Make your own ginger oil: two easy methods for your DIY project

Ginger oil has a wonderfully spicy scent, warms the skin and has numerous health benefits. But did you know you can make it yourself? We’ll show you two ways to make your own ginger oil – with very little effort.

Why is ginger oil good for you?

Ginger oil is full of valuable ingredients. It has anti-inflammatory, circulatory and warming properties. It can work wonders for tension, colds and digestive problems. It also supports the immune system and has antioxidant properties.

Used as a massage oil, bath oil or for inhalation, ginger oil is a real all-rounder. But enough theory, let’s get started!

How to make ginger oil from fresh ginger:

Ingredients

To make ginger oil you will need

• 50g of fresh organic ginger
• 250ml of good quality carrier oil (such as olive, coconut or almond oil)
• A sharp knife or grater
• A clean glass bottle or jar with a screw top
• A small pot or bowl
• A fine sieve or tea towel

Instructions: Making Your Own Ginger Oil

• Prepare the ginger: Wash the ginger thoroughly and allow to dry well. Cut into thin slices or grate finely.
• Heat the oil: Pour the carrier oil into a small saucepan and heat gently over a low heat. Do not allow the oil to boil!
• Steep the ginger: Add the prepared ginger to the oil and simmer over a low heat for about two hours. Stir occasionally.
• Strain: Allow the ginger oil to cool slightly and strain through a fine sieve or kitchen towel into the prepared glass bottle.
• Store:Close the bottle tightly and store the ginger oil in a cool, dark place. It will keep for about two to three months.

Uses of ginger oil – external use

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is valued for its many uses. Ginger is said to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. 

• Massage: Ginger oil has a warming and relaxing effect on tension or muscle pain.
• Bath additive: A few drops in a hot bath promotes circulation and warms the body.
•  Aromatherapy: The spicy scent lifts the mood and has a revitalising effect. Place a few drops on a cloth and inhale.

Use ginger oil internally

Ginger is said to help with listlessness, exhaustion, cramps, menstrual cramps or nausea, and pain caused by inflammation. Take a few drops of ginger with half a teaspoon of honey.

You can also use ginger oil to flavour food.