If there’s one scent that instantly evokes calm, balance, and relaxation, it’s lavender. For centuries, this fragrant purple flower has been cherished for its ability to relieve stress, heal the skin, and promote deep, restorative sleep.
Why Lavender Infused Oil Is So Special
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is more than just a beautiful flower. It’s a natural remedy backed by centuries of traditional medicine and modern research.
When infused in oil, lavender’s therapeutic compounds – linalool, linalyl acetate, and camphor – are released slowly, creating a gentle but potent elixir with both physical and emotional benefits.
Top Benefits of Lavender Infused Oil
- Calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety
- Promotes relaxation and deeper sleep
- Soothes irritated or inflamed skin
- Speeds up wound healing and reduces scars
- Moisturizes dry skin and softens rough areas
- Relieves muscle tension and headaches
- Acts as a natural perfume or massage oil
- Repels insects gently, without harsh chemicals
It’s essentially peace in a bottle – perfect for winding down at the end of the day or adding to your daily self-care routine.
The Difference Between Lavender Infused Oil and Lavender Essential Oil
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand how lavender infused oil differs from lavender essential oil – because they’re often confused.
| Type | How It’s Made | Strength | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavender Infused Oil | Dried lavender flowers soaked in a carrier oil (like olive or jojoba) for days or weeks | Gentle, moisturizing, safe for direct skin use | Skincare, massages, bath oil, aromatherapy |
| Lavender Essential Oil | Steam-distilled from large amounts of flowers | Highly concentrated | Aromatherapy diffusers, natural cleaners, diluted skin applications |
Lavender infused oil is milder, more nourishing, and much easier to make at home – no special equipment needed.
What You’ll Need to Make Lavender Infused Oil
Making lavender infused oil is simple, but using high-quality ingredients makes all the difference.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lavender buds (organic if possible)
- 1 ½ cups carrier oil – choose one that matches your skin type:
-
- Jojoba oil – great for all skin types, non-greasy
- Sweet almond oil – light and fast-absorbing
- Olive oil – rich, moisturizing, long shelf life
- Grapeseed oil – ideal for oily or acne-prone skin
- Fractionated coconut oil – stable and soothing
Tip: Always use dried lavender, not fresh, to prevent mold growth during infusion.
Equipment
- Clean glass jar with a tight lid (16 oz or larger)
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Funnel (optional)
- Amber or dark glass storage bottle
- Label and date tag
Methods: How to Make Lavender Infused Oil
There are two main methods for making lavender oil: the slow (cold) infusion and the quick (warm) infusion. Both work beautifully – the main difference is time.
Method 1: The Cold Infusion (Traditional Way)
This method preserves the delicate scent and compounds of lavender naturally, with no heat.
Steps:
- Fill the jar halfway with dried lavender buds. – Lightly crush them between your fingers to release oils but don’t pulverize.
- Pour your carrier oil over the lavender. – Make sure all flowers are fully submerged – no air pockets.
- Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm, sunny windowsill (but not direct harsh sunlight) for 2 to 4 weeks.
- Shake the jar gently every few days to mix and encourage infusion.
- After the infusion period, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine strainer into a clean bowl.
- Pour into a dark glass bottle, label with the date, and store in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: 6–12 months (depending on the carrier oil used).
This slow method creates a mild, beautifully scented oil that’s perfect for sensitive skin and aromatherapy.
Method 2: The Warm Infusion (Quick Method)
If you don’t want to wait weeks, this faster method works within a few hours.
Steps:
- Add your dried lavender and carrier oil to a heat-safe glass jar or bowl.
- Place the jar in a double boiler or slow cooker on the lowest setting.
- Warm gently (not boiling!) for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the oil takes on a floral scent and light golden color, remove from heat.
- Cool, strain, and store as in the cold method.
Tip: Keep the temperature below 120°F (50°C) to preserve lavender’s natural compounds.
This warm infusion yields stronger aroma and faster results – perfect for quick DIY beauty projects.
How to Store Lavender Infused Oil
To keep your lavender oil fresh for months:
- Store it in a dark glass bottle to protect from sunlight.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place (like a cabinet or drawer).
- Always use clean, dry hands or a dropper to avoid contamination.
Pro tip: You can refrigerate your oil to extend shelf life, especially in warm climates.
How to Use Lavender Infused Oil: 12 Practical and Soothing Ideas
Once you’ve made your lavender oil, you’ll find yourself reaching for it every day. It’s one of the most versatile natural remedies you can make at home.
1. As a Relaxing Massage Oil
Warm a few drops between your palms and massage onto your neck, shoulders, or feet. The scent melts away tension and promotes relaxation – especially before bedtime.
2. As a Natural Moisturizer
Lavender infused oil hydrates without clogging pores. Apply a few drops on slightly damp skin after a shower to lock in moisture.
Tip: Works beautifully as an all-over body oil or for rough areas like elbows and heels.
3. To Soothe Irritated or Sunburned Skin
Lavender’s anti-inflammatory properties calm redness, itching, and sun irritation. Apply gently to affected areas for cooling relief.
4. For Calming the Mind Before Sleep
Rub a few drops onto your wrists, temples, or the soles of your feet. The scent signals your body it’s time to unwind and promotes deeper, more peaceful sleep.
Bonus: Add a few drops to your pillowcase or diffuser for extra relaxation.
5. As a Natural Perfume
Lavender infused oil carries a light, floral fragrance that feels both clean and soothing. Apply to pulse points as a gentle, natural perfume that lingers subtly all day.
6. To Reduce Headaches or Stress
Massage a small amount into your temples or back of the neck to ease muscle tension and calm the mind.
7. As a Cuticle or Hair Oil
It strengthens nails and adds shine to dry, frizzy hair ends. Massage a few drops into your scalp to nourish and stimulate hair follicles.
8. In a Bath Soak
Add 1–2 tablespoons to warm bath water for a luxurious, spa-like soak. The steam releases the lavender aroma, melting stress away.
9. In Homemade Skincare Recipes
Lavender oil can be used as a base for:
- Lip balms
- Body butters
- Face serums
- Salves and lotions
Its antimicrobial and soothing qualities make it ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
10. To Heal Minor Cuts, Burns, and Insect Bites
Apply directly to small wounds, bug bites, or burns to speed healing and reduce irritation.
11. As a Baby-Safe Calming Oil
When diluted further with extra carrier oil, lavender infused oil can be used for gentle baby massage to promote sleep and calm fussiness.
(Always patch test first and use pure, pesticide-free lavender.)
12. For Aromatherapy or Meditation
Add a few drops to your palms, inhale deeply, or use it in a diffuser to ease anxiety, nervous tension, or emotional overload.
Lavender’s aroma has been scientifically shown to lower heart rate, reduce cortisol levels, and improve mood.
Troubleshooting & Tips
If your oil smells sour or cloudy, it may have developed moisture or bacteria – discard and start fresh with fully dried flowers. Always ensure your jar, utensils, and herbs are clean and dry before infusion.
Tip: Strain your infused oil twice if you notice small particles of lavender left behind – this helps extend shelf life.
How to Grow and Harvest Your Own Lavender for Infusion
If you grow your own lavender, you can take your oil-making experience to the next level.
Harvesting Tips:
- Cut flower stalks just as buds begin to open, when oils are most concentrated.
- Harvest in the morning after the dew dries.
- Tie stalks in small bundles and hang upside down in a cool, dark place to dry completely.
You’ll know your lavender is ready when buds feel crisp and aromatic to the touch.
Once dried, gently remove the buds from stems and store them in an airtight jar for future infusions.
Lavender infused oil is more than just a beauty product – it’s a ritual. Each time you apply it, you’re taking a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature’s calm energy.
