Natural spices are aromatic substances obtained from natural animal and plant resources and are distributed in the glandular sacs of plants or animals. The extraction and separation technology of natural spices has a long history. This article introduces numerous traditional and emerging technologies of it, and elaborates on the methodological characteristics and application prospects of the emerging extraction and separation technologies.

Extraction and separation technology of natural fragrances

1.1 Steam distillation method

In the production of plant-based natural fragrances, steam distillation is a commonly used technique. This method is characterized by simple and easy-to-operate equipment, low cost and high output. Except for plant raw materials whose main fragrance components are easily dissolved, hydrolyzed or decomposed in boiling water (such as some fresh flowers like jasmine, violet gold and acacia), the vast majority of aromatic plants can be used to produce essential oils by steam distillation.

There are mainly three forms of steam distillation for the production of essential oils: water distillation, water distillation and water vapor distillation