MAKRUT LIME ESSENTIAL OIL - The South Asian citrus star (artisan high quality distillation)

This is a small batch distillation of organic makrut / thai / kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix), made by an artisan oud distiller in a distillation setting we helped building.

The full fruits were used, and distilled for 3 continuous days (and nights) at low temperature & low pressure, hence allowing the heavier and more complex volatiles to pass down the distillation apparatus.

Makrut lime has a much more complex profile than regular limes. The fragrant profile is made of different facets of the green slice of the citrus rainbow : part herbal with hints of oakmoss, and a distinctive earthiness. It is also part zesty, part fruity (green citrus) and overall lush : a fragrant South East Asian green jungle of its own. There is not a sweet note, except in a more abstract way, as it is a feelgood oil, both energy laden and gentle, due to the the slow cooking distillation

If you know and enjoy thai / makrut / kaffir (all synonyms) lime fruit : you will recognize its unmistakable distinctiveness.

If you don't is is hard to describe: it is not a simple "zingy" or "fruity" citrus, but a more complex, almost formal, deeper creature ; infused of its South East Asian terroir and full of nuances : earthy yet very fragrant, herbal bitter yet bright, jammy but not sweet in any way.

Known by different names, Citrus Hystrix is ubiquitous in South East Asian cuisine (both rinds and leaves are used; the leaves are a staple of Thai cuisine). It has also rich medicinal traditions. 

Though without proof, it is thought that the common Kaffir Lime name, based on a derogative slur, was invented by Indian Muslims merchants to convey "otherness and exotic provenance" thus extra appeal to the fruit, imported from the non-Muslim lands to the South East of Asia.