“Preserving the Purity. Protecting the Value.”
After hydrodistillation, handling the extracted oil properly is essential to maintain its therapeutic, aromatic, and commercial value. This module outlines best practices for oil collection, filtration, storage, and quality testing.
A. Oil Collection & Separation
| Step | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Florentine Flask Output | Wait until all oil-water separation has occurred |
| Siphoning | Use a glass pipette or food-grade syringe to draw off the oil |
| Avoid Cross-Contamination | Do not mix batches; handle oil with clean tools only |
| Label Immediately | Mark with batch no., date, chip source, and distillation duration |
Pro tip: Allow the oil to settle for 12–24 hours before final transfer to ensure full separation.
B. Filtration (Optional)
Goal: Remove particulates or cloudiness before storage or sale.
| Filter Type | Use When |
|---|---|
| Fine mesh filter | For visible particulates (wood dust, soot) |
| Whatman paper filter | For fine clarity and polish |
| Cold settling | Leave oil undisturbed in cool, dark place to let impurities sink |
Cold settling can take up to 72 hours but yields crystal-clear oil.
C. Bottling & Storage Guidelines
| Factor | Ideal Condition |
|---|---|
| Container | Amber or cobalt glass bottles with tight caps |
| Temperature | Cool, stable environment (15–20°C) |
| Light Exposure | Avoid direct sunlight or fluorescent lights |
| Labeling | Include: product name, batch #, extraction date, origin |
| Storage Duration | Up to 2–3 years (aroma may improve with aging) |
Avoid plastic containers — they can degrade the oil over time or leach chemicals.
D. Oil Quality Indicators
| Parameter | High-Quality Oil |
|---|---|
| Color | Golden yellow to dark amber (depends on species/resin) |
| Aroma | Deep, complex, woody, sweet-balsamic |
| Viscosity | Slightly thick but not sticky |
| Purity | No suspended particles or cloudiness |
| GC-MS Analysis | Confirms sesquiterpenes & chromone content |
Optional Testing:
- GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) for chemical fingerprinting
- Specific Gravity and Refractive Index measurements
- Organoleptic tests (smell, color, texture by experts)
E. Documentation & Traceability
For traceable and export-compliant operations:
| Required Record | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Distillation Log Sheet | Track time, temp, batch source, yield |
| Oil Inventory Form | Quantity per batch, storage details |
| Quality Control Checklist | Verified purity, clarity, container seals |
| CITES / DENR Documentation (PH only) | Required for legally harvested agarwood |
Keep digital backups of all logs and documentation for compliance and audits.
F. Value Addition Options
| Strategy | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Aging in stainless drums | Enhances complexity of aroma |
| Blending with matured oils | Balances harsh notes in younger oils |
| Encapsulation or dilution | Prepares product for retail (e.g., roll-ons) |
Summary: The “5 Golden Rules” Post-Extraction
- Separate cleanly – no hydrosol carryover
- Filter wisely – clarity boosts shelf appeal
- Store cool and dark – avoid oxidation
- Label and log – traceability builds trust
- Test if needed – verify quality for premium pricing