How to Make Mint Oil at Home Easily

By Emma Johnson · January 24, 2026

How to Make Mint Oil at Home: A Complete Guide

Making mint oil at home is simple and cost-effective. By steeping fresh mint leaves in a carrier oil like olive or jojoba oil for 1–4 weeks, you can create a potent, aromatic oil ideal for aromatherapy, skincare, and natural remedies.

Why Make Your Own Mint Oil?

Homemade mint oil offers several advantages over store-bought versions:

Purity: Avoid synthetic additives and preservatives.
Cost-effective: Save money with inexpensive ingredients.
Customization: Control the strength and type of mint used (e.g., peppermint, spearmint).
Sustainability: Reduce plastic waste by reusing glass containers.

Choosing the Right Mint Variety

Different mints offer unique scents and benefits:

Common Mint Types for Oil Extraction

Mentha x piperita (Peppermint) – High menthol content, cooling effect.
Mentha spicata (Spearmint) – Milder aroma, ideal for sensitive skin.
Mentha citrata (Orange Mint) – Citrusy notes, great for perfumes.

Essential Supplies and Materials

To make high-quality mint oil, gather these supplies:

Fresh mint leaves (organic preferred)
Cold-pressed carrier oil (olive, almond, or jojoba)
Glass jar with tight lid (amber or cobalt blue preferred)
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Dark glass dropper bottles for storage
Label and marker

Step-by-Step Method: Cold Infusion Process

The cold infusion method preserves delicate compounds without heat degradation.

Wash and thoroughly dry mint leaves to prevent mold.
Chop leaves slightly to release essential oils.
Fill a clean glass jar 2/3 full with mint.
Pour carrier oil over leaves until fully submerged (leave 1-inch headspace).
Seal jar and place in a warm, dark location (e.g., cupboard).
Shake gently every 2–3 days.
Steep for 1–4 weeks, depending on desired strength.
Strain through cheesecloth into dark bottles.
Label with date and mint type.

Solar vs. Heat vs. Cold Infusion: Which Is Best?

Each method affects potency and shelf life differently.

Method	Time Required	Oil Quality	Shelf Life	Risk of Spoilage
Cold Infusion	1–4 weeks	High	6–12 months	Low (if dried properly)
Solar Infusion	5–7 days	Moderate	6 months	Moderate (heat exposure)
Heat Accelerated	3–6 hours	Lower	3–6 months	Higher (oxidation risk)

Table data source:1, 2

The cold infusion method yields the highest quality mint oil with minimal degradation of volatile compounds. Solar and heat methods speed up extraction but may reduce therapeutic value due to temperature sensitivity of mint's active constituents.

Storage Tips for Longevity

To maximize shelf life:

Store in dark glass bottles away from light and heat.
Keep in a cool cupboard or refrigerator.
Always use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
Check for rancidity (off smell or cloudy appearance) before use.

Safety and Usage Guidelines

Mint oil is generally safe when diluted, but consider these precautions:

Perform a patch test before topical application.
Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Do not use undiluted on skin (dilute to 1–5%).
Not recommended for infants or individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Mint Oil

Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?

Yes, dried mint works well and often produces a more concentrated oil because the drying process breaks down cell walls. Use roughly the same volume as fresh, but ensure it’s completely moisture-free to prevent mold.

What carrier oil is best for mint oil?

Olive oil is popular due to its stability and availability, but jojoba and sweet almond oils are excellent alternatives. Jojoba closely mimics skin sebum and has a longer shelf life, while almond oil absorbs quickly and is gentle on skin.

How long does homemade mint oil last?

Properly stored, mint oil lasts 6–12 months. Cold-infused oils in dark bottles kept refrigerated can last up to a year. Discard if the oil smells rancid or looks cloudy.

Can I use mint stems in the oil?

Yes, tender stems contain aromatic compounds. However, avoid thick woody stems as they add little flavor and may introduce excess moisture. Chop finely to increase surface area.

Is homemade mint oil safe for ingestion?

Only if made with food-grade ingredients and intended for culinary use. Most topical mint oils use non-edible carriers like jojoba. For internal use, consult a qualified herbalist and use only FDA-approved carrier oils like olive oil in sterile conditions.