Homemade oils are a good natural and healthy alternative to other types of oils that are better known and much more harmful to health. Homemade oils are going to be made with natural ingredients and without any chemical additives, making them a perfect option for those people looking for a much healthier lifestyle.
In the following article we are going to teach you to make different homemade oils, that you can use in the kitchen, to scent your home or to care for your skin.
Homemade oil classes
There are three types of homemade oils:
- Essential oils They will be extracted from different aromatic plants and will be used mainly for personal care and aromatherapy.
- Infused oils They are vegetable oils to which spices or fruits are added to achieve a greater aroma. They are often used in cooking and in the field of cosmetics.
- Cosmetic oils They are made with completely natural ingredients and are usually used to moisturize both skin and hair.
What is needed to make homemade oils?
If you want to make your own homemade oil you will need the following:
- Base oil, which can be olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, etc.
- Spices or fresh herbs.
- Airtight glass jars.
- A mortar.
- A fine strainer.
How to make infused oils
These kinds of oils are perfect for use both in the kitchen or for skin careInfused oils can be made using the following methods:
cold maceration
First, you need to choose the ingredients you want, such as spices or dried herbs. Then, take the glass jar and add the ingredients you want along with the base oil. Cover the jar and store in a dark place. for a month and a half. You can shake the bottle every 4 or 5 days. Finally, strain the oil through a fine sieve and pour it into another bottle.
Water bath
Choose the spices or dried herbs you want. Next, take a pot and heat water in it. Put the jar with the ingredients and the oil inside the pot. Leave it on low heat for a couple of hours. Finally, let it cool and filter the oil before storing it.
How to make essential oils
Essential oils are going to require a much more elaborate extraction than other types of homemade and natural oils:
First, you need to have all your materials ready: a large pot with a lid, a bowl that can withstand heat, water, and herbs. Next, fill the pot with water and place the bowl inside. Add the herbs around the bowl. Turn the lid of the pot upside down and add ice. Then simmer for a couple of hours.
With the heat, the steam will condense on the lid and drip into the bowl. The liquid that is obtained inside the bowl will contain the essential oil. Finally, You must remove all the water and put the oil in a tightly sealed jar.
How to make homemade cosmetic oils
These kinds of oils are perfect when it comes to to nourish the skin and hair. Don't miss out on these two recipes to make your own homemade cosmetic oil:
Lavender oil
This type of oil is perfect for relaxing. You will need 100 ml of almond oil and two tablespoons of dried lavender flowers. First you must infuse the flowers in the oil. using the cold maceration method. Filter the oil and store it in a glass jar.
Coconut oil and rosemary
This type of oil will allow you to take care of your hair and keep it in perfect condition. You will need 100 ml of coconut oil and a tablespoon of dried rosemary. As for the procedure, you should start by melting the coconut oil Bain-marie and add the rosemary. Let it infuse for about 30 minutes. Filter everything and store the oil in a dark, airtight jar.
Some tips or recommendations to optimally preserve homemade oils
- It is important that you store the oils in dark jars in order to avoid possible oxidation.
- Keep the bottle in place that is cool and dry.
- It's advisable put labels on it to the jars with the date of manufacture.
- It is best to use oils that are fresh to obtain the best possible results.
Ultimately, making homemade oils is a great way to take advantage of the natural benefits of both plants and spices. You can use these oils for cooking, aromatherapy or skin care. If you follow all these tips you will be able to make your own oils that are completely homemade, natural and free of chemical additives.