Mint Mint
How do you extract the oil from a mint plant?
Is there a stove top method? I have various mint plants, peppermint, spearmint, lemon mint, pineapple mint and chocolate mint? Also, What else can you do with mint besides make tea?
Here is something you could try:
1)Make an infused-herb oil.For this you need1/2 pint mason jar with two piece lid,3/4 cup of the mint you want to extract,3/4 cup of oil of your choice(sweet almond,olive,sunflower etc.)2 tablespoons 190-proof alcohol.
Wash the herb, chop coarsley.Allow them to slightly wilt overnight to reduce moisture content. Fill jar with them leaving two inches of head space. Cover the herb with oil using a butter knife to get out any air bubbles along the inside of the jar. The herb needs to be completely covered in oil so add more if needed.Pour 1/2 inch of vodka or other 190-proof alcohol on top. Cover with tight fitting lid and shake for a minute.Remove cover.With 4 layers of cheesecloth and a rubber band cover mouth of jar and set in the sun for 2 weeks (or sunny window sill)Oil should have taken on color of the herb and alcohol should be evaporated.Strain through cheesecloth, pressing the herbs to extract as much oil as possible.Oil must sit overnight. Carefully siphon remaining oil from sludge or water that may have settled.Store in refrigerater in glass bottle. Amber bottles are best.