The active ingredient in most aromatic herbs is contained in the essential oils. The commercial extraction of the oils is achieved by steam distillation, which makes these oils more concentrated than the homemade ones. The dosage of the home-made oil must therefore be adjusted accordingly.

 

To make your own essential oils and ointments, mix around 125g of fresh or 60g of dried herbs with half a litre of olive, safflower or other pure vegetable oil. The mixture is heated and simmered uncovered for one hour. For oils, the mixture is then poured through a sieve and bottled. For ointments, add 30g of beeswax while the mixture is heating. The mixture is then left to cool and poured into containers for storage.

 

Essential oils are valued for their healing properties and aroma. A few drops of oil in hot water refreshes the face in the morning. A little oil in bath water provides relaxation. Essential oils can also be mixed with water in a spray bottle and used as a room spray. To make the laundry smell nice, put 6 drops of essential oil in the washing machine compartment before each wash cycle.