Essential oils are used in many ways. The scented oils made from your garden will possess some of the same properties as professional essential oils, but not all.
You'll need a lot of plant material to produce your own essential oil as the amount of oil in most herbs in minute. Pack an enamel or glass pan with your herb or herbal blend and cover with vegetable oil. Steep for a day, strain away the plant matter, and repeat the process five times using fresh herbs and the same oil. Store in a tightly sealed glass jar. Use for making potpourris, candles, or soaps.
For a hint of the exotic, add finely ground spices to your scented oil. Mix equal parts cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice, or anise, cardamom, and cilantro [coriander].
Essential oils must be diluted before being applied to the skin; they are highly toxic when concentrated.
Essential oil doesn't go off but the carrier oil will; only make up a month's store.
PRECAUTION:
Avoid using essential oils if you are pregnant or nursing, unless you have the consent and supervision of an obstetrician.
ESSENTIAL TREATMENTS
Basil: anxiety, headaches
Chamomile: depression, insomnia
Rose: stress, circulation problems, nausea, headaches
Thyme: indigestion, muscle pain
