Lavender has always held a special place in my life. From the first time I inhaled its soft, herbaceous scent, I was drawn in. Its calming presence has seen me through restless nights, stressful days, and even skin irritations. Over time, my fascination with natural remedies led me to explore how I could incorporate lavender into something more versatile—and that’s when I learned to make your own lavender infused oil.
Creating this oil at home has become more than just a hobby for me—it’s a form of therapy, a ritual that connects me to the plants I use and the wellness practices I value. In this article, I’ll walk you through my entire process, from choosing ingredients to storing the finished oil, along with some insights and lessons I’ve picked up along the way.
Why I Decided to Make Lavender Oil Myself
Before I knew how to make your own lavender infused oil, I used to buy it from artisan shops and essential oil vendors. But I started questioning what was really in those products. Were they diluted? Were synthetic fragrances added? Did the oils come from sustainable sources?
These questions pushed me toward a more hands-on approach. I realized that by making the oil myself, I’d not only gain full control over the ingredients, but I’d also form a deeper relationship with the process. That intimacy—knowing every step and ingredient—makes all the difference in how I feel when I use it.
Picking the Right Type of Lavender
When you’re about to make your own lavender infused oil, the quality of your lavender makes a huge impact on the final product. I always go for dried lavender buds from English lavender, also known by its botanical name Lavandula angustifolia. It has the classic fragrance most people associate with lavender and contains high amounts of the calming compound linalool.
While some people experiment with other varieties like French or Spanish lavender, I’ve found that English lavender offers the most soothing aroma and is generally safe for skin applications.
I also stick to dried lavender rather than fresh. Fresh blooms contain moisture, and when sealed in oil, that moisture can lead to mold or spoilage. Drying preserves the plant and ensures a longer-lasting, mold-free infusion.
Choosing the Ideal Carrier Oil
Equally important to the process is your carrier oil—the base that extracts and holds the lavender’s beneficial compounds. The one you pick will influence everything from scent to skin feel.
Here are the ones I’ve used:
- Sunflower oil: Light, affordable, and great for sensitive skin.
- Jojoba oil: More of a wax than an oil, but it mimics the skin’s natural sebum and has a long shelf life.
- Sweet almond oil: Gently moisturizing and ideal for massage.
- Olive oil: Rich and nourishing, perfect for dry skin and scalp treatments.
I usually choose organic, cold-pressed options to preserve the integrity of both the oil and the lavender I’m infusing.
My Favorite Infusion Method
There are a few ways you can make your own lavender infused oil, but I’ve gravitated toward a slow, room-temperature infusion because of its simplicity and low risk. Here’s the method I follow religiously.
Step 1: Sanitize Everything
Before starting, I thoroughly wash and dry all my materials—glass jars, lids, strainers, and spoons. Sanitation is essential to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of your oil.
Step 2: Add Dried Lavender to the Jar
I fill a clean jar about halfway with dried lavender buds. You want enough lavender to extract a strong scent but not so much that it clumps together and doesn’t allow the oil to flow.
Step 3: Pour in the Carrier Oil
Once the lavender is in place, I slowly pour in my carrier oil until the jar is nearly full, leaving just a bit of room at the top to allow for shaking. Every bud needs to be completely submerged in oil to prevent oxidation or mold.
Step 4: Steep the Oil
I tightly close the jar and place it in a sunny windowsill or warm spot for four to six weeks. Once a day, I give the jar a little shake to stir the contents and help the lavender release its natural oils into the carrier.
Step 5: Strain and Store
After the steeping period, I strain the oil using a few layers of cheesecloth over a clean bowl. Then, I transfer the clear, golden liquid into amber glass bottles, label them with the date, and store them in a dark cabinet.
How I Use My Lavender Infused Oil Daily
After you make your own lavender infused oil, you’ll find dozens of ways to use it. It’s gentle, fragrant, and incredibly versatile. Here are some of the ways I incorporate it into my routine:
Calming Nighttime Ritual
Every night before bed, I rub a small amount into my temples and neck. It helps settle my thoughts and makes winding down easier. Sometimes I’ll even massage a little into my feet—something about that small act feels nurturing and grounding.
Nourishing Skin Treatment
This oil is amazing for dry or irritated skin. I apply it to elbows, knees, and hands, especially in the colder months when everything feels parched.
Bath Soak Booster
A tablespoon in my bath water turns a basic soak into a luxurious experience. The scent fills the room and the oil leaves my skin feeling silky.
Scalp and Hair Care
When my scalp feels dry or itchy, I massage the oil in and let it sit for 30 minutes before shampooing. It soothes the skin and adds shine to my hair.
DIY Healing Salves
I also use it as a base for salves or creams I make with beeswax and other botanicals. It adds both scent and therapeutic properties to my homemade skin products.
The Therapeutic Benefits I’ve Noticed
Ever since I learned how to make your own lavender infused oil, I’ve paid more attention to how my body reacts to natural remedies. Here are a few changes I’ve noticed personally:
- Reduced stress levels: Even the act of preparing the oil is meditative. When I use it, I feel calmer and more in tune with my body.
- Better skin health: My hands used to be constantly dry and cracked. Regular use of the oil has significantly improved their texture.
- Improved sleep: The relaxing properties of lavender are no myth. When I use the oil as part of my bedtime routine, I tend to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Natural pain relief: On days when my muscles ache from too much sitting or exercise, massaging a bit of the oil into sore areas helps relieve tension.
Practical Tips for First-Time Infusers
If you’re ready to make your own lavender infused oil, here are some practical tips based on my experiences:
- Always use a clean, dry jar to avoid contamination.
- Label your jar with the start date so you know how long it’s been steeping.
- Store the finished product in a cool, dark place to prevent it from going rancid.
- If you notice cloudiness, unusual smells, or mold, discard the oil and start again with fresh materials.
- For a stronger scent, you can do a second infusion by adding fresh lavender buds to your already strained oil.
Final Thoughts on This DIY Practice
Taking the time to make your own lavender infused oil is more than just a means to an end. For me, it’s an act of self-care that starts long before I use the oil on my skin. It’s the scent that fills the kitchen as I open the jar each day to stir it. It’s the peaceful quiet of gathering supplies, and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with my own hands.
Whether you’re new to essential oils or a seasoned herbalist, learning how to make your own lavender infused oil is a fulfilling and grounding experience. It’s a reminder that healing can come from nature, and that sometimes, the simplest remedies are the most powerful.
So, if you’ve been feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or just curious about natural wellness, I encourage you to gather your lavender, pick your oil, and get started. You might just discover a new favorite ritual—and a deeper connection to yourself in the process.
