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Looking for more ways to make use of your essential oils? Well we've got 3 easy DIY recipes using essential oils that are just perfect for autumn! Read on to find out how to make your very own homemade deodorant, candles and soaps in any scent you choose!
Pumpkin spice lattes, chunky knits and the season of cosying up with a good book is now upon us once again. So if you're looking for a way to embrace this season of change and cosiness to keep boredom at bay during these darker evenings then why not have a go at making your own DIY homemade candles, soaps or deodorant using just a few simple ingredients? Once you get started, you will find that this past time is highly addictive, not to mention that if you start perfecting your craft now, you could have a collection of beautiful handmade treasures to gift to your friends and family in time for Christmas!
Have you ever noticed that autumn seems to be the season in which we are most observant of ingredients and fragrance? It seems that as soon as September falls, we're able to decipher the subtlest hints of cinnamon or a delicate dash of nutmeg, both in food and drink, as well as in the fragranced products we use daily. For these recipes, we're going to be using authentic autumnal scents from Nikura. Nikura offers an extensive range of high quality essential oils and self-care products made from their natural oils. As well as stocking the most common essential oils, such as lavender and tea tree, they also have a range of naturally formed fragrance mixes for different occasions and seasons.
What Can You Use Essential Oils and Fragrance Oils For?
Essential oils and fragrance oils can be used for a variety of purposes. From aromatherapy to natural pain remedies, skincare, haircare, sleep aids, candles, soaps, deodorants and more. Today we're looking at how to make homemade DIY soaps, candles and natural deodorant using fragrance oils. This is so much fun! I promise that once you start, you will become addicted to making these little homemade treats. The best part about this hobby is that the process of making handmade soaps, candles and deodorants is very simple, yet you can customise them in any way you wish simply by using different fragrance oils.
About Nikura
All of the ingredients mentioned below can be purchased from Nikura.com
Nikura is a leading UK-based retailer of high quality, 100% pure essential oils and fragrance oils. Not only does Nikura ensure guaranteed quality through their products that are sourced from all over the world, they are also committed to their ethical status by providing customers with vegan and cruelty-free products.
SHOP THE EDIT
Winter spices, peppermint, apple and cinnamon, hot chocolate and macaroon, baked cinnamon bun
Simple DIY Homemade Soap Recipe Using Essential Oils
This DIY soap is gentle on the skin and customisable with your favourite essential oils and natural additives. Perfect for gifts or personal use!
Ingredients:
500g melt and pour soap base (glycerin or shea butter works well)
1-2 tbsp of carrier oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil for extra moisture)
Optional: dried flowers or herbs (like lavender buds or chamomile)
Silicone soap moulds
Instructions:
Melt the Soap Base
Cut the melt and pour soap base into small chunks. Place the pieces in a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully liquid. Alternatively, you can melt the soap base using a double boiler.
Add Essential Oils
Once the soap base is fully melted, remove it from heat. Add 20-30 drops of your chosen essential oils and stir well to ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed. For a calming soap, lavender works well; for an invigorating feel, try peppermint or eucalyptus.
Mix in Carrier Oil
Stir in your carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) to add moisture and extra skin benefits. This will also help balance the drying effects of the soap base.
Add Optional Dried Flowers or Herbs
If you’d like to add a decorative or exfoliating element, mix in dried flowers like lavender buds or herbs like rosemary at this stage.
Pour into Molds
Pour the mixture into your silicone moulds. Be careful not to overfill, and lightly tap the moulds to release any air bubbles.
Let the Soap Set
Allow the soap to harden at room temperature for 1-2 hours or until completely solid. Once set, gently pop the soaps out of the moulds.
Enjoy! Your homemade soap is ready to use! Store it in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life.
DIY Homemade Deodorant Recipe with Essential Oils
Ingredients:
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
5-10 drops of essential oils (lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus work well)
Instructions:
Melt the Coconut Oil
Gently melt the coconut oil in a saucepan or microwave until it's completely liquefied.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the baking soda and arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) until evenly mixed.
Add the Coconut Oil
Slowly pour the melted coconut oil into the dry mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Add Essential Oils
Once mixed, add 5-10 drops of your favourite essential oils. For a light and refreshing scent, opt for peppermint or winter spices. If you'd prefer something rich and more fragrant, like perfume, choose hot chocolate and macaroon or baked cinnamon bun.
Transfer to a Container
Pour the mixture into a clean jar or small container with a lid. Let it cool and solidify before use.
To Use:
Apply a small amount to your underarms with your fingers. A little goes a long way!
DIY Homemade Candle Recipe Using Essential Oils
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of soy wax flakes (or beeswax)
- 1 wick (cotton or wooden)
- 10-15 drops of your favourite essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, or vanilla work well)
- 1 heat-resistant container (glass jar or tin)
- 1 double boiler or heat-safe bowl and pot
- A stirring utensil (like a wooden stick)
- Wick holder (pencil or chopstick)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wick:
Secure the wick in the centre of your container. You can use a dab of hot glue to stick the bottom of the wick to the base. Hold the wick upright by placing a pencil or chopstick across the top of the container and wrapping the wick around it.
2. Melt the Wax:
In a double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl placed over a pot of simmering water), melt the soy wax flakes slowly, stirring occasionally. Be sure not to overheat the wax.
3. Add Essential Oils:
Once the wax is fully melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly (just for a minute or two). Stir in 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oils. You can mix and match to create your own scent blend.
4. Pour the Wax:
Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared container, ensuring the wick stays centred.
5. Let It Cool:
Allow the candle to cool and harden for a few hours, preferably overnight. Trim the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting.
Your homemade essential oil candle is now ready to enjoy! It makes a great natural addition to your home or office, as well as a unique gift!
How to Store Your Homemade Candles and Soaps
Now that you've got the candle and soap making bug, you'll need to clear some extra room to make space for your DIY makes! Don't forget to store your creations in a cool, safe place away from direct sunlight. A basic cardboard or plastic box will do or an empty drawer or cupboard. Alternatively, give your drawers and wardrobe a scent boost by popping a wrapped handmade soap in your sock drawer or place in a net bag and hang on a hanger in your wardrobe. If you're planning to gift your products then consider wrapping them nicely in craft paper or placing them in gift boxes. Shop the full range of Nikura 100% pure essential oils and fragrance oils here.