You can make lavender-infused oil from dried lavender flowers (not leaves) through a simple infusion process using a carrier oil like coconut oil. Here's a breakdown of the steps:
Steps to Make Lavender-Infused Oil
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Harvest and Dry Lavender:
- Cut fresh lavender stems. You'll need enough dried lavender to fill at least 1 ounce.
- Bundle the stems and hang them upside down in a cool, dark, and dry place until completely dried. This typically takes a few weeks. Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator on a low setting.
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Infuse the Oil:
- Place the dried lavender flowers in a clean, dry glass jar.
- Pour a carrier oil (like coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, or jojoba oil) over the lavender flowers, ensuring they are completely submerged. The choice of oil depends on your intended use. Coconut oil will solidify at room temperature, creating a lavender-infused balm. Other oils will remain liquid.
- Seal the jar tightly.
- Shake the jar well.
- Infusion Methods: You have two main options for infusing the oil:
- Slow Infusion (Sun Infusion): Place the jar in a sunny windowsill for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar daily.
- Faster Infusion (Double Boiler): Place the jar (with the lid on loosely) in a pot of water, ensuring the water level is below the lid. Heat the water over low heat for 2-3 hours. Check the water level periodically and add more as needed. This method requires caution to avoid overheating the oil.
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Strain the Oil:
- After the infusion period, strain the oil to remove the lavender flowers.
- Line a strainer with cheesecloth or use a fine-mesh strainer.
- Pour the infused oil through the strainer into a clean glass jar.
- Gently squeeze the cheesecloth (if used) to extract as much oil as possible.
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Storage:
- Store the lavender-infused oil in a clean, airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life. Properly stored, it can last for several months.
Important Notes:
- Use Dried Flowers, Not Leaves: This method is designed for the flowers of the lavender plant, not the leaves. The flowers contain the aromatic compounds that provide the scent and therapeutic properties.
- Hygiene is Key: Ensure all jars and equipment are thoroughly clean and dry to prevent contamination.
- Testing: Always do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the infused oil liberally to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction.
