The scent of lavender has been used for centuries because of its calming effect. The scent is a mixture of sweet and woody. Not only is the scent popular, but the oil of the lavender plant has many therapeutic values. It can be used as perfume and a bath oil, or it can used to heal burns, heal wounds, relieve pain, sooth sunburned skin and reduce inflammation. This miracle oil is not hard to make from the fresh lavender that grows in the fields or lavender flowers purchased at a craft store or nursery. All you need are a few ingredients and some patience as you wait for the flowers and oil to steep.
Instructions
1. Prepare the lavender. If you grew your own lavender, cut the flowers just before they are fully open. Pull off the flowers from the stems. Lay them out on a paper towel for a few hours to dry. Chop the flowers slightly. It doesn't have to be chopped finely. You will need 8 tbsp. of lavender for each infusion. It will take two to three times to infuse the flowers with the oil. If you bought the lavender, you probably purchased just the flowers and they will be dry and ready to chop.
2. Pour in the oil. Measure out 14 ounces of oil and pour into the wide mouth jar. Next add the 8 tbsp. of lavender and stir. Place a tight lid on the jar or place plastic over the top with an elastic band. Set in a sunny window for 48 hours. Shake every 12 hours.
3. Filter out the oil. After the 48 hours, remove the lid or plastic and place a piece of muslin over the jar. Strain the oil through the muslin into a glass bowl. When most of the oil is strained through, squeeze the muslin to release the rest of the oil.
4. Start over. Put the oil back into the wide mouthed jar and add another 8 tbsp. of lavender. Repeat the process for 48 hours and filter the oil through the muslin. Repeat the process again (if needed) until you get the scent you want which will probably take two to three times.
5. Pour the oil into a dark glass bottle. After the last straining, place the oil in a dark glass bottle with a good lid or cork. Keep the oil in a cool, dark place. It should stay fresh for six to twelve months.
Tags: tbsp lavender, dark glass, dark glass bottle, glass bottle, , lavender flowers