How to Make Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil is made from the concentrated oil found in the peppermint plant. Added to carrier oil, peppermint essential oil is used in aromatherapy to treat a variety of respiratory ailments, such as colds or bronchitis, or as massage oil, if diluted to the proper ratio. Commercially prepared essential oil is expensive. The good news is that you can make your own peppermint essential oil at home for a fraction of the cost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fresh peppermint Plastic storage bag Wooden mallet Carrier oil (grape seed, almond or wheat germ) Glass jar with lid Dark glass storage container Cheesecloth

1. Gather fresh peppermint from the garden or purchase a bundle of peppermint in the grocery store. You can often find fresh peppermint in the produce section or at farmer's markets.

2. Harvest peppermint in the morning after the dew has dried. Essential oils are at their peak in the morning before the heat of the day arrives. Select leaves that are free of imperfections or insect damage.

3. Wash peppermint with cool water, shake to remove excess water and set on paper towels to dry. Place the dried leaves in a plastic food storage bag and seal. Use a wooden mallet to tap the leaves gently to bruise the skin and release the natural oils.

4. Place the contents of the bag into a glass jar and cover with carrier oil. Carrier oil works to absorb the aroma from the peppermint. Grape seed oil, almond oil and wheat germ oil are good choices. You can purchase these oils in health food stores.

5. Seal the jar and shake to distribute the peppermint in the oil. Allow to set for 24 hours. Strain the peppermint leaves from the oil with a piece of cheesecloth reserving the oil. Discard the peppermint.

6. Repeat the process daily for three days (reusing the same oil) or until the oil reaches the desired strength. Pour the peppermint essential oil in to a dark bottle and seal. Store in a cool dark location away from direct light.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using peppermint oil during pregnancy. It is believed to induce labor or premature contractions. Do not use peppermint oil on or near babies. The oil is too strong for their delicate skin.

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[heatherschulte]

on 9/13/2009 Technically, these are infused oils, NOT essential oils.

[etmarciniec]

on 8/2/2009 I like your article. Thanks for the ideas. Other authors have recommended light olive oil or canola oil as carrier oils. I am curious what you think...