MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC CROPS (2+1)

Present status

The world’s total production of essential oils is estimated at about 1,00,000 – 110000 t, and India stands third with a share of 16-17%. In value terms again, India’s position is No.2 and its share is 21-22%. This is because of the mint revolution in North India. Brazil with its production of citrus oil at 40000 t is the largest producer of essential oils in the world. However, its share in value terms is 90% while USA is the largest producer and consumer of essential oils.

Most of the essential oils produced are marketed within the country. Also, many of them are exported. These oils are very expensive and earn good revenue in terms of foreign exchange.

The export of perfumery products from India has risen to Rs. 630.28 crores during 2000-01. India also imports some of these items worth nearly Rs.265.58 crores annually. Among the essential oils exported from India are Japanese mint oil, peppermint oil, sandalwood oil, jasmine and tuberose concretes and many other natural and synthetic perfumes in small quantities. Besides menthol, attars (all-kinds), red sandalwood powder, synthetic camphor, thymol, pepper oil ginger oil, davana oil and spearmint oil are also exported. India also imports a variety of essential oils such as geranium, anise, patchouli, orange, lavender, nutmeg, peppermint, citronella (Java), synthetic essential oils, etc, along with many other natural and synthetic perfumes.