heated lavender oil infusion

[deg195]

A friend gave me a bunch of Lavender plants he cut down for the winter. I want to make a heat infusion with olive oil. This is our plan from some of research.
1. dry the leaves and buds in microwave 30 sec x4 times
2. then heat the leaves/buds in olive oil (not sure of the amts yet) simmering for 5 min then strain - use oil after 1 wk
So, my questions are;
1. ok to use leaves?
2. heating time- is it enough?
Is there a better way?
Thanks, Barb

 

[judymoody]

I don't know about the microwave time. I just bundle up the lavender by the stems, hand it upside down, and then strip them of leaves and buds once dry.

If you are intending to use this for soap, not much scent will remain after saponification, if any. The soap will also end up a tan color.

 

[deg195]

Thanks Judy - Did not realize the soap would turn colors.