How to Extract Oil from Pine Needles: A Festive Herbal Craft

The scent of pine trees is synonymous with the Christmas season, evoking memories of fresh snow, warm fires, and family togetherness. Here on the homestead, I love finding ways to use what nature provides—and pine needles are a treasure trove of benefits! One of my favorite projects this time of year is extracting oil from pine needles. Not only does it smell amazing, but it also has a variety of uses, from aromatherapy to cleaning and even skincare.

In today’s post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps of making pine needle oil at home.

Why Pine Needle Oil?

Pine needles are packed with beneficial compounds, including:

Antioxidants that promote skin health.

Antimicrobial properties for cleaning and wound care.

Refreshing aroma that helps clear the mind and uplift the spirit.

Plus, it's a wonderful way to capture the wonders of the Christmas season in a bottle!

What You’ll Need

Fresh pine needles (collected from a pesticide-free source)

A clean, dry glass jar with a lid

Carrier oil (such as olive oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil)

A cheesecloth or fine strainer

A dark glass bottle for storage

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Fresh Pine Needles

Head out into the crisp winter air and gather a small bundle of fresh pine needles. Make sure they’re green, fragrant, and free from any brown spots or signs of decay. Give them a rinse to remove dirt and debris, and pat them dry with a clean towel.

2. Chop or Crush the Needles

To help release their oils, chop the pine needles into small pieces or crush them gently using a mortar and pestle.

3. Fill Your Jar

Place the chopped pine needles into your clean glass jar, filling it about halfway. Don’t pack them too tightly—leave some room for the oil to move around.

4. Add Your Carrier Oil

Pour your chosen carrier oil over the pine needles, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Fill the jar to the top to minimize air exposure, which can cause spoilage.

5. Infuse the Oil

Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm spot, like a sunny windowsill. Let the pine needles steep for 4–6 weeks, giving the jar a gentle shake every few days to help the infusion process.

6. Strain & Store

Once the infusion period is complete, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine strainer into a dark glass bottle. Squeeze the cheesecloth to extract every drop of oil. Label your bottle and store it in a cool, dark place.

How to Use Pine Needle Oil

Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to a diffuser for a refreshing, woodsy scent.

Massage Oil: Mix with a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil for a festive, soothing blend.

Natural Cleaner: Combine with vinegar and water for a DIY pine-scented cleaner.

Skincare: Use sparingly as a moisturizer or in homemade salves.

A Note of Caution

Always do a patch test before using pine needle oil on your skin to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction. Pregnant or breastfeeding moms should consult a healthcare professional before use.

This Christmas, as the snow falls and the fire crackles, let’s take a moment to appreciate the abundance of nature. Pine needle oil is more than just a craft—it’s a way to connect with the season, create something meaningful, and fill your home with the scent of Christmas cheer.

Until next time,

stay rooted,

Momma J

“Rooted in tradition, crafted for wellness.”