Laurel oil is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy, particularly for its sedative, digestive and diuretic properties. Additionally, it is also a normal component of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory topical skin creams and perfume and other cosmetics. Making it at home can be a simple task with the right technique. Read this OneHowTo article and find out how to make laurel oil.
- 30g of fresh laurel leaves
- 1 litre of extra virgin olive oil
- Vitamin E
The first thing to do is pick up some fresh bay leaves. It is important that they are not dried so that they keep all their properties and will make much better oil. Then, you also need extra virgin olive oil, or almond oil failing that. In terms of amounts, it is best to use a litre of oil for 30 grams of bay leaves.
Once all the ingredients are to hand, we can start preparing the homemade laurel oil. To do this, crush the leaves with your hands or a pestle and mortar if you have one. You must crush them until you start to see a light oil. That is why the leaves need to be fresh, not dried.
When they are well crushed, take the leaves and the oily substance they have released and put it into a sealable container and cover with olive oil. Then seal the container and leave to marinate for two weeks in a cool place free from humidity. Over time, you must change the bay leaves for new ones to enhance the aroma. Just pick more fresh leaves, wash them, mash them up and add to the jar with oil, cover and leave for two weeks.
After these two weeks, you can strain the oil. To do this you need a cotton cloth or gauze. Simply place the cloth or gauze on the container where you are going to keep it for use and pour the oil on it. Then, squeeze the cloth as much as you can to remove as much oil as possible.
And you're done! Now you have your home-made laurel oil ready for use. If you wish, you can add a few drops of vitamin E so that it lasts longer. You can use the oil topically to soften and nourish the skin. In case of ingestion, you should consult your doctor since an excess can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Ingesting it is not at all suitable for people with gastritis or ulcers. If you would like to make more homemade oils do not miss our articles how to make rosemary oil, lavender oil or eucalyptus oil.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
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