used in the steam generator. Using tap water may introduce impurities, such as chlorine disinfectant, that can affect the quality of the oil.

●     Add the Plant Material to the Flask: Add the plant material to the distillation flask, ensuring it’s not too tightly packed. That will allow the steam to flow freely and extract the essential oil.

●     Connect the Kit: Attach the steam generator and condenser to the distillation flask. The steam will pass through the plant material and extract the essential oil. The condenser is used to cool the steam and condense the essential oil and hydrosol.

●     Heat the Water: Place the steam generator on a heat source, such as a hot plate or stove, and heat the water until it starts to boil, which will release steam to rise from the generator and pass through the plant material.

●     Collect the Essential Oil: As the steam passes through the plant material, the volatile compounds within the herbs will vaporize. The steam carrying the essential oil will then pass through the condenser, cool down and condense into a liquid. This liquid will collect in the collection flask or separator. The amount of essential oil collected depends on the quality and quantity of the plant material and the length of the distillation process.

●     Separate the Essential Oil from Hydrosol: Once you have collected it, you need to separate it from the hydrosol. You can use an essential oil hydrosol separator or separating funnel to do this. Essential oils are less dense than water and will float on top of it. The separator will allow you to separate the oil while collecting the hydrosol.

●     Store the Essential Oil: Once you have separated it, store it in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Label the bottle with the plant’s name and the extraction date. Essential oils are volatile and can vaporize quickly if not stored properly. It’s important to use the oil within a year or so to ensure maximum potency.