What You Need to Know
The process relies on the principle that volatile terpenes such as geraniol, citronellol, and eugenol are carried by steam at the boiling point of water. As the steam condenses in a cooler chamber, these aromatics precipitate into a clear, fragrant liquid while the heavier rose oil remains in the still. Precise temperature control preserves the delicate terpene profile, preventing degradation into bitter or flat notes.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Steam distillation of rose petal terpenes