Making rosemary oil from a plant is simple to make right at home using a natural infusion method. You essentially combine dried rosemary leaves with a carrier oil and allow time for the beneficial compounds to transfer.
Simple Solar Infusion Method
This method, sometimes referred to as solar-infused Rosemary oil, relies on gentle warmth from the sun to aid the infusion process.
Here's how you can make it:
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Gather Your Ingredients:
- Dried rosemary leaves from your plant (ensure they are thoroughly dried to prevent spoisture).
- Olive oil (a good quality extra virgin olive oil works well).
- A clean glass jar with a lid.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Fill your clean glass jar about halfway or two-thirds full with the dried rosemary leaves.
- Pour olive oil over the leaves, ensuring they are completely submerged. Fill the jar leaving a little headspace at the top.
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Infuse in the Sun:
- Seal the jar tightly with the lid.
- Place the jar on a sunny windowsill. The warmth from the sun helps the oil absorb the properties from the rosemary.
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Wait and Shake:
- Leave the jar on the sunny windowsill for a few weeks (typically 2-4 weeks).
- Gently shake the jar every few days to help distribute the rosemary and encourage infusion.
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Strain the Oil:
- After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bottle or jar. Discard the spent rosemary leaves.
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Store:
- Cap the infused oil tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.
This process allows the olive oil to infuse with the aromatic compounds and beneficial properties of the dried rosemary leaves.
Here's a quick summary:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Dried Rosemary Leaves, Olive Oil |
| Primary Equipment | Glass Jar with Lid |
| Infusion Location | Sunny Windowsill |
| Infusion Time | A few weeks |
| Method Type | Solar Infusion |
Using dried herbs is crucial in oil infusions to prevent mold and bacterial growth that can occur with fresh, water-containing plant material. Once strained, this homemade rosemary oil can be used for various purposes.
