How do you make lemon essence oil?

To make lemon essential oil, you'll need fresh lemons and a method of extracting the oil. Here's a simple guide using the cold-press method:

Materials:

1. Fresh lemons

2. A sharp knife or zester

3. A glass or ceramic bowl

4. Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer

5. A glass or amber-colored bottle with a tight-fitting lid

6. A spoon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lemons:

- Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.

- Pat them dry with a clean cloth.

2. Extract the Lemon Zest:

- Using a sharp knife or a zester, carefully remove the zest from the lemons.

- Avoid taking the white pith underneath the zest, as it can add a bitter taste to the oil.

3. Collect the Zest:

- Place the lemon zest in the glass or ceramic bowl.

4. Add Water (Optional):

- You can add a small amount of water (about 1/4 cup) to the bowl to help extract the oil.

- This step is optional, but it can help increase the yield of essential oil.

5. Refrigerate:

- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the zest for at least 24 hours.

- This step allows the oil glands in the zest to break down and release their oils.

6. Strain the Mixture:

- After refrigeration, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a glass jar or bottle.

7. Let the Oil Settle:

- Let the strained mixture sit undisturbed for several hours or overnight.

- The essential oil will separate from the water, if added earlier, and rise to the surface.

8. Collect the Lemon Essential Oil:

- Carefully pour or pipette the layer of essential oil into the prepared glass or amber-colored bottle.

9. Store the Essential Oil:

- Seal the bottle tightly to prevent evaporation.

- Store the lemon essential oil in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight.

10. Enjoy Your Lemon Essence Oil:

- Your homemade lemon essence oil is ready to be used! You can add it to your favorite diffuser blends, homemade skincare products, or even in culinary preparations where a lemony flavor is desired.

Remember, essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used in small amounts. Always dilute them with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, before topical use on the skin.