How to Make Lavender Oil from Fresh Lavender

By Emma Johnson · January 23, 2026

To make lavender oil from fresh lavender, steep dried or fresh lavender flowers in a carrier oil like olive or jojoba oil for 1–4 weeks in a cool, dark place. Cold infusion preserves delicate aromas, while gentle heating speeds extraction. Strain and store in amber glass for best results.

Why Make Your Own Lavender Oil?

Creating your own lavender oil allows full control over quality, purity, and scent profile. Commercial oils may contain additives or use low-grade botanicals. Homemade versions ensure natural, therapeutic-grade oil perfect for skincare, aromatherapy, or relaxation.

Benefits of DIY Lavender Oil

Avoid synthetic fragrances and preservatives
Cost-effective compared to high-end essential oils
Tailor strength and carrier oil type to your needs
Promotes sustainable use of homegrown lavender

Choosing the Right Lavender and Timing

Not all lavender is equal when extracting aromatic oil. Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) offers the highest linalool content, ideal for calming effects.

Best Time to Harvest

Harvest in mid-morning after dew evaporates but before peak sun
Optimal bloom stage: just as flowers begin to open
Higher essential oil concentration on warm, dry days

Materials Needed for Lavender Oil Extraction

Gather clean, food-safe supplies before starting:

Fresh lavender flowers (about 1 cup packed)
Carrier oil (olive, sweet almond, or jojoba oil)
Glass jar with tight-sealing lid (8–16 oz)
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Amber glass dropper bottles for storage
Labels and pen

Carrier Oil	Scent Profile	Shelf Life	Best For
Olive Oil	Earthy, mild	18–24 months	Massage, hair care
Sweet Almond Oil	Slightly nutty	12 months	Skin hydration
Jojoba Oil	Neutral	2+ years	Facial serums
Grapeseed Oil	Light, clean	6 months	Quick absorption

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows that jojoba oil provides the longest shelf life and neutral odor, making it ideal for facial applications. Olive oil, while longer-lasting, has a stronger scent that may alter the pure lavender aroma.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lavender Oil

Cold Infusion Method (Recommended)

This method preserves volatile compounds without heat degradation.

Dry lavender flowers for 2–3 days in a dark, ventilated area
Coarsely chop flowers to release oils
Fill a clean glass jar one-third full with lavender
Pour carrier oil over flowers until fully submerged (leave 1-inch headspace)
Seal tightly and label with date and oil type
Store in a cool, dark place for 1–4 weeks, shaking gently every few days
Strain through cheesecloth into dark glass bottles
Discard plant material; store oil away from light and heat

Warm Infusion Method (Faster Option)

Use gentle heat to accelerate oil infusion.

Place sealed jar in a slow cooker with 2 inches of water (double boiler setup)
Heat on low for 2–3 hours, ensuring temperature stays below 100°F (38°C)
Cool completely before straining
Follow same storage steps as cold method

Storage and Shelf Life Tips

Proper storage prevents rancidity and preserves potency.

Always use amber or cobalt glass bottles
Keep in a cool, dark cabinet away from appliances
Label with batch date and ingredients
Add 1–2 drops of vitamin E oil (tocopherol) per ounce to extend freshness
Shelf life: 6–12 months depending on carrier oil

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Lavender Oil

Can I use fresh lavender without drying it first?

Yes, but moisture in fresh lavender can promote mold. Lightly wilt flowers for 12–24 hours before use to reduce water content while preserving essential oils.

How long does homemade lavender oil last?

Most infused oils last 6–12 months. Jojoba-based oils can last over 2 years due to natural stability. Always check for off smells or cloudiness before use.

Is lavender oil safe for skin?

When diluted in a carrier oil, topical use is generally safe. Perform a patch test first. Avoid undiluted essential oils directly on skin unless under professional guidance.

What’s the difference between lavender essential oil and infused oil?

Essential oil is concentrated via steam distillation and requires specialized equipment. Infused oil uses a carrier oil to extract compounds slowly, resulting in a milder, safer product for everyday use.

Can I reuse the leftover lavender after straining?

Used lavender has minimal oil left but can be dried and added to sachets or bath blends. Do not reuse for a second oil batch as extraction efficiency drops significantly.