How to: Dandelion Oil
Step 1: Harvesting dandelions
Harvest dandelions (from fields / lawns / gardens that haven’t been sprayed with chemicals) in a sunny day, not too early in the morning so that the dew has evaporated.
Only harvest full ones! They should be open and not have any dark spots. You can cut them just under the flower heads, as we’re only using the flowers.
How many you harvest is really up to you! Depends on how much oil you want to make / the size of your container. Please note that dried flowers take up wayyy less space than fresh ones so gather at least twice the size of your container if you want to fill it completely (it is not necessary though).
Step 2: Wash & Dry the dandelions
Dandelions are usually full of small insects. Be sure to wash them carefully, but don’t crush them! A good idea if you can’t get all the insects to come off is to leave the flowers spread out on a towel for a few minutes (not too long though) and see if insects come out of their own.
I know some people only let the flowers wilt overnight, but I prefer to let them dry longer, up to 3/ 4 days. This way mold won’t grow in the jar. Remember to place the flowers on a towel in an airy room, where they won’t be disturbed while they dry. Turn the flowers upside down after 1 day to help the drying process.
Step 3: Making Dandelion Oil
When the flowers are ready, put them in a jar and cover them with olive oil: you don’t have to fill the whole jar, just enough to cover the dandelions. Remove air bubbles with a knife and stir a bit.
Cover the jar with cheesecloth / cotton: this way, mold won’t form and ruin your oil. Tie the cloth with an elastic and place the jar in a sunny spot for 2 weeks. Do not leave it longer than that! Otherwise mold will grow.
After two weeks, strain the flowers: you can use a funnel to pour the oil in another bottle/jar.
The dandelion oil is ready! Do not leave it in the sun, and if possible store it in a dark glass bottle/jar.
Please remember that you must use it within a year of making it, so label the bottle! (Trust me, you will forget when you made it)
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