Distillation | Saving Lavanda

What is distillation?

Lavender distillation is a process used to extract essential oil from the lavender plant, primarily from its flowers.

This procedure uses steam to separate the essential oil from the plant material.

Below are the main steps in the lavender distillation process:

HARVESTING LAVENDER
Lavender plants are typically harvested when the flowers are at their peak bloom, as this is when they contain the highest amount of essential oils.
PREPARING THE LAVENDER
The harvested lavender is placed in a distiller, a specific tool designed for steam distillation.
STEAM DISTILLATION
Steam is passed through the lavender mass. The heated steam comes into contact with the flowers and other parts of the plant, causing the essential oil sacs within the plant tissues to rupture.
CONDENSATION
The steam, now laden with essential oils, passes through a cooling coil, where it condenses back into a liquid.
SEPARATION
The resulting liquid is a mixture of water and essential oil. Since the essential oil is less dense than water, it floats on the surface, allowing the essential oil to be separated from the water - this water is the lavender hydrosol, which can also be used for cosmetic or therapeutic purposes.

The benefits of distillation

Steam distillation is one of the best methods for preserving the chemical and aromatic properties of lavender essential oil, ensuring a high-quality product.

Since 2024, we have been offering third-party distillation services at our facility in Pederobba (TV). While we primarily distill for our affiliated clients, we also provide this service to those who are not part of the supply chain.