Why are CO2 extracts valuable?

CO2 extraction

CO2 extracts are complex fat-soluble complexes of bioactive substances that are extracted from plant raw materials using carbon dioxide compressed to a liquid state.
Traditional extraction methods use a variety of solvents. At the same time, organic solvents are not able to ensure the extraction of the full complex of biologically active substances, and almost all solvents leave their mark in the composition.
CO2 extraction with carbon dioxide is a relatively new technology.

What are the benefits of CO2 extraction?

CO2 extracts use liquefied carbon dioxide to extract essential oils, resins, paraffin, and pigments. At atmospheric pressure, the CO2 evaporates completely, leaving no residue. The resulting extract has the entire set of useful properties of the plant.
CO2 extracts are superior in quality to absolutes because they do not retain a trace of the solvent used in the extraction.
CO2 extraction preserves nearly all fragrant substances from plants in their natural balance and high concentration, maintaining their biochemical composition and physiological activity.

What is the difference between CO2 extracts and essential oils?

The composition of CO2 extracts, as a rule, is richer than the composition of essential oils, and their taste and aroma are closer to the natural taste and smell of the plant from which the CO2 extract was extracted.
Essential oils, whether they are obtained by steam distillation or solvent extraction, are the release of only the aromatic components of the plant. In the case of CO2 extraction, a large volume of plant properties is obtained. In addition to aroma components, these are resins and waxes, aromatic substances, fat-soluble vitamins, alkaloids, higher alcohols, carbohydrates, carbon compounds and other biologically active substances.
Biologically active substances in the CO2 extract easily penetrate into the skin.

The shelf life of CO2 extracts after opening is 2 years. Natural antioxidants, which are found in huge quantities in any CO2 extract, successfully save it from rancidity. They are stored in the same way as essential oils: in a cool dark place, in a closed glass container.