7 DIY Holiday Gifts Using Essential Oils: Simple and Heartfelt Ideas for the Festive Season
The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to show your loved ones you care than with a homemade gift? DIY gifts are not only thoughtful but also allow you to add a personal touch that store-bought presents just can't match. This year, why not incorporate essential oils into your gift-giving? Essential oils not only smell fantastic but also offer a range of benefits that can enhance your gifts. Let's explore some easy-to-make DIY holiday gift ideas using essential oils that are sure to delight your friends and family.
1. Scented Candles
Candles are a classic gift that never goes out of style. Making your own scented candles is easier than you might think, and adding essential oils can create a unique fragrance blend.
What You'll Need:
- Soy wax flakes
- Candle wicks
- Essential oils (like Lavender Peace™ or Citrus Bliss®)
- Glass jars
- A double boiler
Instructions:
- Melt the soy wax in a double boiler until fully liquefied.
- Secure the wick at the bottom of the glass jar using a bit of melted wax.
- Once the wax is melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil to the wax.
- Pour the wax into the jar, ensuring the wick stays centred.
- Let the candle cool and set for 24 hours before trimming the wick.
2. Relaxing Bath Bombs
Bath bombs are a luxurious treat that can turn any bath into a spa-like experience. Customise them with your favourite essential oils for a relaxing soak.
What You'll Need:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup Epsom salts
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Essential oils (such as Lavender Peace™ or On Guard®)
- Moulds (silicone or plastic)
- A few drops of food colouring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients: baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salts, and cornstarch.
- In a separate bowl, mix the essential oils with a few drops of food colouring and a teaspoon of water.
- Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring constantly to avoid fizzing.
- Pack the mixture tightly into the moulds.
- Let them dry for at least 24 hours before removing them from the moulds.
3. Aromatherapy Roll-Ons
Aromatherapy roll-ons are perfect for stress relief on the go. They are easy to make and can be customised with different essential oil blends.
What You'll Need:
- Rollerball bottles
- Carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil)
- Essential oils (consider Hope® Touch or Citrus Bliss®)
Instructions:
- Fill the rollerball bottle about 3/4 full with the carrier oil.
- Add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil blend.
- Secure the rollerball top and shake gently to mix.
- Decorate the bottle with a personalised label.
4. Homemade Lip Balm
Lip balm is a practical gift that everyone can appreciate, especially during the colder months. Infuse it with essential oils for added benefits.
What You'll Need:
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Essential oils (such as Lavender Peace™)
- Lip balm tubes or small tins
Instructions:
- Melt the beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Once melted, remove from heat and add 10 drops of essential oil.
- Pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or tins.
- Let them cool and harden before sealing.
5. Festive Room Sprays
Room sprays are a quick way to freshen up any space. Create a festive scent that captures the essence of the holidays.
What You'll Need:
- Small spray bottles
- Distilled water
- Witch hazel or vodka
- Essential oils (try a blend of On Guard® and Citrus Bliss®)
Instructions:
- Fill the spray bottle halfway with distilled water.
- Add a tablespoon of witch hazel or vodka to help the oils disperse.
- Add 20-30 drops of essential oils.
- Shake well before each use.
6. Soothing Hand Cream
A rich, soothing hand cream is a wonderful gift, especially during winter when skin tends to dry out. Infuse it with essential oils for added nourishment.
What You'll Need:
- 1/2 cup shea butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup almond oil
- Essential oils (like Lavender Peace™)
- Small jars or tins
Instructions:
- Melt the shea butter and coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Remove from heat and stir in the almond oil and essential oils.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then whip it with a hand mixer until fluffy.
- Transfer to jars or tins and seal.
7. Essential Oil Infused Soap
Homemade soap is a charming gift that can be tailored with different scents and colours.
What You'll Need:
- Melt and pour soap base
- Essential oils (such as Hope® Touch)
- Soap moulds
- Dried flowers or herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the soap base into small cubes and melt in a microwave or double boiler.
- Stir in 20-30 drops of essential oils and any dried flowers or herbs.
- Pour into soap moulds and let them set for a few hours.
- Once hardened, remove from the moulds and package as desired.
Creating DIY gifts with essential oils is not only fun but also a meaningful way to show your loved ones how much you care. These gifts are simple to make and can be customised to suit the preferences of the recipient. Plus, they offer the added benefits of essential oils, making them both delightful and practical. So this holiday season, embrace the spirit of giving with these thoughtful and aromatic DIY gifts. Happy crafting!