Absolutes are aromatic extracts obtained through solvent extraction of plant matter or concrete essence. They differ from essential oils because they contain less volatile and heavier fractions, which confer greater olfactory richness and persistence. They are produced primarily when steam distillation is not possible or does not guarantee the desired yield, as in the case of roses. Thanks to their concentration and complexity, they are key raw materials in fine perfumery, cosmetics, soap making, and wax production.
Code: T1296
INCI: Jasminum officinalis
CAS: 8022-96-6
EINECS: 289-960-1
Family: Oleaceae
Type: absolute essence (OA)
Chemotype: Benzyl acetate (minimum 24%)
Food flavoring: yes (according to EC Regulation 1334/2008)
Extraction method: with solvent from flowers
Origin: Egypt
Extraction
Through solvent extraction, fresh jasmine flowers yield a very expensive concrete essence: just over half a kilogram requires about a ton of fresh flowers; this semi-finished product appears as a fragrant, dark orange ointment. Subsequently, through alcoholic separation, the concrete yields the precious jasmine absolute oil: a reddish-brown liquid that releases a distinctive, intense, sweet-floral, warm, and highly intoxicating scent with a tea-like undertone, characterized by the exceptional ability to smooth out any harsh notes.
Property
Jasmine absolute oil, completely non-toxic and non-irritating, in addition to its well-known fragrant qualities, also has aphrodisiac, sedative, carminative, and healing properties; it is also a mild analgesic. Like jasmine absolute itself, jasmine absolute is an excellent medicine for treating dry and/or irritated skin, although it should be noted that regularly anointing oneself with this fragrant natural absolute is certainly not an expense within the reach of most people. In ancient pharmacopoeia, jasmine essence was considered a supreme remedy for depression and stress because it "...induces a pervasive feeling of optimism, confidence, and euphoria...it banishes apathy, indifference, and listlessness". It harmonizes well with the essential oils of lemon balm, rose, sandalwood, clary sage, styrax, ylang-ylang, and citrus oils in general. The relevant technical and safety documentation for the product is available upon request.
Uses
This extraordinary natural raw material is traditionally used as a flavoring agent in the composition of high-end floral fragrances for both cosmetics and luxury perfumery. The relevant technical and safety documentation for the product is available upon request.
Botany
Native to China and northern India, jasmine is now widespread in its many varieties throughout the Mediterranean region, where it is cultivated as an ornamental. The plant is an evergreen shrub (or climbing vine) with delicate, glossy green leaves and highly scented, star-shaped white flowers.