Awesome Aromas: Make Your Own Essential Oil
But as breathtaking as essential oils are, have you ever tried to make your own essential oils? What about absolute oils?
Used for fragrances and aromatherapy, absolutes are similar to essential oils but are usually more concentrated and aromatic. If you haven’t tried your hand at these scented wonders, it’s time you give your nose something to feel happy about.
Better yet, you can try making a few at home to make the experience all the more rewarding (and fun!).
The major Difference between essential oils and absolutes is the production process. While essential oils are usually pressed or steamed, absolutes use the extraction method.
We suggest you make vanilla, orange and lemon absolutes. These are all great to use in potpourri or to make aromatherapy candles. The Benefits of vanilla include relaxation and components that act as an aphrodisiac, whereas the scent of the citric fruits can ward off depression and stress, and give you an extra boost of energy.
What You Need
- Brandy
- Vodka
- Several orange peels, pith removed
- Several lemon peels, pith removed
- 4-5 vanilla pods
- 3 Jars
- 3 Dark glass containers to store your oils in
How to Do It
- Cut the vanilla pods lengthwise and scrape out the beans from inside. Place the emptied out pods in a jar. Place your orange and lemon peels in separate jars.
- Fill each jar to the brim with the alcohol: Brandy for vanilla and Vodka for the citruses. Tightly screw on the lid.
- Let it sit and soak in a cool dark place for about two weeks. Shake the jars daily.
- After approximately 14 days, pour the mixtures into separate wide containers and allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- Using a cheesecloth or coffee filter, collect the oil into the dark glass containers. This should last you about 6 months.
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