If you're a fan of essential oils, you may have come across mandarin oil. Mandarin oil is known for its soothing and calming properties, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy. Rather than spending a fortune on store-bought mandarin oil, why not try making your own at home? It's easier than you might think! In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of making mandarin oil from scratch.
What You'll Need
- 8-10 fresh mandarin oranges
- Vegetable peeler or zester
- Glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- Carrier oil (such as jojoba or sweet almond oil)
- Dark-colored glass bottles for storing the final product
Step 1: Prepare the Mandarin Oranges
Start by thoroughly washing the mandarin oranges to remove any dirt or residue. Dry them completely before proceeding. This step is important to ensure the oil is clean and free from contaminants.
Step 2: Peel the Oranges
Using a vegetable peeler or zester, carefully remove the outer colored part of the orange peel, avoiding the white pith. The peel contains the highest concentration of essential oils, which is what we're after. Make sure to collect all the peels in a clean bowl.
Step 3: Dry the Orange Peels
Spread the orange peels on a clean towel or paper towel and let them dry completely. This usually takes around 2-3 days. Ensure they are in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Step 4: Combine Orange Peels and Carrier Oil
Once the peels are dry, place them in a glass jar and cover them with the carrier oil of your choice. Make sure the peels are completely submerged in the oil. Close the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to ensure the peels are well coated with the oil.
Step 5: Infuse the Oil
Now comes the patient part. Leave the jar in a cool, dark place for about 2-3 weeks. This will allow the oil to extract all the aromatic compounds from the orange peels. Remember to shake the jar gently every few days to promote proper infusion.
Step 6: Strain and Store
After the infusion period, it's time to strain the oil. Use a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to filter out the orange peels, ensuring you have only pure oil left. Squeeze the peels gently to extract any remaining oil. Transfer the strained oil into dark-colored glass bottles for storage. These bottles help to protect the oil from light and maintain its potency.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! Your very own homemade mandarin oil ready to be used in aromatherapy or as a natural fragrance. By following these simple steps, you can create a high-quality essential oil at a fraction of the cost of store-bought alternatives. Enjoy the uplifting and calming scent of mandarin oil whenever you desire!
Remember to store your mandarin oil in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life. Now that you know the secret, why not experiment with other citrus fruits and create your own unique essential oils?
Disclaimer: Essential oils can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Always do a patch test before applying any oil directly to your skin and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or medical conditions.