Choose fresh or dried plant material
Wash and dry the plant material if needed
Select an extraction method
Use steam distillation for most flowers, leaves, and herbs
Use cold pressing for citrus peels
Use solvent extraction for delicate botanicals
Use infusion for a simple oil blend, not a true essential oil
Place the plant material in the distillation apparatus
Add water if using steam distillation
Heat the mixture to produce steam
Collect the condensed vapor
Separate the essential oil from the hydrosol
Filter the oil if needed
Store the oil in a dark glass bottle
Keep the bottle tightly sealed
Store in a cool, dark place
Test a small amount for skin safety before use