Eucalyptus Leaves
If you've ever smelled eucalyptus, you know that it's an acquired smell. Most people either love it or hate it, as it's a very natural, strong, earthy fragrance. Eucalyptus oil is used by aroma therapists and herbalists for a variety of therapeutic benefits. The Aborigines of Australia were actually the first to use it as a fever reducer and skin treatment. Though it takes about 110 lbs. of eucalyptus leaves to make 2 lbs. of oil, you can attempt the process on a much smaller scale.
Instructions
1. Crush the eucalyptus leaves ever so slightly using your fingers. This releases the leaves' essential oils.
2. Mix the oil and leaves together in a large crock pot. Use a ratio of 1/4 oz. of leaves for every 1 cup of oil.
3. Set the crock pot on low and "cook" the mixture for at least six hours. Alternatively, the leaves and oil can be mixed in a mason jar and left in the sun for two weeks.
4. Strain the oil using a cheese cloth after the time has elapsed (either six hours or two weeks).
5. Pour the oil into a clean mason jar, label it with the contents and the date it was created, and store the oil in a cool, dry spot. The shelf life for eucalyptus oil is about six months. If refrigerated, it can last longer.
