Solar Still Extraction of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Yield, Quality, and Efficiency Analysis

The extraction of essential oils from medicinal and aromatic plants using solar stills presents a sustainable and efficient method of production. This literature review examines the yield, quality, and efficiency of this extraction method, highlighting research advancements and potential areas for improvement. Key aspects explored include environmental conditions, plant material characteristics, and operational parameters, all of which play crucial roles in determining the performance of solar stills. By synthesizing findings from diverse sources, the review highlights the types of bioactive compounds that can be obtained using solar stills, such as essential oils, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and discusses their pharmacological and therapeutic properties. While solar stills offer several advantages, including reduced energy consumption and minimal environmental impact, the review also addresses challenges associated with their utilization. Technical limitations, scalability issues, and economic feasibility concerns are among the key challenges discussed, underscoring the need for further research and development in this field. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the solar still extraction process, focusing on extraction yield, quality, and efficiency. By critically evaluating key factors and discussing potential areas for future research, the review aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and eco-friendly methods for obtaining bioactive compounds from medicinal and aromatic plants.