Costus oil

Chemical properties

The oil is obtained in approximately 0.7% yields by steam distillation after maceration in water of the comminuted dried roots. Since the oil contains water-soluble components and has a specific gravity similar to that of water, it is subsequently recovered from the distillation waters by extraction with solvents. The oil has a characteristic persistent odor reminiscent of orris, violet and vetiver.

Physical properties

Costus oil is a viscous, pale-yellow to yellowish-brown liquid. It is soluble in most fixed oils and in mineral oil. It is insoluble in glycerin and propylene glycol.

Definition

Extractives and their physically modified derivatives. Saussurea lappa, Compositae.

Essential oil composition

The main constituents include myrcene, p-cymene, l-limalool, β-ionone, sesquiterpenes, costolactone and a small amount of palmitic acid.