Absolutes are similar to essential oils and are highly aromatic. They differ in the way in which they are extracted or distilled. Absolutes such as Rose or Jasmine are obtained via solvent (alcohol) distillation. This process requires little if any heat to extract the flowers liquid essence. After distillation the liquid is further processed to remove the alcohol, this requires a minimal amount of heat. Absolutes are generally rare or delicate plant species, particularly the flowering plant varieties. Flowering plants promptly lose their sweet scent when excessive heat is applied, this is why they are difficult and expensive to obtain. Absolutes can vary from a liquid composition to a paste or even a solid depending on the plant variety.