Abstract
Extraction methods to obtain essential oils are usually influenced by many parameters. The optimization of the process is crucial because the extraction yield is low, i.e., less than 5 %. Fortunately, there are different ways to obtain essential oils and therefore to optimize the process. This article reviews recent studies regarding the use of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in the optimization of essential oils extraction. It attempts to detail the important parameters of both innovative methods and conventional methods. Even when the essential oil extraction yield is the most common optimized response in these publications, lately the concentration of any chemical compound of interest and/or the antioxidant activity of the essential oils are also candidates for optimization. In addition, not only a high yield of essential oil is desirable but also a high quality due to its final application. In this review, we cover a comprehensive overview of the studies made about the optimization of essential oils extracted from plants that use the RSM. This document was elaborated through a comprehensive and systematic review of the literature published between 2010 to 2020.