Optimization of supercritical CO2 extraction of Thymbra spicata oil

The supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of aroma compounds from Thymbra spicata was studied. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the parameters of the supercritical fluid extraction. Independent variables were temperature (40, 50 and 60 degreesC), pressure (80, 100 and 120 bar) and time (30, 60 and 90 min). Dependent variables were yield, monoterpene, sesquiterpene and oxygenated monoterpene contents