Making your own oils at home can be an exciting and rewarding way to integrate beneficial ingredients into your skincare routine. It's not only enjoyable but also really satisfying. The best part about making your own oils is that you have complete control over the ingredients and can know exactly when it was made. Below, you'll find a list of awesome oils that you can whip up at home, along with a step-by-step guide on how to create them. Let's head over to the kitchen and get creative.
1. Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is made from the seeds and flesh of the wild rose bush (Rosa canina), which is native to Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia.
What you will need
Slow cooker i purchased my small one from amazon, or double boiler
Pestle & mortar, or something to smash the fruits.
Base oil of your choice, I personally use extra virgin olive oil.
Roships
How to Make It:
Harvest the Rosehips : Grab a bag and the dog if you have one, and Head out to the local park,or nature reserve to Collect rosehip fruits, the best time for this is around autumn in the UK, don't forget to leave some for the wildlife,
Once home give them a really good wash remove any bits of leaves or debris, and disregard any that are not looking to good
Crush the berries to allow the seeds to escape, with pestle and mortar, or whatever you have available
Place the berries and oil of your choice (enough to cover the berries) in a slow cooker if you have one, alternatively double boiler, on the lowest setting, let them simmer gengle for about 8 hours, if you are using a double boiler you will need to keep and eye on the water to ensure it doesn't go dry
After the infusion period, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine sieve to remove seed particles. Store the finished rosehip oil in a dark glass bottle.
Rosehip oil can be stored for up to 6 months in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life to 8-12 months.
Vitamins Minerals and antioxidants found in Rosehip
Vitamin C | Rosehips are incredibly rich in vitamin C, containing more of this vital nutrient than oranges. Vitamin C is essential for skin health, as it promotes collagen production, helps with wound healing, and has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage. |
Vitamin A | Also known as retinol, vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. In rosehip, vitamin A comes in the form of beta-carotene, which the body converts into retinol. |
Vitamin E | Vitamin E is another potent antioxidant found in rosehip. It helps to protect skin cells from oxidative stress, maintains skin hydration, and supports the skin’s barrier function. |
Vitamin B Complex | Rosehips contain several B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3). These vitamins are crucial for energy production, cell metabolism, and maintaining healthy skin and nervous system function. |
Calcium | Essential for bone health, calcium is found in rosehips and supports strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and nerve signaling. |
Magnesium | Magnesium in rose hips helps to regulate various biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and blood glucose control. |
Potassium | Potassium is a vital mineral for heart and muscle function. It helps to maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, and proper cell function. |
Iron | Rosehips contain iron, which is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. |
Zinc | Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. It also supports the production of proteins and enzymes in the body. |
Flavonoids | Rosehips are rich in flavonoids, a group of phytonutrients with powerful antioxidant properties. Flavonoids help to reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, and support overall health. |
Lycopene | This is a powerful antioxidant found in rosehips that helps protect the skin from sun damage and may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. |
Pectin | Rosehips are a good source of pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. |
Rosehip oil is a highly prized skincare ingredient, known for its numerous benefits to the skin.
Key Benefits of Rosehip Oil
1. Rich in Essential Fatty Acids
Moisturization: Rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. These fatty acids help to lock in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing dryness.
2. High in Antioxidants
Anti-Aging: The oil is packed with antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which help to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from premature aging. These antioxidants can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
3. Promotes Collagen Production
Skin Firmness: Rosehip oil contains vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin C, both of which are known to promote collagen production. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, making the skin look youthful and plump.
4. Helps Reduce Hyperpigmentation
Even Skin Tone: The high vitamin C content in rosehip oil helps to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and scars, leading to a more even skin tone.
5. Improves Skin Texture
Smooth Skin: Rosehip oil’s combination of vitamins A, C, and essential fatty acids work together to improve the overall texture of the skin, making it smoother and softer.
6. Soothes Inflammation
Calming Effect: The anti-inflammatory properties of rosehip oil make it effective in soothing irritated or inflamed skin. It can help calm conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne.
7. Aids in Scar and Stretch Mark Reduction
Healing: Rosehip oil is often used to help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Its ability to promote skin regeneration and improve elasticity makes it effective in healing and minimizing these skin concerns.
8. Non-Comedogenic
Suitable for All Skin Types: Rosehip oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
9. Natural Exfoliation
Skin Renewal: The vitamin A in rosehip oil encourages cell turnover, acting as a natural exfoliant. This helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing fresh, glowing skin underneath.
10. Enhances Skin Healing
Repair: Rosehip oil supports the skin’s natural healing process, making it beneficial for repairing damaged skin, including sun damage and minor wounds.
These benefits make rosehip oil a versatile and highly effective ingredient for promoting healthy, radiant skin.These vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants make rosehip a highly beneficial ingredient for skincare, helping to promote a healthy, radiant complexion while also supporting overall health and wellness.
Interesting Fact
Rosehip oil has gained a cult following among celebrities and skincare enthusiasts for its ability to improve skin texture and tone. It’s a favorite among those seeking natural alternatives to more invasive beauty treatments.
2. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is derived from the flowers of the lavender plant (Lavandula angustifolia), which is native to the Mediterranean region.
What you will need
Fresh lavender
Carrier oil of your choice
Dehydrator, not necessary but will speed up the process
How to Make It:
Pick fresh lavender flowers abundant in the summer time, and allow them to dry completely in a well-ventilated area.if you have a Dehydrator that's even better, it will save you a lot of time , wait for them to completely dry.
Lightly crush the dried lavender flowers to help release their essential oils.
Place the crushed flowers in a glass jar and cover them with a carrier oil like almond or grapeseed oil. Seal the jar and leave it in a warm, sunny spot for 3-4 weeks,
shaking it daily.
Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, then transfer it to a dark glass bottle. And that's it how simple is that?
Lavender oil can be stored for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. If stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to 2 years.
Antioxidants and Other Beneficial Compounds in Lavender Oil
Vitamin A | Lavender oil contains small amounts of vitamin A, which is important for skin health, promoting cell turnover, and helping to maintain a smooth and even complexion. |
Linalool: | Linalool is a natural terpene alcohol found in lavender oil that has strong antioxidant properties. It helps to reduce oxidative stress on the skin and has calming and anti-anxiety effects. |
Linalyl Acetate | This compound contributes to lavender oil’s characteristic scent and also provides anti-inflammatory and relaxing effects. It works in synergy with linalool to enhance the oil’s therapeutic benefits. |
Cineole (Eucalyptol) | Cineole has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps improve respiratory conditions when inhaled and can soothe irritated skin when applied topically |
Camphor | Camphor in lavender oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps to improve circulation and can alleviate pain when applied to the skin. |
Tannins | Tannins are polyphenolic compounds with astringent properties, helping to tighten and tone the skin. They also contribute to the antioxidant effects of lavender oil. |
Key Benefits of Lavender Oil:
Antioxidant Protection: Lavender oil's antioxidants help protect skin cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in lavender oil make it effective in reducing redness, swelling, and irritation.
Antimicrobial: Lavender oil has natural antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating acne and other skin infections.
Calming and Relaxing: The oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote better sleep which we all love.
While lavender oil may not be a rich source of vitamins or minerals, its array of antioxidants and active compounds make it a valuable addition to skincare routines, especially for calming and healing purposes.
Interesting Fact
lavender oil is that it was used as an antiseptic during World War I. Nurses applied lavender oil to clean wounds and sterilize medical equipment due to its powerful antibacterial and healing properties. This practice highlighted lavender's long-standing reputation as a natural remedy for promoting healing and preventing infections.
3. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil comes from the leaves of the peppermint plant (Mentha × piperita), which is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint, native to Europe and the Middle East.
What you will need
Fresh lavender
Carrier oil of your choice
Dehydrator, not necessary but will speed up the process
How to Make It:
Collect fresh peppermint leaves, ideally in the morning they are at their best.
Spread the leaves out on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, and let them dry for 1-2 weeks. or in a dehydrator for 24 hours.
Place the dried leaves in a glass jar and cover with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. Seal and store in a warm, dark place for 1-2 weeks, shaking daily.
Strain the oil into a dark glass bottle using a cheesecloth. it smells divine.
Peppermint oil can last up to 1 year if stored properly.
Store in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness.
Interesting Fact:
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect on the skin and is known for its invigorating and energizing properties, making it great for waking up tired skin.
Essential oils like peppermint do not contain substantial amounts of minerals because they are distilled and concentrated forms of the plant’s aromatic compounds, not its nutritional components.
Antioxidants and Other Beneficial Compounds in Peppermint
Menthol | Menthol is the primary active compound in peppermint oil, known for its cooling sensation when applied to the skin. It helps to soothe irritation and inflammation. |
Menthone | Menthone contributes to the characteristic minty scent of peppermint oil and enhances its therapeutic effects, including its ability to relieve headaches and tension. |
Cineole (Eucalyptol) |
|
Menthofuran | Menthofuran is another active compound with strong antioxidant properties, contributing to the oil's ability to fight free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. |
Limonene | Limonene is a terpene with natural cleansing properties. It helps to detoxify the skin and can also have mood-lifting effects when inhaled. |
Tannins | While present in smaller amounts, tannins in peppermint oil help to tighten and tone the skin. They also have mild anti-inflammatory effects. |
Vitamin A | Present in trace amounts, contributing to skin health and regeneration. |
Vitamin C | Also in very small amounts, contributing to the oil's antioxidant properties. |
Key Benefits of Peppermint Oil:
Skin Soothing: The cooling menthol content soothes irritated skin, making it useful for conditions like itching, redness, and minor burns.
Headache Relief: Peppermint oil is commonly used to relieve headaches when applied to the temples or inhaled.
Digestive Aid: When diluted and applied to the abdomen, peppermint oil can help relieve digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
Respiratory Support: Inhalation of peppermint oil can help clear nasal congestion and improve breathing
Antimicrobial Properties: Peppermint oil has natural antimicrobial effects, making it effective for treating acne and cleansing the skin.
While peppermint oil is more about its active compounds than vitamins or minerals, its therapeutic properties make it a versatile oil for both skincare and overall well-being. And one i am sure you will love it as much as i do.
Interesting Fact
peppermint oil is that it has been scientifically shown to enhance athletic performance and cognitive function. Inhaling the scent of peppermint oil can increase alertness, improve focus, and even boost physical endurance, making it a popular choice among athletes and students looking for a natural performance enhancer.
4. Calendula Oil
Calendula oil is made from the flowers of the calendula plant (Calendula officinalis), which is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean.
What you will need
Fresh Calendula
Carrier oil of your choice
Dehydrator, not necessary but will speed up the process
How to Make It:
Pick fresh calendula flowers, ideally in the morning after the dew has dried.
Lay the flowers out in a single layer in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks. or in a dehydrator for 24 hours
Place the dried flowers in a glass jar and cover with a carrier oil like olive or grapeseed oil. I like to use Castor Oil ,Seal the jar and store it in a warm, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain the oil into a dark glass bottle using a cheesecloth.
Shelf Life Keep the oil in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed bottle to prolong its shelf life. Calendula oil can last up to 1 year if stored properly.
Antioxidants and Other Beneficial Compounds in Calendula
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) | Skin Health: Calendula is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for skin health. Vitamin A helps in promoting skin cell regeneration, healing wounds, and reducing the appearance of scars. |
Vitamin C | Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C in calendula helps protect the skin from oxidative stress, promotes collagen production, and supports the immune system. It also helps brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. |
Vitamin E | Moisturization and Healing: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant found in calendula, known for its moisturizing properties and its ability to heal and protect the skin from environmental damage. |
Zinc | Wound Healing: Zinc is a mineral found in calendula that plays a crucial role in wound healing and maintaining the integrity of the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help in calming irritated skin. |
Magnesium | Skin Repair: Magnesium helps in repairing the skin, reducing stress, and improving cellular function. It also helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and moisture balance. |
Iron | Oxygen Transport: Iron in calendula supports the oxygenation of cells, which is vital for skin health and healing processes. |
Flavonoids | Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants found in calendula that protect the skin from free radical damage and reduce inflammation. They also contribute to the overall healing properties of calendula. |
Triterpenoids | Healing and Anti-inflammatory: Triterpenoids in calendula have strong anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. They help reduce swelling and promote tissue repair. |
Carotenoids | Skin Protection: These are pigments in calendula that have antioxidant properties and protect the skin from UV damage, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion. |
Saponins | Cleansing and Healing: Saponins in calendula have gentle cleansing properties and help in healing minor wounds and skin irritations. |
Key Benefits of Calendula:
Skin Healing: Calendula is known for its wound-healing properties, making it effective for treating cuts, burns, and other minor skin injuries.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in calendula help soothe irritated and inflamed skin, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants in calendula protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage, helping to prevent premature aging.
Moisturization: Calendula’s emollient properties make it excellent for moisturizing dry and sensitive skin, keeping it soft and supple.
Antimicrobial: Calendula has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infection in minor wounds and skin irritations.
These nutrients and compounds make calendula a powerful ingredient in natural skincare and healing products.
Interesting Fact
An interesting fact about calendula oil is that it was historically used by Civil War doctors to treat wounds on the battlefield. The oil, derived from the marigold flower, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which made it a valuable natural remedy for promoting healing and preventing infections in injured soldiers.
5. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is derived from the flowers of the chamomile plant (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile), native to Europe and Western Asia.
What you will need
Fresh Chamomile
Carrier oil of your choice
Dehydrator, not necessary but will speed up the process.
How to Make It:
Pick fresh chamomile flowers in the morning.
Lay the flowers out in a single layer in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks. alternatively in a dehydrator for 24 hours.
Place the dried flowers in a glass jar and cover with a carrier oil like Olive Oil or the carrier oil of your choice. Seal the jar and store it in a warm, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain the oil through a cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle.
Chamomile oil can last up to 1 year when stored properly.
Keep in a cool, dark place to preserve its soothing properties.
Antioxidants and Other Beneficial Compounds in Chamomile Oil
Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) | Skin Health: Chamomile oil contains small amounts of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for skin health, helping to promote cell turnover, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin |
Vitamin E | Antioxidant Protection: Chamomile oil includes vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. It also has moisturizing properties, making it beneficial for dry and sensitive skin |
Calcium | Bone Health and Nerve Function: In trace amounts, calcium contributes to the overall health of bones and nerves, though its presence in chamomile oil is minimal. |
Magnesium | Stress Relief: Magnesium in chamomile helps with stress relief and relaxation, which is one reason why chamomile tea is popular for calming effects. |
Chamazulene | Anti-inflammatory: Chamazulene is a key component of chamomile oil, particularly in the German chamomile variety. It gives the oil its characteristic blue color and provides strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it effective for soothing irritated skin |
Bisabolol | ealing and Soothing: Alpha-bisabolol is another significant compound in chamomile oil known for its skin-healing properties. It helps to soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing of wounds and minor burns. |
Flavonoids | Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile oil is rich in flavonoids, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds help protect the skin from environmental stressors and reduce redness and swelling |
Apigenin | Calming: Apigenin is a flavonoid found in chamomile that has a calming effect on the skin and the body. It helps reduce anxiety and can also soothe the skin. |
Tannins | Astringent: Tannins in chamomile oil have astringent properties, which help to tighten and tone the skin, reduce puffiness, and shrink pores |
Key Benefits of Chamomile Oil:
Soothing and Calming: Chamomile oil is widely known for its calming effects, making it excellent for soothing irritated skin, reducing redness, and calming inflamed areas.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory compounds in chamomile oil, such as chamazulene and bisabolol, help to reduce swelling, redness, and irritation, making it useful for conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
Antioxidant Protection: Chamomile oil’s antioxidants, like flavonoids and vitamin E, protect the skin from oxidative stress and help prevent premature aging.
Wound Healing: Chamomile oil has natural wound-healing properties, making it effective in treating minor cuts, burns, and abrasions.
Antimicrobial: Chamomile oil has mild antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections in minor wounds and soothe acne-prone skin.
While chamomile oil may not be packed with a wide range of vitamins and minerals, its key compounds provide powerful therapeutic benefits, particularly for skin health and overall well-being.
Interesting Fact:
The Egyptians used chamomile oil as part of the embalming mixture to preserve bodies, believing it would protect the soul in the afterlife.
I really hope you enjoyed this introduction to Making your own Essential Oils.
I will be covering lots more in other posts.
If there are any oils you would like to be included in future post please get in touch, i would love to hear from you , alternatively just leave a comment.
Take care x
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