Since 2014, Essentia Pura has been involved in developing and researching the supercritical CO2 extraction process. Working directly with the extraction equipment manufacturer, they provided input and feedback as the machine was developed, allowing them to perfect the equipment. Now, the entire process is based on three variables that directly affect how the liquid CO2 gas interacts with the plant material. These variables, also known as parameters, are pressure, temperature, and time. Each variable is of great importance and has a direct impact on the outcome of the extraction. “Through trial and error, we have found the optimal parameters for a large spectrum of plants, allowing us to produce botanical extracts of the highest quality,” says Brezigar. So, how does CO2 extraction work? First, the raw materials, called biomass, are carefully analyzed and selected. The cylinders of the extraction machine are then filled with dry and ground biomass. After the parameters for extraction are set, the CO2 gas is pressurized at temperatures where it enters its supercritical state. This state is often described as a ‘cloud-like’ state between gas and liquid. In this state, the CO2 turns into a highly penetrating solvent with extremely low viscosity and surface tension. Its physical and solvent properties can be controlled even further through the parameters. The supercritical CO2 gas then flows through the plants, drawing all essential oil-soluble and water-soluble elements out of the plant and into collection vessels. After the process is finished, the extract is collected from the collection vessels and processed further. Brezigar tells us that, “sourcing the right packaging is extremely important to us, since our products usually contain bioactive ingredients that need to be stored in suitable packaging to preserve them. Proper storage is, therefore, crucial as it allows our products to preserve their biodynamic properties for longer. This way, we know we can deliver top-quality products to our customers. What we were looking for above all was quality assurance, accountability, smooth communication, trustworthiness, and a fair price. Luckily, these were all covered when we chose UV Defense Jars.”