How to Make Lavender Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Essential Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most popular natural remedies, known for its calming, antibacterial, and aromatic properties. Whether you’re making lavender-infused oil for skincare or attempting to create lavender essential oil, this guide will show you exactly how to do it at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔️ How to make lavender-infused oil with fresh or dried lavender
✔️ How to extract lavender essential oil at home
✔️ The best carrier oils for lavender oil making
✔️ How to store and use homemade lavender oil
Let’s get started with your homemade lavender oil! ??
1. What is Lavender Oil?
Lavender oil comes in two forms:
? Lavender-Infused Oil – Made by steeping lavender flowers in a carrier oil for several weeks.
? Lavender Essential Oil – Extracted through steam distillation, producing a concentrated, highly aromatic oil.
Tip: Most DIY methods focus on lavender-infused oil, as making true essential oil requires special equipment.
2. How to Make Lavender-Infused Oil (Easiest Method)
This is the simplest way to make lavender oil, using fresh or dried lavender and a carrier oil.
Ingredients & Supplies:
✔️ 1 cup of dried or fresh lavender flowers
✔️ 2 cups of carrier oil (olive oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil)
✔️ A glass jar with a lid
✔️ A strainer or cheesecloth
✔️ A dark glass bottle for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lavender
- If using fresh lavender, dry it first to prevent mold.
- Lightly crush the flowers to release their natural oils.
Step 2: Combine Lavender and Oil
- Place the lavender flowers in a clean glass jar.
- Pour your carrier oil over the flowers until fully submerged.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
- Cover the jar with a lid and shake gently.
- Store in a warm, sunny spot (like a windowsill) for 2–4 weeks, shaking it daily.
Step 4: Strain the Oil
- After infusion, strain out the lavender flowers using cheesecloth or a fine strainer.
- Pour the infused oil into a dark glass bottle to preserve its potency.
Tip: Store your homemade lavender oil in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life (up to 6 months).
3. How to Make Lavender Essential Oil (Advanced Method)
Making true lavender essential oil requires steam distillation, which extracts pure, concentrated oil.
What You Need:
✔️ Fresh lavender flowers (at least 2 cups)
✔️ Distillation kit or DIY steam distillation setup
✔️ Filtered water
✔️ Glass jar for collection
Steps to Make Lavender Essential Oil:
Step 1: Harvest & Dry the Lavender
- Harvest lavender flowers early in the morning for the strongest aroma.
- Allow them to dry for a few days before distillation.
Step 2: Prepare the Distillation Setup
- Place water and lavender flowers in the distillation chamber.
- Heat gently to produce steam, which carries the lavender oil.
Step 3: Collect the Oil
- As the steam cools, it separates into water and oil.
- The top layer is pure lavender essential oil, which should be carefully separated.
Step 4: Store the Essential Oil
- Use dark glass bottles and store them in a cool, dark place.
- Essential oil lasts for years if stored properly.
Tip: The remaining lavender water (hydrosol) can be used as a linen spray or facial toner!
4. Best Carrier Oils for Making Lavender Oil
Using a high-quality carrier oil enhances the benefits of your lavender-infused oil.
Top Carrier Oils:
? Coconut Oil – Antibacterial and deeply moisturizing.
? Jojoba Oil – Closest to the skin’s natural oils.
? Sunflower Oil – Light and absorbs quickly.
? Olive Oil – Rich and nourishing, best for dry skin.
? Almond Oil – Great for sensitive skin and massage.
Tip: Choose a cold-pressed, organic carrier oil for the best results.
5. How to Use Homemade Lavender Oil
Your DIY lavender oil has multiple uses, from skincare to aromatherapy.
Lavender Oil for Skin & Hair
✔️ Massage Oil – Relaxes muscles and relieves tension.
✔️ Moisturizer – Helps soothe dry, irritated skin.
✔️ Acne Treatment – Reduces redness and inflammation.
✔️ Hair Growth Oil – Strengthens hair and reduces dandruff.
Lavender Oil for Aromatherapy & Relaxation
✔️ Stress Relief – Apply to pulse points or use in a diffuser.
✔️ Sleep Aid – Massage onto temples before bedtime.
✔️ Headache Relief – Rub onto forehead and neck.
Lavender Oil for Household Use
✔️ Natural Insect Repellent – Keeps mosquitoes and moths away.
✔️ DIY Candles & Soaps – Adds a relaxing scent.
✔️ Linen Spray – Mix with water for fresh-smelling clothes.
Tip: Add a few drops of lavender oil to your bath for a calming soak.
FAQs: Making Lavender Oil at Home
Can I use fresh lavender to make oil?
✔️ Yes, but dried lavender is better as it prevents mold during infusion.
How long does homemade lavender oil last?
✔️ Lavender-infused oil lasts up to 6 months, while essential oil lasts years if stored properly.
Which carrier oil is best for lavender oil?
✔️ Jojoba, coconut, almond, and olive oil are all excellent choices.
Can I use lavender oil on my face?
✔️ Yes! It helps soothe acne, inflammation, and dry skin.
How do I make lavender essential oil without a distiller?
✔️ You can’t make true essential oil without a distiller, but lavender-infused oil is a great alternative.
Final Thoughts: How to Make Lavender Oil at Home
✔️ Lavender-infused oil is easy to make and can be used for skincare, relaxation, and aromatherapy.
✔️ True lavender essential oil requires steam distillation, but it’s worth the effort for a concentrated, therapeutic oil.
✔️ Choosing the right carrier oil enhances the quality and benefits of homemade lavender oil.
✔️ Store lavender oil in dark glass bottles to extend shelf life.
Making your own lavender oil is a simple, rewarding process that allows you to enjoy its natural benefits anytime. Whether for self-care, wellness, or home use, lavender oil is a must-have addition to your natural remedies! ??
Have you made lavender oil before? Share your experience in the comments!
Now you’re ready to make your own lavender oil! ?? Let me know if you have any questions! ?