Absolutes

Absolutes are highly concentrated aromatic oils extracted from plants using a solvent method. The multi-step process includes first extracting the aromatic oil from the plant material with a chemical solvent such as hexane. After the solvent is removed what is left behind is a waxy substance called a concrete. The aromatic oils are then extracted from the concrete with ethyl alcohol, and after the ethyl alcohol is removed, the remaining substance is an absolute – an oil with an aroma close to the plant from which it came. An absolute is the most concentrated form of fragrance and highly regarded in natural perfumery.  

Absolutes differ from essential oils in that they contain not only essential oil, but also a higher density of coloring, waxes and other constituents from the plant. In addition, they usually contain a small percentage of alcohol remaining from the second phase of the extraction process (typically up to 2 or 3 percent).

Need some help blending, or have questions regarding which type of oil is right for your project? Visit our Aromatherapy 101 section for tips, tricks and information.

You do not need a resale number to purchase our Essential Oils, Absolutes, CO2 extracts, Organic Extracts which are already available at wholesale prices. California residents: a resale number is required to avoid sales tax. For a printable PDF of our oils, please see our Price List.