Lavender Extract: How to Make, Uses, and Benefits

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Learn how to make lavender extract at home and discover its many benefits and uses for baking, skincare, aromatherapy, and natural remedies.

Lavender extract is a powerful, fragrant liquid made by infusing lavender flowers in alcohol. It captures the soothing, floral aroma of lavender, making it perfect for baking, skincare, aromatherapy, and medicinal purposes. While you can buy lavender extract in stores, making it at home is easy, cost-effective, and ensures a pure, chemical-free product.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

✔️ How to make lavender extract at home
✔️ The best ingredients and methods for extraction
✔️ Lavender extract uses in cooking, skincare, and wellness
✔️ Where to buy high-quality lavender extract

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about lavender extract! 🌿💜

1. What is Lavender Extract?

Lavender extract is made by steeping dried lavender flowers in alcohol, which draws out its essential oils and active compounds. The result is a highly concentrated liquid with a strong lavender flavor and aroma.

Types of Lavender Extract:

🌿 Alcohol-Based Lavender Extract – Made by infusing lavender in vodka, rum, or food-grade alcohol.
🌿 Oil-Based Lavender Extract – Uses carrier oils (like almond or olive oil) instead of alcohol.
🌿 Glycerin-Based Lavender Extract – A non-alcoholic option using food-grade glycerin.

Tip: Alcohol-based extracts are best for cooking, while oil-based extracts are ideal for skincare and massage oils.

2. How to Make Lavender Extract at Home

Ingredients & Supplies:

✔️ 1 cup of dried lavender flowers (or 2 cups fresh lavender)
✔️ 2 cups of vodka, rum, or food-grade alcohol
✔️ A glass jar with a tight lid
✔️ A fine-mesh 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 the essential oils.

Step 2: Combine Lavender & Alcohol

• Place lavender flowers in a clean glass jar.
• Pour vodka or alcohol over the lavender until fully submerged.
• Seal the jar tightly.

Step 3: Infusion Process

• Store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking gently every few days.

Step 4: Strain & Store

• After infusion, strain out the lavender flowers using a fine-mesh strainer.
• Transfer the lavender extract to a dark glass bottle for storage.

Tip: Lavender extract lasts up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dark place.

3. How to Use Lavender Extract

Lavender extract is versatile, offering benefits for cooking, skincare, and wellness.

Cooking & Baking Uses

🌿 Lavender-Infused Desserts – Use in cakes, cookies, and ice cream for a floral twist.
🌸 Lavender Syrup – Add to coffee, cocktails, and lemonade.
🍪 Lavender Shortbread – Enhances buttery cookies with a unique floral flavor.

Tip: Use only a few drops in recipes to avoid an overpowering taste.

Skincare & Beauty Uses

✔️ DIY Toners & Face Mists – Helps soothe irritated skin and acne.
✔️ Massage Oils & Lotions – Mix with carrier oils for a calming effect.
✔️ Lavender Bath Soak – Add to bathwater for relaxation.

Tip: Avoid direct skin application—always dilute with a carrier oil.

Aromatherapy & Wellness Uses

✔️ Calms Anxiety & Stress – Add to a diffuser or pillow spray.
✔️ Headache Relief – Apply diluted extract to temples.
✔️ Sleep Aid – Promotes better sleep when used in room sprays.

Tip: Combine with chamomile or peppermint extract for added relaxation benefits.

4. Where to Buy Lavender Extract

If you prefer to buy lavender extract instead of making it, there are several trusted brands available in the UK.

Best Online Stores for Lavender Extract

🛍️ Amazon UK – Stocks a variety of culinary lavender extracts.
🌿 Holland & Barrett – Specialises in natural, food-grade lavender extracts.
🌸 Neal’s Yard Remedies – Offers organic lavender extracts for skincare.
🌱 Baldwins – Sells high-quality herbal extracts and tinctures.

Tip: Choose 100% natural, alcohol-based extracts for cooking and therapeutic use.

5. Lavender Extract vs. Lavender Essential Oil: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse lavender extract with lavender essential oil, but they are not the same.

Tip: If you need lavender for cooking, use lavender extract—not essential oil!

6. How to Store Lavender Extract

✔️ Use dark glass bottles – Protects from light exposure.
✔️ Store in a cool, dry place – Keeps extract fresh for up to 2 years.
✔️ Shake before use – Ensures even distribution of lavender compounds.

Tip: Keep lavender extract away from direct sunlight to preserve its potency.

FAQs: Making & Using Lavender Extract

Can I use fresh lavender to make extract?
✔️ Yes, but dry it first to prevent mold during infusion.

How long does homemade lavender extract last?
✔️ Up to 2 years if stored properly in a dark glass bottle.

Is lavender extract safe to eat?
✔️ Yes, if made with food-grade alcohol. Essential oils, however, should not be ingested.

Can I use lavender extract on my skin?
✔️ Yes, but dilute it with a carrier oil before applying to skin.

What’s the difference between lavender extract and essential oil?
✔️ Lavender extract is milder and safe for cooking, while essential oil is highly concentrated and not edible.

Final Thoughts: How to Make & Use Lavender Extract

✔️ Lavender extract is easy to make at home using dried lavender and alcohol.
✔️ Use it in baking, skincare, aromatherapy, and wellness routines.
✔️ Buy high-quality lavender extract online or in health stores.
✔️ Store in a dark glass bottle to preserve its potency.
✔️ Choose lavender extract over essential oil for edible recipes.

Lavender extract is a fantastic, multi-purpose natural ingredient that enhances food, skincare, and relaxation. Whether you make it yourself or buy it ready-made, it’s a must-have in any natural wellness collection! 🌿💜

Have you used lavender extract before? Share your favorite uses in the comments!

Now you’re ready to make and use lavender extract! 🌿💜 Let me know if you have any questions! 🚀