You will need plant material in the form of herbs of flowers, depending on the type of essential oil you’re making. For basil essential oil, for example, use basil herbs. For rose essential oil, use rose petals. You can find herbs or flowers at a local grocery store or florist. Make sure any flowers you use are grown organically, as pesticides may be harmful to the skin. Get a large amount of whatever herb or flower you’re using, as only a small amount of essential oils can be extracted at a time. You will need two non-metal containers, such as ceramic crocks. You’ll also need a strainer. You will need sealable bottles to store your mixture when you’re finished. You’ll need a carrier oil, like canola or olive oil. If you want to use alcohol instead, aim for ethyl alcohol. If you cannot find this, you can also use unflavored vodka.
A high cabinet, which can be closed easily, is a good option if you have small children or pets. Let other household members know you’re making essential oils so they know not to disturb the container.
Press the plant material lightly with your hand to squeeze out any excess liquid. This will result in more oils being released. If you’re using a large container, have someone else hold the other container while you pour to make sure nothing spills.
Essential oils can be harmful if swallowed. If you have young children capable of opening bottles, make sure to store your oils out of their reach. You should also be careful not to store the oils out of reach of household pets, like dogs, that could chew through a container.
Plant material from your chosen essential oils A crock pot A glass container A piece of cloth
You should use just enough plant material that it comfortably fits in the crock pot with distilled water.
Be careful where you leave the crock pot. Crockpots cook at low temperatures, and are generally safe to leave on when your’e not home. However, make sure to keep the crock pot in a safe place away from flammable materials.
As you’re leaving your crock pot open, it’s important to find a safe place for it. This is particularly important if you have children or pets, as the water from the crock pot should not be ingested. A high cabinet, which closes safely, may be your best option. Let other household members know you are making essential oils and they are not to disturb the crock pot.
You can use a cooking spoon or regular spoon to remove the oil. It may take quite a few scoops before you get all the oil. Be careful to collect only the essential oil, and not any water or plant material.
As with the crock pot, it’s vital that you take precaution when storing your container. Keep it out of reach of children and pets and place it in an area where it will not be disturbed. Your essential oil should last for about 12 months. Place it in a sealable container after 24 hours have passed.
Someone to help you, as this method requires two people A cotton and linen bag, as well as string to tie it shut Distilled water A pot A dark glass container A piece of cloth
It’s a good idea to do this on the weekends, as no one will have work obligations requiring them to wake up early. If you’re watching the pot late at night, make sure you’re well rested. Use coffee and other caffeinated beverages to keep you alert as you watch the pot. If you fall asleep on duty, the stove could start a fire.
Squeeze the bag a little after collecting the initial oil. There may be a bit of essential oil still inside the bag.
Be careful where you store your container for the 24 hour period. You do not want children or pets to drink the water. Keep it in a safe place, out of reach of others.
Usually, you should aim for 3 to 10% dilution. Children, however, and people with sensitive skin should use only 1% dilutions of essential oil.
