Guest Author - Rebecca Lee Graf
Many recipes call for essential oils. In looking for them, we gasp at the price of some of them. What you are looking for are affordable essential oils. Believe it or not you can learn to make them at home.
Essential oils are concentrations of the herbs. What could be taken in an herbal extract is much weaker that you will get in an herbal essential oil mixture. Essential oils are used in cosmetics, medicinal concoctions, soaps, and even fragrances.
The base of all essential oils is a high quality oil. You can use oils such as almond oil, saffron oil, or olive oil. You want the best quality that you can find. For every ounce of herbs that you are using, plan on using four ounces of oil.
At this point, heat is needed. Place the mixtures into a crockpot or in a jar to allow the warm sun to heat it. Let it heat for at least four hours. Strain your mixture and place in bottles with droppers in the top.
Be very careful when you are using essential oils. They are highly concentrated which means that an herb that is harmless could be dangerous in the concentrated state. Read instructions and be knowledgeable in the herbs that you are using.
This is just one way to make your own herbal essential oils. Some use steam to make it, but this method requires purchased tools and a dedicated place to make your oils. If you can do that, wonderful. If not, you can use this easy method.
There are many herbs that can be used in making essential oils. There are the obvious flowers such as roses, jasmine, and orchid. Making floral essential oils can be a lot of fun but be aware that a large number of the petals need to be obtained to get just one ounce of essential oil.
If you are looking specifically for herbs to make essential oils with, check these out:
Angelica
Amyris
Angelica
Anise Seed
Balsam Peru
Cajeput
Camphor White
Caraway
Cardamom
Carrot Seed
Catnip
Cedarwood
Celery Seed
Chamomile
Cilantro
Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamon Leaf
Cistus
Fennel
Fir Needle
Frankincense
Galbanum
Geranium
Ginger
Grapefruit
Helichrysum
Ho Wood
Hops
Hyssop
Peppermint
Ravensara
Rose
Rosemary
Rosewood
Sage
Sandalwood
Savory
Spearmint
Spikenard
Spruce
St. Johns Wort
Tagetes
Tangerine
Tarragon
Tea Tree
NOTE: These are nature’s drugs and should be treated with care and caution. Consult your physician, pharmacist, or certified herbalist to know more.
