residential weekend course

make your own essential oils and herb waters


venue: Redfield Community, Bucks

This course is run by Mike Harmon of Skinbuddy, and will show students how to use a simple distillation kit to produce essential oils and waters from fresh or dried plants.

The production of essential oils and distillate waters (aromatic waters, hydrosols etc) is an ancient practice that started with the use of simple ‘retort’ stills. Nowadays, plant essences are most often produced by large–scale industrial stills, which can output hundred of litres of essential oils and hydrosols per day. However, modern-day advances in distillation technology have made it possible for individuals to produce appreciable amounts of their own high-quality essential oils and distillate waters at home — through the use of small-scale, easy-to-use equipment.

Making essential oils etc is a fascinating process in its own right, and one that is always thoroughly rewarding. The aim of the course is to provide an easy, step-by-step guide to making your own essential oils and distillate waters from raw herb material for both personal and therapeutic application, so that you can effectively and safely employ these procedures at home.

The first day provides students with the historical background and practical knowledge of the techniques used to produce essential oils, distillate waters and various herbal extracts, including a demonstration of the distillation techniques covered. The second day gives the students the opportunity to put into practice the theory learnt on the first day. Students will be split into groups and assigned to a work station containing all the necessary equipment and raw materials needed to make their own essential oils and distillate waters.
The course includes:

  • introduction to the history and theory of aromatic extract and essential oil / distillate water production
  • introduction to the processes of steam and water distillation, and their application to the small-scale production of essential oils and distillate waters
  • practical experience of making these products (students get to take home what they produce in class)
  • basic laboratory health and safety
  • advanced extraction techniques
  • product storage, shelf-life and legal considerations
  • overview of a selection of distillate water and infused oil monographs

Participants receive a copy of our book, Make your own Essential Oils and Skin-care Products, which contains detailed diagrams and instructions to continue the procedures they have learnt at home.

more on essential oils


how to book:
 

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arrive:
 
Friday evening at 6.30 for dinner at 7.30
depart:
 
Sunday after lunch (served at 1.00)
directions:
 
click here for directions by bicycle, public transport and car
what to bring:
 
pen and notebook; towel (meals and bedding are provided)
NO DOGS PLEASE
let us know:
 
if you are vegan or have any food allergies, or any special needs
accommodation:
 
3-4 people sharing single-sex rooms
prices:
 
£190 high-waged; £160 waged;
£130 student / unwaged
Refundable up to two weeks prior to course (minus £30 admin fee)
No refunds for cancellations within two weeks of course
discounts:
 
car sharing:
 
visit our car sharing forum to offer or request a lift
 


this is the kind of equipment used to produce essential oils and distillate waters at home

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


tutor Mike distilling oils from fresh mint on a course at Redfield

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


hydro-distillation of coriander seeds - both essential oil and distillate water can be used to aid digestion