How to Make Mint Oil from Mint Leaves Easily

By Michael Chen · January 24, 2026

To make mint oil from mint leaves, steep fresh or dried mint in a carrier oil like olive or almond oil for 1–2 weeks in a cool, dark place, then strain and store in a dark glass bottle. This simple infusion method preserves the essential compounds of mint, yielding a fragrant, therapeutic oil perfect for topical use, aromatherapy, or natural remedies.

Why Make Your Own Mint Oil?

Creating homemade mint oil allows full control over quality, purity, and potency. Unlike commercial products that may contain additives or diluted extracts, DIY mint oil uses minimal ingredients and retains the plant's natural benefits. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) and spearmint (Mentha spicata) are most commonly used due to their high menthol content and aromatic profile.

Benefits of Natural Mint Oil

Natural pain relief for headaches and muscle soreness
Supports respiratory health when used aromatically
Acts as an insect repellent
Promotes healthy digestion when applied topically (e.g., abdominal massage)
Antimicrobial and antifungal properties

Choosing the Right Mint Leaves

The quality of your mint oil starts with the freshness and variety of the leaves. Harvest mint in the morning after dew evaporates but before the sun peaks, when essential oil concentration is highest.

Fresh vs. Dried Mint: Which Is Better?

Fresh mint leaves generally yield more vibrant oil due to higher volatile oil content. However, dried mint can be effective if properly stored and not degraded by light or heat.

Mint Type	Menthol Content (%)	Recommended Use	Yield Efficiency (Infusion)
Peppermint (fresh)	30–50	Pain relief, cooling effect	High
Spearmint (fresh)	0.5–1.0	Gentle aroma, culinary use	Medium
Peppermint (dried)	25–40	Storage-friendly option	Medium-High
Applemint (fresh)	10–15	Aromatic, mild flavor	Low-Medium

Table data source:1, 2

Data shows peppermint has the highest menthol concentration, making it ideal for therapeutic oils. Fresh peppermint offers optimal yield and potency compared to other varieties. Spearmint, while lower in menthol, provides a milder alternative suitable for sensitive skin or children.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mint Oil at Home

This cold infusion method maximizes safety and retention of delicate aromatic compounds without heat degradation.

What You'll Need

1 cup fresh mint leaves (washed and thoroughly dried)
1.5 cups carrier oil (olive, almond, or jojoba oil recommended)
Glass jar with tight-sealing lid (8 oz or larger)
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Dark glass dropper bottles for storage
Labels and pen

Instructions

Prepare the mint: Crush leaves lightly with a mortar and pestle or fingers to release essential oils.
Add to jar: Place crushed leaves in the glass jar and pour carrier oil over them until fully submerged (at least 1 inch above).
Infuse: Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 5–14 days. Shake gently daily.
Strain: After infusion, strain through cheesecloth into clean container. Squeeze out excess oil.
Store: Transfer to dark glass bottles, label with date and type, and keep away from heat and sunlight.

Best Carrier Oils for Mint Infusion

The carrier oil affects shelf life, absorption, and skin feel. Choose based on intended use:

Olive oil: Stable, affordable, great for massage; may feel greasy.
Sweet almond oil: Lightweight, absorbs well, ideal for facial or body oils.
Jojoba oil: Technically a wax ester, mimics skin sebum; excellent for long-term storage.
Coconut oil (fractionated): Odorless, non-greasy, antimicrobial properties.

Tips for Maximum Potency and Shelf Life

To ensure your mint oil remains effective and safe:

Always use dry leaves to prevent mold during infusion.
Label bottles with the date and mint variety.
Store in amber or cobalt glass to block UV light.
Keep in a cool cupboard or refrigerator; lasts up to 6 months refrigerated.
Check for rancidity (off smell or cloudiness) before each use.

Common Questions About Making Mint Oil

Can I use dried mint leaves to make mint oil?

Yes, dried mint leaves can be used, though they typically yield less potent oil than fresh leaves due to reduced volatile oil content. Ensure the dried mint is free from additives and was stored in airtight, dark conditions to preserve quality.

How long does homemade mint oil last?

When stored in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place, mint oil lasts 3–4 months. Refrigeration extends shelf life to 6 months. Discard if you notice cloudiness, separation, or sour odor.

Is it safe to use homemade mint oil on skin?

Yes, but always perform a patch test first. Dilute further if irritation occurs. Avoid using undiluted (neat) mint oil directly on skin, especially for sensitive individuals or children under 6.

Can I speed up the infusion process with heat?

You can use a slow cooker or double boiler on low heat for 2–4 hours, but this risks degrading delicate terpenes and increasing oxidation. Cold infusion preserves more aromatic and therapeutic compounds over time.

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

Mint essential oil is highly concentrated, extracted via steam distillation, and requires dilution before use. Infused mint oil is milder, made by soaking plant material in carrier oil, and safer for beginners or home use without specialized equipment.