The XXXIst International Days of Essential Oils & Extracts, which took place last fall in Digne, France, provided an opportunity to learn more about natural products, creativity and regulatory threats to the industry.
Raw Materials From South America
Peru is the third largest country in South America in terms of surface area, explained Y. Seugnet and S. Dompnier (Uniquim), during their talk. Peru’s 30 million inhabitants mainly derive their income from marine and agricultural resources. The two main aromatic plants in the country are Peruvian pepper (Schinus molle) and ambrette (Abelmoschus moschatus). Schinus molle (Anacardiaceae), frequently called “false pepper,” is a 6–15-meter-high tree with persistent, finely indented leaves that smell peppery, having the appearance of a weepingwillow. Blossom comes in small clusters of white flowers, which yield bunches that resemble mini grapes. These red grains are collected by hand, selected, passed through a sieve, washed and dried. Then they are placed in bags and they will have a 55-day boat trip, if they are sent to France.