Application of response surface methodology and central composite design for the optimisation of supercritical fluid extraction of essential oils from Myrtus communis L. leaves

► An experimental design was developed to optimise the factors of SFE. ► The obtained essential oils of Myrtus communis by HD and SFE were compared. ► SFE is more selective than the hydrodistillation method. ► SFE requires a short extraction time and decrease or no use of organic solvents.