Solvent Extraction

Solvents, such as hexane and other toxic chemicals, are used to extract the oil from the plant material. This method is less costly and more efficient in producing a greater amount of oil. However, toxic residues are left from the hexane, making it undesirable for those wanting pure oils. Absolute flower oils and high percentage of commercial vegetable oils are extracted using this method.

Cold, Expeller, or Mechanically Pressed Extraction of Vegetal Oils

Seeds, buts, fruits, and vegetables are pressed without using heat to preserve the components in the oil.

Cold pressed oils are produced by a mechanical batch-pressed process in which heat-producing friction is minimized. keeping temperatures below 120F (49C). The expeller-pressed method generates more heat to extract the oil, so in-line refrigerated cooling devices are added to the presses to keep the temperature down to 185F (85C) during the pressing.

A large percentage of vegetal oils are usually refined after being pressed, using high heat and harsh chemicals. Therefore, it is important to check the label on the container to ensure that the oil is unrefined, containing all the valuable nuttrients.

Refining Process for Vegetal/Carrier Oils

After the oil has been extracted from the plant material, it is usually put through a refining process that includes th following:

Degumming: Removes chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals from the oil.

Refining: An alkaline solution called lye is added to refinr the oil.

Bleaching: Fuller's Earth, a naturally occurring clay-like substance, is added as a bleaching agent and then filtered out, further removing nutritive substances. The oil at this stage becomes clear.

Deodorizing: The oil is deodorized by steam distillation at high temperatures over 450F (232C) for thirty to sixty minutes.

Winterizing: The oil is then cooled and filtered. This process prevents the oil from becoming cloudy during cold temperatures.

The finished product is nutrient deficient, with only fatty acids remaining.