How to Harvest Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus leaves grow on trees native to Australia, and from these leaves comes a fragrant oil that has many health and cleaning uses. For example, eucalyptus oil makes an ideal kitchen or bathroom disinfectant, and it also works as an insect repellent. Buying eucalyptus oil from a store can be expensive. If you have access to a eucalyptus tree, harvest the essential oil from its leaves with either a hot or cold extraction method. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Small and large non-reactive pots or double boiler
- Glass jars with lids
- Extra-virgin olive, almond or grapeseed oil
- Sieve or strainer
Instructions
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Hot Eucalyptus Oil Extraction
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1
Pick the eucalyptus leaves and let them dry overnight. For a strong-smelling essential oil, pick 2 or 3 ounces of leaves. For a weaker oil, use about half that amount.
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2
Put the eucalyptus leaves in a non-reactive pot, such as cast iron, glass or stainless steel. Never use a copper or aluminum pot as these are reactive and can chemically change the eucalyptus oil's composition, making it weaker, less fragrant and less pure.
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3
Cover the eucalyptus leaves with a carrier oil. Carrier oils dilute the eucalyptus oil, making it safe to use on skin. Extra-virgin olive, almond or grapeseed oil works well. After covering the leaves, add 2 extra inches of oil into the pot.
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4
Set the pot in a double boiler or put it in a larger pot. Place the pot or double boiler on the stove and turn the burner to the lowest setting.
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5
Let the oil heat for three hours then shut off the burner and wait for the oil to cool. Strain the eucalyptus oil into a glass jar.
Cold Eucalyptus Oil Extraction
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Harvest as many eucalyptus leaves as you want to use for oil extraction. Let the leaves dry overnight.
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Put the eucalyptus leaves in a glass jar. Leave 3 inches between the leaves and the top of the jar.
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Cover the eucalyptus leaves completely with your desired carrier oil. Put the lid on the jar and set it in a warm, sunny spot for six to eight weeks.
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Strain the eucalyptus oil into another jar. Seal the jar and store it in a dark closet or pantry.
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Tips & Warnings
Homemade eucalyptus oil is not as strong-smelling or pure as commercially-distilled oil.
References
Resources
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