Thursday, January 30, 2014

Make your own Lavender Infused Essential Oil

Lavender oil can be used for so many things! It is wonderful on many skin issues such as burns, stings, bites, and scrapes. Its aromatherapy properties help you relax, and its great for tension headaches, allergies and so much more! The Essential oil is more potent but the infused oil (like this recipe) works also. Just rub it on your skin and it will be absorbed. 


1. Choose a base oil, use a refined oil to attract the essential oils of the plant. Choose one that has pale color and mild scent. Olive oil, safflower oil and light sesame oil all work well. Or you can use almond oil for cosmetics, safflower or canola for general purposes, and olive oil for cooking.


2.  Two teaspoons of dried, ground herbs is equivalent to three or four sprigs of fresh herbs. Although some recipes may vary, the basic rule of carrier oil to herbs or flowers is one cup of carrier oil to every 1/4 ounce of dried or flowers. If you are using fresh flowers or herbs, it is best to bruise them (gently smush them a bit) The ratio for using fresh flowers or herbs is one cup of carrier oil to 1/4 cup of lavender. 

3. Place the oil and the herbs in the crock pot on low heat, approximately 140 degrees Fahrenheit, for six to eight hours. I used my mini crock pot and let the herbs infuse overnight. 



4. Strain the mixture - Using unbleached cheesecloth, muslin or gauze, strain into a dark colored glass storage jar or bottle.

5. Store the essential oil in a place that is cool, dark and dry - Most homemade essential oils have a shelf life of six to nine months depending on the specific blends.

No comments:

Post a Comment