Rosemary is one of the most popular herbs in the kitchen and the garden. Known for its fragrant aroma and sharp flavour, it is a staple in Mediterranean cooking and a beloved addition to roasts, breads and marinades. Beyond its culinary uses, rosemary has long been valued for its medicinal and aromatic qualities. One of the most versatile ways to capture the essence of rosemary is by making oil from the plant. Rosemary infused oil can be used in cooking, skincare, massage and even as a natural household product. Learning how to make oil from rosemary plant is both simple and rewarding, offering a natural way to preserve the herb’s unique properties.
Understanding rosemary and its qualities
Rosemary, or Rosmarinus officinalis, is a hardy evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and has needle like leaves that release a distinctive pine like scent. The plant contains essential oils with compounds such as cineole, camphor and rosmarinic acid, which are responsible for its fragrance, flavour and health benefits. By making rosemary oil, you extract these aromatic compounds into a liquid form that can be stored and used in many ways.
Different types of rosemary oil
It is important to distinguish between essential oil and infused oil. Rosemary essential oil is produced through steam distillation, a specialised process that requires professional equipment and produces a highly concentrated oil. Essential oil should be used with care, as it is potent and needs diluting before applying to the skin. Rosemary infused oil, on the other hand, is made by steeping rosemary leaves in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or sunflower oil. This method is simple and suitable for home use, producing an oil that carries the scent and benefits of rosemary without being overpowering.
Choosing and preparing rosemary
To make the best oil, start with fresh or dried rosemary. Fresh sprigs should be harvested in the morning once the dew has dried, when the concentration of essential oils is at its peak. Wash the rosemary gently to remove any dirt or insects, then pat it dry thoroughly. It is important to ensure there is no excess moisture on the leaves, as water can cause the oil to spoil. If you prefer, you can use dried rosemary, which also works well and avoids the risk of water contamination. Drying rosemary concentrates its oils, though it produces a slightly different fragrance compared to fresh sprigs.
Choosing a carrier oil
The carrier oil is just as important as the rosemary itself. Olive oil is a popular choice for culinary uses, adding richness to the infusion. For skincare, lighter oils such as grapeseed oil, almond oil or sunflower oil may be preferable as they absorb more easily into the skin. Each oil lends its own qualities to the infusion, so the choice depends on how you intend to use the finished product. The carrier oil should be fresh, of good quality and neutral enough not to overpower the rosemary.
The cold infusion method
The simplest way to make rosemary oil is the cold infusion method. Fill a clean glass jar with rosemary sprigs, either fresh or dried, and cover them completely with your chosen carrier oil. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm, sunny spot such as a windowsill. Over the course of two to four weeks, the oil absorbs the fragrance and compounds from the rosemary. Shake the jar gently every few days to help the infusion process. Once the oil has reached the desired strength, strain it through a fine mesh or muslin cloth to remove the plant material. Pour the finished oil into a clean, dark glass bottle to protect it from light and extend its shelf life.
The heat infusion method
For a quicker result, you can use heat to speed up the infusion. Place rosemary and oil in a heatproof jar or bowl, then set it in a saucepan of gently simmering water, creating a makeshift double boiler. Keep the water at a low temperature for two to three hours, ensuring the oil never boils, as overheating can damage its beneficial compounds. Once cooled, strain and store the oil in a clean bottle. The heat infusion method produces rosemary oil in a single afternoon, though the flavour and aroma may be slightly less complex compared to the cold infusion method.
Storing rosemary oil
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of rosemary oil. Always use sterilised jars and bottles to prevent contamination. Dark glass bottles are ideal, as they protect the oil from sunlight, which can cause it to degrade. Keep the oil in a cool, dark cupboard, and it should last for several months. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life further, particularly if fresh rosemary was used in the infusion. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as a rancid smell or cloudiness, before using the oil.
Culinary uses of rosemary oil
Rosemary infused oil brings an aromatic lift to many dishes. It can be drizzled over roasted vegetables, used as a dip for bread, or added to marinades for meat and fish. It is especially good in Mediterranean inspired dishes, enhancing the natural flavours of tomatoes, garlic and lemon. Because infused oil carries a more subtle flavour than essential oil, it is safe and delicious to use directly in cooking. A bottle of homemade rosemary oil also makes a thoughtful gift for food lovers.
Skincare and wellness uses
Beyond the kitchen, rosemary oil is valued in skincare and wellness routines. Its natural compounds have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making it a popular ingredient in homemade balms, creams and massage oils. When massaged into the scalp, rosemary oil is often said to promote circulation and support healthy hair growth. In aromatherapy, its invigorating scent is believed to sharpen focus and relieve fatigue. Always perform a patch test before using infused oils on the skin, and consult a professional before using rosemary oil for medicinal purposes.
Household uses
Rosemary oil can even find a place in household care. Adding a few drops to a spray bottle of water creates a natural cleaner with a pleasant fragrance. It can also be used in homemade candles or diffusers, providing a refreshing aroma that fills a room. Insect repellent sprays sometimes include rosemary, as its strong scent helps deter certain pests. Making oil at home gives you the freedom to experiment with these different uses, tailoring the strength and type of oil to your needs.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common error when making rosemary oil is not drying fresh rosemary properly before infusing. Moisture trapped in the oil can encourage mould or bacteria to grow, causing the oil to spoil quickly. Another mistake is overheating the oil during the heat infusion method, which can burn the rosemary and create an unpleasant taste. Using poor quality carrier oil can also affect the final product, as the oil will take on both the flavour and freshness of the base. Paying attention to these details ensures a better outcome.
Why rosemary oil is worth making
The appeal of making rosemary oil lies in its versatility and simplicity. With minimal equipment and ingredients, you can create a product that is both useful and enjoyable. It allows you to preserve rosemary from your garden or kitchen and use it in new ways. Each time you open a bottle of homemade oil, the fragrance of rosemary brings a touch of summer and the Mediterranean into your home.
Conclusion
So, how do you make oil from rosemary plant? The process involves selecting fresh or dried rosemary, pairing it with a suitable carrier oil and allowing the infusion to develop through either cold or heat methods. With proper preparation, storage and care, you can create an oil that captures the essence of rosemary and can be used in cooking, skincare, aromatherapy or household care. Simple yet rewarding, making rosemary oil is an excellent way to extend the value of this versatile herb and enjoy its benefits long after it has been harvested.
