How to Extract Oils From Lemon Grass

Use lemon grass oil for a variety of household purposes.

Lemon grass, often referred to as citronella, is considered a backyard plant that can have its oil extracted for various uses. Lemon grass oils have been used as antibacterials and even in pain relief. The most common method of extraction is the use of oil infusion. These are done in a hold or cold method that can be difficult, but with the right tools and a little expertise, you can extract the essential oils and use them in a variety of applications.

Things You'll Need

• 500 grams fresh lemon grass
• 750 ml olive oil
• Glass bowl
• Saucepan
• Dark mason jar
• Jelly bag
• Clear mason jar

Instructions

Hot Oil Infusion Method

1. Chop your lemon grass. Add it to a glass bowl that is sitting on top of a small saucepan with boiling water. Add oil to the lemon grass and stir.

2. Cover the bowl and allow to simmer for two to three hours. Remove from heat and cool.

3. Put a jelly bag over a clean bowl and pour your mixture into the bag. Squeeze out as much liquid as you can from the oil and lemon grass. Discard anything left inside the jelly bag.

4. Add your oil to a clean, dark mason jar. Seal and label the jar. If the jar has been sanitized and sealed properly, you can store your lemon grass oils for up to one year.

Cold Oil Infusion Method

1. Clean a clear mason jar. Fill the jar with chopped lemon grass and fill completely with olive oil. Seal the jar and shake well.

2. Place the jar in a sunny spot. Allow it to set for two to six weeks.

3. Strain your oil mixture into a clean bowl, using a jelly bag. Move the lemon grass oil to a dark mason jar and seal it.

Tips & Warnings

• The longer your oil infuses in the cold method, the more potent the material will be.

References

• OISAT: Lemongrass