Lemon oil is an essential oil derived from lemon peels through a process called cold-pressed or heat-infusion. It is versatile and aromatic, and it has a wide range of benefits, from skincare, cleaning, and aromatherapy, to cooking and baking. In this article, you will Learn How to Make Lemon Oil at Home.
What is Lemon Oil?
Lemon Essential Oil vs. Lemon Oil
Lemon essential oil is a type of essential oil, which is a highly concentrated oil obtained through the process of steam distillation of lemon peel. Lemon oil, on the other hand, is derived from the cold-pressed or heat-infusion process of lemon peels. While both oils have similar properties, the lemon essential oil is more potent, and you need to use less of it than lemon oil.
Benefits of Using Lemon Oil
Lemon oil has many benefits, and it is a popular oil in aromatherapy. It has a refreshing scent that can help uplift your mood and relieve stress and anxiety. In skincare, it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, brighten the skin, and fight acne. Lemon oil is also an excellent cleaning agent due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Additionally, it can be used in cooking and baking to add a zesty, lemony flavor to the dishes. You can check our detailed article about the 10 Best Health Benefits of Lemon Oil.
How to Use Lemon Oil
Lemon oil can be used in various ways, depending on your needs. In aromatherapy, you can add a few drops to your diffuser or vaporizer to fill your room with a refreshing scent. You can dilute lemon oil with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, and use it topically in your skincare routine. When using lemon oil in cooking, make sure to use a food-grade quality lemon oil and add it sparingly to your dishes to avoid overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Lemon Oil at Home Easily
Gather the Ingredients and Supplies
Before making your own lemon oil, you will need to gather the following ingredients and supplies:
- 6-8 lemons
- A peeler or zester
- A grater
- A jar with a tight-fitting lid
- A cheesecloth
- A dark place to store the jar
Preparing the Lemon Peel
Start by washing your lemons thoroughly and drying them with a towel. Next, using either a peeler or a zester, peel the skin off the lemons, making sure to avoid the white pith, as it can make your oil bitter. Alternatively, you can use a grater to remove the zest from the lemons.
Two Methods for Making Lemon Oil
There are two methods for making lemon oil: cold press and heat-infusion. Both methods are simple and require a few easy steps.
Method 1: Cold Press
Steps for Cold Press Method
- Add the lemon peels to the jar, making sure to fill it about two-thirds full.
- Cover the peels with the oil of your choice, such as sweet almond oil, or a light olive oil.
- Seal the jar and place it in a dark place to infuse for about two weeks.
- Once the lemon oil is infused, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
- Pour the lemon oil into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Storing Your Lemon Oil
Keep your lemon oil in a cool place away from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness and potency for up to six months.
Uses for Cold Press Lemon Oil
Cold press lemon oil can be used in aromatherapy, skincare, and cleaning. It has a refreshing lemon scent that can help uplift your mood and relieve stress. You can use it topically in your skincare routine or add a few drops to your cleaning solutions for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Method 2: Heat-infused
Steps for Heat-infused Method
- Add the lemon peels to a glass jar and cover them with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, or light olive oil.
- Place the jar in a saucepan filled with water and heat it over low heat for about two hours.
- Strain the oil using a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
- Pour the lemon oil into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Storing Your Lemon Oil
Keep your lemon oil in a cool place away from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness and potency for up to six months.
Uses for Heat-infused Lemon Oil
Like the cold press lemon oil, heat-infused lemon oil can also be used in aromatherapy, skincare, and cleaning. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it an excellent ingredient in your cleaning solutions, while its zesty, lemony scent can help uplift your mood and relieve stress. You can also add a few drops to your favorite carrier oil and use it topically in your skincare routine.
Precautions When Using Lemon Oil
Be Careful with Sun Exposure
Like other citrus oils, lemon oil can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid using it topically before going out into the sun, or use it at night instead.
Perform a Patch Test
Before using lemon oil topically, perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Dilute the oil with a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, and apply a small amount to your skin. Wait for 24 hours before using it more widely.
Keep Lemon Oil Away from Children and Pets
Keep your homemade lemon oil away from children and pets, as it can be toxic when ingested in large quantities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lemon oil is a versatile and aromatic essential oil that is easy to make at home. There are two methods to make this oil, cold press and heat-infused, and each method requires a few simple steps. Lemon oil has a wide variety of benefits and is an excellent addition to your aromatherapy routine. Just be sure to take precautions when handling and using this potent oil.
FAQs
How much oil does one lemon peel yield?
One lemon peel yields about one tablespoon of oil.
Can I make lemon oil with lemon juice?
No, you cannot make lemon oil with lemon juice. Lemon oil is derived from lemon peels, while lemon juice is the liquid inside the lemon.
Can I substitute other citrus peels?
Yes, you can substitute other citrus peels, such as orange or grapefruit peel, for making your own homemade citrus oils.