Islamic distillation technology

Timeline

1. c. 800–815Kufa · IraqJabir ibn Hayyan described methods of separating volatile components using an alembic, condenser, and multi-chambered distillers in his works, elevating distillation from an empirical operation to a repeatable, recordable experimental technique.
2. c. 865–925Rayy · IranRazi systematically recorded the steps of distilling essential oils and medicinal distillates in works such as The Secret of Secrets, applying distillation widely to clinical pharmacy and chemical experiments, with far-reaching influence.
3. c. 880–900Damascus · SyriaWorkshops in Syria and Persia produced rose water, spice essential oils, and alcohol solvents by distillation; distillation apparatus became standard equipment for pharmacy and the spice trade, and the technology spread along trade routes to North Africa and the Mediterranean.