atsiri

Atsiri is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to refer to essential oils—volatile, aromatic oils obtained from plant materials through processes such as steam distillation, hydro-distillation, solvent extraction, or expression. The word is commonly applied to both the oils themselves and the industry surrounding their production, use, and study.

Atsiri oils come from a wide range of aromatic plants. Common sources include clove (Syzygium aromaticum), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), lemongrass, citronella, patchouli, sandalwood, vetiver, and various citrus peels. The composition of the oils varies by plant species, geography, and extraction method, producing a spectrum of fragrances and chemical profiles.

Uses of atsiri oils span perfumery, flavoring, cosmetics, medicine, aromatherapy, and traditional practices. They are valued for their fragrance, aroma-therapeutic properties, and bioactive constituents. Production methods are chosen based on the plant material and desired components, with steam distillation being the most common technique for many oils.

Economically, the atsiri sector has been an important agricultural and export activity in several Indonesian regions. It involves a range of actors, from smallholder farmers cultivating aromatic crops to manufacturers processing and exporting the oils. Research and development related to atsiri are conducted by universities and national agencies, focusing on cultivation, extraction technology, quality control, and sustainable harvesting to support industry growth.

Notes: In historical and contemporary sources, atsiri may refer specifically to essential oils or to programs and institutions dedicated to aromatic plant research and industry.