Evaluation of Volatile Oils
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Product from different manufacturers varies considerably, since it is inherently difficult to control all the factors that affect a plants chemical composition. Environmental conditions such as sunlight and rainfall, as well as manufacturing process can create substantial variability in essential oil quality.
EVALUATION OF VOLATILE OILS
Product from different manufacturers varies considerably,
since it is inherently difficult to control all the factors that affect a
plants chemical composition. Environmental conditions such as sunlight and
rainfall, as well as manufacturing process can create substantial variability
in essential oil quality. Various procedures are given for the evaluation of
essential oils. Preliminary examinations like odour, taste, and colour.
Physical measurements, which includes optical rotation, relative density, and
refractive index. Chromatographic techniques are used to determine the
proportions of individual components of certain oils. The ketone and aldehyde
content of oils are determined by reaction with hydroxylamine hydrochloride
(oxime formation) and titration of the liberated acid. The oil, which passes
the above examinations, would be having good quality and therapeutic value.
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