Essential oil production is an expensive and complex process. It often takes several pounds of raw product just to make 1 oz. of essential oil. As a result, aromatherapy products, which contain these oils, are also expensive. But it is possible to make inexpensive, aromatherapy oils at home with a few simple ingredients from the produce section of your local grocery store.
Step 1
Sterilize the jar and lid. Immerse both in boiling water for 10 minutes, then let them air dry.
Step 2
Roll the rosemary sprigs and peppermint leaves between your hands to express the oils. You don't need to chop the herbs, but do bend the stalks and rub the leaves to release as much oil as possible.
Step 3
Put the herbs in the mason jar and cover the jar with the lid. This will keep the oil vapors contained while you work on the lemon.
Step 4
Zest one whole lemon, taking care not to get any of the white skin underneath. If you do not have a lemon zester, peel the lemon and scrape out as much of the white part as you can. Put the lemon zest in the mason jar, with the rosemary and mint. Cover the jar to contain the aromas. If you would rather not work with a fresh lemon, use 1 tbsp. dried lemon peel.
Step 5
Warm the grapeseed oil in the microwave for 10 seconds. The oil should be very warm but not boiling. You don't want to cook the herbs; you just want the oil warm enough to infuse with the herbs. If the oil is too hot, allow it to cool and then carefully pour the oil into the mason jar with the herbs.
Step 6
Screw the lid onto the mason jar and gently swirl the jar to mix the herbs and start the infusion process.
Step 7
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for a month. At the end of the month, strain the oil into a new, sterilized jar. Your aromatherapy oil is now ready to use.
Tips and Warnings
- Try different combinations of herbs, barks and other spices, such as cinnamon, lavender buds or rose petals. Lime and grapefruit peel also infuse well. For a stronger oil, strain the infused oil into a new sterile container. Prepare the fresh rosemary, mint and lemon peel and add it to the infused oil. Let sit for another month.
- Sunlight makes oil go rancid and degrades the scent. Keep your oils out of direct sunlight.
Things You'll Need
- 1 clear half-pint mason jar with lid
- 1 package fresh rosemary
- 1 package fresh peppermint
- Zest of 1 lemon or 1 tbsp. dried lemon peel
- 1 cup grapeseed oil
References
- The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Valerie Ann Worwood;1991
- The Herbal Home Spa; Greta Breedlove;1998
- Perfumes Splashes and Colognes; Nancy M Booth;1997
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