It has been unexpectedly found that the solvent extracted aromatic cut of heavy vacuum gas oil can be oxidized to produce an adhesive composition that has all the needed attributes of a self seal adhesive for asphalt roofing shingles. This adhesive composition does not require any volatile organic solvents and is accordingly environmentally friendly. It does not contain any asphalt or polymers and will not phase separate. Thus, it offers excellent long term stability. Additionally, it is made by the simple oxidation of the solvent extracted aromatic cut of heavy vacuum gas oil and is accordingly relatively inexpensive. The subject invention more specifically reveals an asphaltic roofing shingle comprising a back surface and an exposure surface, wherein the back surface is covered with an oxidized solvent extracted aromatic cut of heavy vacuum gas oil.