Lavender, with its captivating fragrance and beautiful purple blooms, is more than just a pretty flower. It’s a versatile herb cherished for its calming properties, culinary uses, and medicinal benefits. One of the best ways to harness the power of lavender is by making your own extract. This allows you to control the ingredients and create a potent and pure product perfect for baking, aromatherapy, and natural remedies. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring you create a high-quality lavender extract at home.
Understanding Lavender Extract
Lavender extract is a concentrated solution of lavender’s aromatic and therapeutic compounds dissolved in a solvent, usually alcohol or glycerin. The solvent extracts the essential oils and other beneficial components from the lavender flowers, resulting in a liquid that can be used in various applications. The key to a successful extract lies in the quality of the lavender and the extraction process itself.
Why Make Your Own Lavender Extract?
There are numerous reasons to consider making your own lavender extract instead of purchasing it pre-made.
Firstly, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can choose organic lavender, ensuring a pesticide-free product. You also get to decide on the type of solvent used, opting for a higher-proof alcohol for a more potent extract or glycerin for an alcohol-free alternative.
Secondly, homemade extract is often more cost-effective, especially if you have access to your own lavender plants. Purchasing high-quality, pure lavender extract can be quite expensive, making the DIY route a budget-friendly option.
Thirdly, the experience of creating your own extract is rewarding. It connects you with nature and allows you to appreciate the process of transforming a simple flower into a valuable resource.
Choosing Your Lavender and Solvent
The quality of your lavender and solvent will significantly impact the final product. Let’s explore the options.
Selecting the Right Lavender
Not all lavender varieties are created equal. Some are better suited for extract production than others. Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender or true lavender, is generally considered the best choice due to its high essential oil content and sweet, floral aroma. Other varieties like Lavandula x intermedia (lavandin) can also be used, but they have a stronger, more camphoraceous scent.
When harvesting lavender, choose fresh, vibrant flowers that are fully open. The peak time for harvesting is typically in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the sun becomes too intense. This helps preserve the essential oils. Ensure the lavender is free from pests, diseases, and excessive dirt.
Choosing Your Solvent: Alcohol vs. Glycerin
The solvent you choose will determine the type of extract you produce. The two most common solvents are alcohol and vegetable glycerin.
Alcohol is the traditional choice for extract making. It’s highly effective at extracting essential oils and creates a potent extract with a long shelf life. Opt for a high-proof (80-100 proof or 40-50% alcohol by volume) vodka or grain alcohol. Avoid rubbing alcohol, as it’s not safe for consumption or cosmetic use.
Vegetable glycerin is a natural, sweet-tasting liquid derived from plant oils. It’s an excellent alcohol-free alternative, making it suitable for those who avoid alcohol for dietary or religious reasons. However, glycerin extracts are typically less potent than alcohol-based extracts and have a shorter shelf life. They also tend to be slightly sweeter.
The Extraction Process: Step-by-Step
Now, let’s delve into the actual process of making lavender extract. This guide will cover both alcohol and glycerin extraction methods.
Method 1: Alcohol Extraction
This is the most common and effective method for making lavender extract.
Step 1: Prepare the Lavender
Gently rinse the fresh lavender flowers to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel. You can use the entire flower head, including the stems, but removing the stems will result in a purer, more concentrated extract. Lightly crush the flowers to release their aroma.
Step 2: Combine Lavender and Alcohol
Place the crushed lavender flowers in a clean glass jar. Pour the high-proof alcohol over the lavender, ensuring the flowers are completely submerged. The ratio of lavender to alcohol is typically 1:2 (e.g., 1 cup of lavender flowers to 2 cups of alcohol).
Step 3: Infuse the Mixture
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to ensure even extraction. The longer the lavender infuses, the stronger the extract will be.
Step 4: Strain the Extract
After the infusion period, strain the extract through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. This will remove the lavender flowers and leave you with a clear liquid.
Step 5: Store the Extract
Pour the strained extract into a clean, airtight glass bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, alcohol-based lavender extract can last for several years.
Method 2: Glycerin Extraction
This method is ideal for those seeking an alcohol-free option.
Step 1: Prepare the Lavender
Follow the same preparation steps as in the alcohol extraction method. Rinse, dry, and lightly crush the fresh lavender flowers.
Step 2: Combine Lavender and Glycerin
Place the crushed lavender flowers in a clean glass jar. Pour the vegetable glycerin over the lavender, ensuring the flowers are completely submerged. Use the same 1:2 ratio as with the alcohol extraction.
Step 3: Infuse the Mixture
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days.
Step 4: Strain the Extract
Strain the extract through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Glycerin is thicker than alcohol, so it may take longer to strain.
Step 5: Store the Extract
Pour the strained extract into a clean, airtight glass bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place. Glycerin-based lavender extract has a shorter shelf life than alcohol-based extract, typically lasting for 1-2 years. It’s best to refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life.
Tips for a Potent Extract
Here are some additional tips to ensure you create a potent and high-quality lavender extract:
- Use fresh, high-quality lavender. The fresher the lavender, the more potent the extract.
- Crush the lavender flowers lightly to release their essential oils.
- Use a high-proof alcohol for optimal extraction (if using the alcohol method).
- Infuse for a longer period for a stronger extract. Some people infuse for up to 8 weeks.
- Store the extract in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light degradation.
- Shake the jar regularly during the infusion period to ensure even extraction.
- Consider a double extraction for an even more potent extract. After straining the first batch, add fresh lavender flowers to the strained liquid and infuse for another 4-6 weeks.
Uses for Your Homemade Lavender Extract
Homemade lavender extract has a wide range of applications, from culinary to aromatherapy.
Culinary Uses: Add a few drops of lavender extract to baked goods like cookies, cakes, and scones for a delicate floral flavor. It can also be used to flavor beverages like lemonade, tea, and cocktails. Be careful not to overdo it, as lavender can be overpowering. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Aromatherapy Uses: Lavender extract can be added to diffusers to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It can also be added to bathwater for a soothing soak. Dilute the extract with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or jojoba oil, before applying it to the skin.
Natural Remedies: Lavender extract is known for its calming and sleep-promoting properties. Add a few drops to a pillow or diffuser before bedtime to help you relax and fall asleep. It can also be used to soothe minor burns, cuts, and insect bites.
Troubleshooting Your Extract
While making lavender extract is relatively straightforward, here are some common issues and how to address them:
Weak Extract: If your extract is not as potent as you’d like, try using more lavender flowers or infusing for a longer period.
Cloudy Extract: A cloudy extract can be caused by sediment from the lavender flowers. Re-strain the extract through a finer filter, such as a coffee filter.
Mold Growth: Mold growth is rare, but if you notice any mold in your extract, discard it immediately. Ensure your jar is properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place to prevent mold growth.
Overpowering Flavor: If your extract is too strong, dilute it with more alcohol or glycerin, depending on the type of extract you’ve made.
Conclusion
Making your own lavender extract is a rewarding and simple process. By following these steps and tips, you can create a potent and pure extract that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to add a delicate floral flavor to your baking, create a calming aromatherapy blend, or explore natural remedies, homemade lavender extract is a valuable addition to your herbal toolkit. Enjoy the process and savor the fragrant benefits of this amazing flower.
What is the best type of alcohol to use for making lavender extract?
The best type of alcohol to use for making lavender extract is a high-proof, neutral-flavored spirit. Vodka with an alcohol content of at least 80 proof (40% ABV) is commonly recommended and readily available. The higher the proof, the more effectively the alcohol will extract the essential oils and fragrance compounds from the lavender blossoms. Avoid flavored vodkas or spirits with strong aromas, as these can interfere with the pure lavender scent you are trying to achieve.
Alternatively, you can use food-grade ethanol, sometimes called neutral grain spirits. These spirits typically have a higher proof than vodka (often around 190 proof or 95% ABV) and can create a very potent extract. However, they may be harder to find and require special permits in some locations. Regardless of your choice, ensure the alcohol is safe for consumption, as your final lavender extract will be used for culinary or cosmetic purposes.
How long does it take for lavender extract to be ready?
The time it takes for lavender extract to be ready is typically between 4 to 6 weeks. This steeping period allows the alcohol to fully extract the essential oils and flavor compounds from the fresh lavender blossoms. The longer the lavender steeps, the more concentrated and flavorful the extract will become. Be patient during this process, as rushing it can result in a weaker and less aromatic final product.
During the steeping period, store the jar in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Gently shake the jar every few days to ensure even extraction. After the initial 4 weeks, taste-test the extract and decide if you would like to continue steeping for an additional 1 to 2 weeks to enhance the flavor further. Once satisfied, proceed to the next step of straining and bottling the extract.
Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh lavender?
Yes, you can use dried lavender to make lavender extract, although the resulting extract will likely have a slightly different flavor profile compared to using fresh lavender. Dried lavender often has a more concentrated and sometimes slightly musty aroma compared to the bright, floral scent of fresh lavender. The essential oils in dried lavender may also have undergone some oxidation, which can affect the final extract’s taste and color.
If using dried lavender, you will generally need to use a smaller amount compared to fresh lavender, as the flavor is more concentrated. Start with about half the amount of dried lavender that the recipe calls for in fresh lavender and adjust to taste as needed. Keep in mind that the steeping time may also be slightly shorter since the oils are already more accessible in dried form.
How should I store my homemade lavender extract?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and potency of your homemade lavender extract. Store the extract in a dark-colored glass bottle, such as amber or cobalt blue, to protect it from light exposure, which can degrade the flavor and aroma over time. Ensure the bottle is airtight to prevent evaporation and oxidation. Small dropper bottles are ideal for dispensing the extract in measured amounts.
Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. A pantry or cupboard is usually a suitable location. Properly stored lavender extract can last for several years without significant loss of flavor or potency. While the alcohol content helps preserve the extract, maintaining consistent storage conditions will further extend its shelf life.
What are some uses for homemade lavender extract?
Homemade lavender extract has a wide range of culinary and cosmetic applications. In cooking, it can be used to flavor baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and scones, adding a delicate floral note. It also complements savory dishes like roasted meats and vegetables, providing a subtle herbal aroma. A few drops can enhance beverages like lemonade, tea, and cocktails, creating unique and sophisticated flavor profiles. Use lavender extract sparingly, as its flavor can be quite potent.
In cosmetics, lavender extract can be incorporated into homemade lotions, creams, and soaps for its calming and soothing properties. It can also be added to bathwater or used in aromatherapy diffusers to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The extract’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for skincare, helping to soothe minor skin irritations and promote healing. Always perform a patch test before applying lavender extract directly to the skin to check for any allergic reactions.
Can I use culinary lavender for this recipe?
Yes, using culinary lavender is highly recommended for making lavender extract, especially if you plan to use the extract for culinary purposes. Culinary lavender refers to specific varieties of lavender that have been cultivated for their sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy flavor profiles, making them suitable for cooking and baking. These varieties are generally lower in camphor, a compound that can give lavender a medicinal or slightly bitter taste.
Popular culinary lavender varieties include ‘Hidcote’, ‘Munstead’, and ‘Provence’. If you are unsure whether your lavender is suitable for culinary use, it is best to taste a small amount of the fresh blossoms before using them in the extract. Avoid using ornamental lavender varieties or lavender from garden centers that do not explicitly label the plant as culinary, as these may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals that are not safe for consumption.
What if my lavender extract turns brown?
If your lavender extract turns brown, it is likely due to oxidation or degradation of the lavender blossoms during the steeping process. While a slight color change is normal, a significant browning can indicate that the lavender was not completely submerged in alcohol or that it was exposed to too much light or heat. This browning may slightly affect the flavor of the extract, but it is generally still safe to use.
To prevent browning in future batches, ensure that all lavender blossoms are fully submerged in alcohol throughout the steeping period. Use a dark-colored glass jar to protect the extract from light, and store it in a cool, dark place. Consider using fresh, high-quality lavender blossoms that are free from any signs of decay or damage. If the extract turns brown and develops an off-putting smell or taste, it is best to discard it.