Parameter Optimisation and Cost Analysis of Lavender Oil Production using Steam Distillation

Abstract

Due to the increasing demand for essential oils as a natural ingredient in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, perfume, and aromatherapy industries, this paper endeavours to determine optimal parameters for the extraction of lavender oil and explore the commercial viability of small-scale lavender oil production in a South African context. A total of 14 steam distillations were carried out using steam distillation times of 30-, 60- and 90 minutes on a native South African variant of the plant – Lavandula x intermedia, more colloquially known as ‘Margaret Roberts’ lavender. To test the efficacy of different distillation times, as well as the economic potential of using ‘Margaret Roberts’ lavender as a source of lavender oil, oil quality, and yield were analysed using GC-MS for oils from both fresh and aged lavender stems. It was discovered that fresh lavender had a maximum yield of 1.13% at a distillation time of 60 minutes, while aged lavender, stored for 1-2 weeks, had a maximum yield of 0.66 % at a distillation time of 60 minutes. Low or absent concentrations of linalool in all cases suggest that ‘Margaret Roberts’ lavender is less suitable for use in cosmetic and perfume production than conventional lavender variants such as Grosso and English lavender, and is better suited for cleaning products and detergents. Cost analysis indicates profits as high as 905.06 ZAR per 20 mL are projected if the plant is cultivated on site and the hydrosol resulting from each extraction is offered as an additional product, supporting the potential financial viability of the venture.