Muğla residents preserve traditional herbal oil production

In the Çamlıca neighborhood of Yatağan, Muğla, Arzu Tok and her mother-in-law Durdane Tok are maintaining a multi-generational family tradition of producing herbal oils and aromatic waters. Using methods passed down from Arzu’s late father-in-law, the pair processes plants gathered from local mountains, including thyme, laurel, myrtle, and juniper.

The production process utilizes traditional copper cauldrons. The plants are placed inside the cauldrons, which are then sealed with mud to prevent air from entering. Heat from a fire underneath creates steam that is directed through a dripping system. A water-cooled channel then condenses the steam into essential oils and plant waters.

The family stated that the production is not intended for commercial profit. Instead, they continue the practice to honor their heritage and provide products to local community members in need. Durdane Tok noted that neighbors often come to them for specific remedies, such as thyme oil for various ailments.