Oxidized disulfide oil (ODSO) compounds, derived from by-product disulfide oil (DSO) compounds produced as by-products from the generalized mercaptan oxidation (MEROX) in the practice of the process, are effective as aromatic extraction solvents. This use of ODSO compounds as an extraction solvent converts an otherwise DSO waste oil product into a valuable commodity that has utility in improving the extraction of aromatics from hydrocarbons derived from fossil fuels.