Lavender oil, with its myriad benefits and versatile uses, has been cherished for centuries. Whether for aromatherapy, skincare, or simply enjoying its calming fragrance, lavender oil is a staple in many households. The good news is, that you can easily make it at home with just a few ingredients and some patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your lavender oil. There are major benefits of using lavender oil. Lavender oil is renowned for various ways to use lavender oil. It is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, it can aid in sleep, and offer relief for those suffering from insomnia.

Do you suffer from dry skin? Lavender oil helps to soothe skin irritations and inflammation. Lastly, it can relieve headaches and migraines. It can also help fight as an antibacterial and antifungal substance. It’s important to understand the difference between lavender essential oil and lavender-infused oil. Essential oil is extracted directly from the plant through distillation. Infused oil, is made by placing the lavender flowers in oil, which absorbs the essence of the oil. For home preparation, let’s focus on making lavender-infused oil because it does not require specialized equipment.

Lavender Oil Ingredients

To make lavender-infused oil, you’ll need fresh or dried lavender flowers and your favorite oil. For example, it can be olive oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil.

You will also need a clean jar with a lid, a fine mesh strainer, and a dark glass bottle for storing the oil. If you have access to fresh lavender, you can harvest it yourself. The best time to do this is in the early morning when the essential oils are most concentrated in the flowers. All you need to do is cut the lavender stems just above the leaves, and fill your jar with lavender stems about halfway.

If you’re using dried lavender, there is no need to do any harvesting; skip that step. Dried lavender can be purchased from most health food stores or online. Once you have your lavender, remove the flowers from the stems. If using fresh lavender, let it air dry for a day or two to remove excess moisture. This step helps prevent mold growth during the infusion process.

Infuse 

Place the lavender flowers into your clean, dry jar, and make sure the jar is filled halfway with the flowers without packing them too tightly. Pour your favorite oil over the lavender flowers until they are completely submerged in the oil. A pro tip is to leave an inch of space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion. Seal the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to make sure the oil and flowers are well mixed. Store the jar in a cool, dark place, like a cabinet or pantry, for up to 4 weeks or more. During this time, the oil will absorb the lavender’s essence. Remember to shake the jar gently every few days to help the infusion process.

Strain, Store, and Use

After 4 to 6 weeks, your lavender-infused oil is ready to be used. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a clean bowl or another jar, preferably one with dark glass. Dark glass helps protect the oil from light which can affect the quality of the oil. However, if you don’t have a dark glass jar on hand, anything you can seal tightly will do.

Then, pour the oil through the strainer making sure to remove the lavender flowers. Squeeze the flowers to extract as much oil as possible into the jar. It is recommended to use a funnel to pour the lavender oil into a dark glass bottle. Make sure the bottle is sealed tightly. If you properly store the oil it can last for up to a year.

You can use your lavender oil in a variety of ways. Add a few drops to a diffuser or bath to enjoy its calming scent. Or, incorporate the oil into your skincare routine by mixing it into lotions, creams, or directly onto the skin (diluted) to benefit from its soothing ability. Lavender oil can be used as a massage oil to help relax muscles and relieve tension. You can even add a few drops to your DIY candles for a pleasant aroma experience.

Once you’ve mastered the basic method, feel free to experiment with options. Try different carrier oils, such as olive or jojoba oil, to see which one you prefer. You can also blend lavender with other herbs, such as rosemary or chamomile, to create more unique infused oils with a blend of various scents.

How Safe is it to Make Homemade Lavender Oil?

While lavender oil is generally safe for most people, do a skin patch test before using it, especially if you have sensitive skin or known allergies. Always dilute essential oils with our favorite oil before applying them directly to the skin. If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have any health concerns, always talk with your healthcare professional before using lavender oil.

Making your own lavender oil is a rewarding and easy process that allows you to enjoy the many benefits of this natural herb. It only takes a few simple steps, you can create a soothing oil that can be used in different ways. Whether you’re new to DIY projects or an experienced crafter, this guide will help you create a quality lavender-infused oil that you can be proud of.