Hummingbirds and Lavender

Holistic, Sustainable, Intentional

DIY Dandelion oil + 7 ways to use it

Nature’s Golden Elixir for Skin & Wellness

Often dismissed as just a stubborn weed, the humble dandelion is actually a powerhouse in herbal remedies, treasured for its soothing and nourishing properties. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to harness its benefits is by making dandelion oil—an infused oil crafted from sun-kissed dandelion flowers. This golden-hued elixir has long been cherished in herbalism and natural skincare for its ability to ease sore muscles, deeply moisturize dry skin, and promote overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to create a luxurious body oil, a healing salve, or a gentle massage blend, dandelion oil is a must-have for any natural wellness enthusiast

How to Make Dandelion Oil at Home

To make your own DIY dandelion oil, start by gathering fresh dandelion flowers from a clean, pesticide-free area. Spread them out on a towel and let them air dry for 12–24 hours to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent mold during infusion. Once dried, loosely pack the flowers into a clean, dry glass jar, filling it about halfway. Pour your choice of carrier oil—such as olive oil for its deep nourishment or sunflower oil for its light, fast-absorbing quality—over the flowers until they are fully submerged. Seal the jar and place it in a warm, sunny spot for 2–4 weeks, shaking it gently every few days to encourage infusion. When ready, strain out the flowers using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, transferring the golden oil into a clean bottle. Label your jar with the date and ingredients, and store your dandelion oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency. Now, it’s ready to be used in your favorite skincare rituals or soothing DIY creations!

7 Ways to Use Dandelion Oil

Soothing Massage Oil

Dandelion oil’s anti-inflammatory properties make it perfect for a gentle, relaxing massage. It helps ease tension, sore muscles, and joint discomfort while deeply nourishing the skin.

Luxurious Body Moisturizer

Rich in antioxidants and skin-loving nutrients, dandelion oil can be applied directly to dry or irritated skin to promote hydration and softness. It’s especially great for rough patches on elbows, knees, and heels.

Healing Salve for Skin Irritations

Combine dandelion oil with beeswax to create a soothing salve for minor cuts, scrapes, rashes, and bug bites. Its natural healing properties help calm inflammation and speed up skin recovery.

Nourishing Hair & Scalp Treatment

Massage dandelion oil into the scalp to combat dryness and itchiness while strengthening hair follicles. It adds a healthy shine and helps soothe dandruff or scalp irritation.

Gentle Facial Oil

With its lightweight, soothing qualities, dandelion oil works as a natural facial oil, reducing redness and irritation while providing a healthy glow. Best suited for dry or sensitive skin types.

Relaxing Bath Oil

Add a few drops of dandelion oil to your bath for a deeply calming and skin-softening experience. It helps melt away stress and tension while nourishing your skin.

DIY Herbal Lip Balm

Blend dandelion oil with beeswax and a touch of honey for a hydrating and protective lip balm. It helps keep lips soft, smooth, and free from dryness, especially in colder months.

Incorporating DIY dandelion oil into your wellness routine is a simple yet powerful way to embrace the healing properties of nature. From soothing sore muscles to nurturing your skin and hair, this golden elixir offers a variety of benefits that support a holistic, natural approach to self-care.

By taking the time to make your own dandelion oil, you connect with the earth’s gifts and create a product that’s tailored to your personal needs. Whether used in massages, moisturizers, or calming bath rituals, dandelion oil is a beautiful addition to your wellness arsenal—bringing balance, nourishment, and a touch of nature’s magic to your everyday life.

So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, embrace the DIY spirit, and enjoy the soothing benefits of dandelion oil in your own home!

DIY Rosemary Oil + 7 Ways to Use it

A Versatile Infusion for Mind, Body & Home 🌿✨

Rosemary has long been treasured for its aromatic, medicinal, and culinary benefits. Infusing rosemary into oil is a simple yet powerful way to capture its essence and enjoy its many uses in daily life. Whether you’re looking to nourish your hair, soothe sore muscles, or enhance your skincare routine, DIY rosemary oil is a must-have in any holistic wellness collection. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making rosemary oil and explore seven ways to incorporate it into your rituals. 🌱💆‍♀️

How to Make DIY Rosemary Oil

Creating your own rosemary-infused oil is a rewarding and easy process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh rosemary (or ½ cup dried rosemary) 🌿
  • 1 cup carrier oil (such as olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil) 🫒🥥
  • A clean, dry glass jar with a lid
  • A strainer or cheesecloth
  • A dark glass bottle for storage (optional)

Instructions:

  1. If using fresh rosemary, wash and thoroughly dry the sprigs to prevent moisture from causing mold.
  2. Lightly crush or bruise the rosemary leaves to release their natural oils. 🌱
  3. Place the rosemary in your clean glass jar and pour the carrier oil over it, ensuring the herb is fully submerged.
  4. Seal the jar and store it in a warm, sunny spot for 1-2 weeks, shaking it gently every day to encourage infusion. ☀️
  5. After the infusion period, strain the oil using a fine strainer or cheesecloth, discarding the rosemary.
  6. Transfer the infused oil to a clean, dark glass bottle for longer shelf life. 🌿
  7. Store in a cool, dark place, where it will keep for up to six months.

Seven Ways to Use Rosemary Oil

  1. Nourish & Strengthen Hair 💆‍♀️
    Rosemary oil is known for promoting hair growth, improving scalp health, and reducing dandruff. Massage a few drops into your scalp before showering, or mix it with your shampoo for an extra boost of nourishment.
  2. Soothe Sore Muscles & Joints 🏋️‍♂️
    Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, rosemary oil makes an excellent massage oil for relieving muscle tension and joint discomfort. Blend it with a carrier oil and rub onto sore areas after exercise or a long day.
  3. Boost Skincare with Antioxidant Power 🌿✨
    Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to facial oils, serums, and body lotions. Mix a few drops into your favorite moisturizer to help reduce puffiness and improve circulation.
  4. Enhance Mental Clarity & Focus 🧘‍♀️
    The invigorating scent of rosemary can help sharpen focus and reduce mental fatigue. Add a few drops to a diffuser or inhale directly from the bottle during study sessions or meditation.
  5. Create a Natural Insect Repellent 🦟🚫
    Rosemary’s strong herbal scent naturally repels mosquitoes and other pests. Blend rosemary oil with water and witch hazel in a spray bottle for an all-natural bug repellent.
  6. Revitalize Bath & Body Rituals 🛁
    Elevate your self-care routine by adding rosemary oil to bath water for a soothing soak. It also pairs beautifully with Epsom salts for a detoxifying and relaxing bath experience.
  7. Infuse Homemade Cleaning Products 🏡
    Rosemary’s antibacterial properties make it a great addition to DIY cleaning sprays. Mix rosemary oil with vinegar and water for a fresh-smelling, non-toxic cleaner that disinfects naturally.


Making your own rosemary oil is a simple yet rewarding way to harness the many benefits of this cherished herb. Whether you’re using it for hair care, relaxation, or even home cleaning, this versatile infusion is a staple for any holistic lifestyle.

Have you tried making rosemary oil before? Share your favorite ways to use it in the comments below! 🌿💚

How to Make Lavender Oil and 7 Ways to Use

Lavender- A Scented Embrace for Mind, Body & Soul

If nature had a signature scent of serenity, it would surely be lavender. For centuries, this fragrant purple bloom has been treasured in ancient healing rituals, culinary traditions, and beauty elixirs. Its delicate aroma whispers of sun-drenched fields in Provence, while its potent properties make it a true multitasker in holistic living. This month, we’re celebrating lavender—more than just a pretty flower, it’s a powerhouse for relaxation, wellness, and even your kitchen. Get ready to unlock seven beautiful ways to invite this botanical gem into your daily rhythm. 🌿💜

How to Make Your Own Lavender Oil: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating your own lavender oil at home is both simple and rewarding, and with this quick guide, you’ll be on your way to crafting a natural treasure to enjoy in your holistic lifestyle:

What You’ll Need

  • Fresh or dried lavender flowers
  • A carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil)
  • A clean glass jar with a lid
  • A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • A dark glass bottle for storing the oil

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Harvest or Buy Lavender
  • Choose fresh lavender flowers or dried lavender buds. Fresh lavender will yield a stronger fragrance, but dried flowers are convenient and still very effective.

Pro Tip: If using fresh lavender, make sure it’s fully dry to avoid any mold in the oil.

2. Prepare the Lavender

  • Gently bruise the lavender buds with your fingers to release their oils. If using fresh flowers, you can chop them up slightly to help them infuse more easily.

3. Fill the Jar with Lavender

  • Place your lavender buds into the glass jar, filling it about halfway. This ensures a good amount of flowers for a potent oil.

4. Add the Carrier Oil

  • Pour your chosen carrier oil over the lavender, making sure the flowers are completely submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar. Stir gently to mix.

5. Seal and Store

  • Close the jar tightly and place it in a warm, sunny spot, such as a windowsill. Let it infuse for about 2 to 3 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to help the infusion process.

6. Strain the Oil

  • After 2-3 weeks, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the lavender buds. You can compost the used flowers or save them for other DIY projects.

7. Store Your Lavender Oil

  • Transfer the strained oil into a dark glass bottle for storage. This helps preserve the oil’s potency. Store it in a cool, dark place. It should last for about 6 months.

7 Useful Ways to Utilize Lavender and Her Healing Benefits

1. Natural Sleep Aid & Stress Relief (Medicinal)

Lavender oil has been shown to promote relaxation and better sleep. The best and most effective ways to use would be to diffuse it with water in an electrical diffuser, create your own pillow mist or room spray, or use diluted application of your pulse points.

2. Headache & Tension Relief (Medicinal)

Lavender has a natural ability to ease headaches and migraines. Try applying a few diluted drops to your temple or drip a few drops onto a lava stone bracelet.

3. Skin Soothing & Healing (Beauty & Medicinal)

Lavender’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a perfect natural healing option for burns and some common skin conditions like eczema and acne.

4. DIY Natural Perfume (Beauty)

Lavender’s gentle floral scent is a perfect natural swap for a chemical-free fragrance. If you are feeling extra, adventurous, branch out and add in other complimentary scents like rosemary or lemon for a more personalized perfume.

5. Relaxing Bath Soak (Beauty & Medicinal)

Buy now, if you’ve made it this far, and I hope you have, first off thank you, secondly, we all are aware of the awesomeness of lavender for its helpful ability to aid in our natural approach to stress relief and act as a relaxation liaison for our own mental wellness. DIY lavender bath salts are so easy to make. If you aren’t into DIY, Amazon sells Dr Teal’s Epsom Salt bath soak which I have used and it works wonders on achy joints.

6. Culinary Delight: Infused Honey & Tea (Culinary)

Add for my Epicurious readers out there, in the culinary world, the floral notes of lavender add a distinct flavor to teas, honey, and other delicious desserts. A few different ways to utilize lavender in the culinary sense are through infusing locally sourced honey with lavender’s floral notes, or enjoying a cup of freshly brewed lavender tea. One of my fav desserts in the world is macarons, while pistachio is my number one favorite, a fresh lavender macaroon is no slouchy second.

7. Non-Toxic Home Freshener (Holistic Living)

And as far as it comes to my home, using lavender essential oil (NOTE: There is a difference between lavender oil and lavender essential oil.) I like to add a few drops to a mist bottle, along with distilled water, and witch hazel or rubbing alcohol for a natural room and linen spray. If you are feeling extra romantic, tie a few lavender sachets to put in your drawers for a fresh and floral scent.

A Wealth of Benefits

Incorporating lavender oil into your everyday routine offers a wealth of benefits that can enhance your holistic lifestyle. From promoting relaxation and restful sleep to soothing your skin and uplifting your mood, lavender’s versatility is unmatched. Whether you use it in aromatherapy, skincare, or even in the kitchen, this natural wonder is sure to become a staple in your wellness toolkit.

I encourage you to experiment with different ways to bring lavender into your life and discover which methods work best for you. Let its calming, rejuvenating qualities enrich your daily rituals. I’d love to hear how you incorporate lavender oil into your own routine—share your tips and experiences in the comments below! 🌿

How to Make Your Own Calendula Oil + 7 Healing Ways to Use It

For thousands of years, Calendula, known as pot marigold, has been used for its culinary and medicinal uses due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. From brewed teas and tinctures to skin care, Calendula is a powerhouse when it comes to Mother Nature’s healing power.

What is Calendula Oil?

Calendula oil, which is oil extracted from flowers from the Calendula officinalis plant, is a popular ingredient in ointments, creams, and salves for its soothing properties. The flower contains flavonoids and triterpenoids that provide strong anti-inflammatory effects.

Calendula is rich in antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids, which protect the skin and body from oxidative stress. That makes it the perfect plant ally for epidermal ailments such as wound healing or minor skin issues, such as psoriasis and eczema.

How to Make Your Own Calendula Oil

  • Ingredients:
  • Fresh or dried calendula petals
  • Carrier oil (olive, sweet almond, jojoba, or sunflower oil)
  • Glass jar
  • Cheesecloth or strainer
  • Step-by-Step Process:
  1. Harvest or purchase fresh or dried calendula petals. (Dried herbs are preferred for preventing mold contamination due to excesses water from the fresh leaves.)
  2. Fill a glass jar with petals and cover them completely with your carrier oil of choice.
  3. Seal the jar and let it sit in a warm, sunny spot for 4–6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
  4. Strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine strainer into a clean jar.
  5. Store the oil in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

7 Healing Ways to Use Calendula Oil

1. As a Soothing Skin Balm – Apply directly to dry or irritated skin, especially for eczema or psoriasis.

2. For Healing Minor Cuts and Scrapes – Use as a natural first-aid remedy to speed up healing and prevent infection.

3. To Soothe Sunburn or Minor Burns – Apply to burned skin for its anti-inflammatory and cooling effects.

4. In a Relaxing Massage Oil – Mix with essential oils like lavender or chamomile for a calming massage experience.

5. As a Baby-Safe Diaper Rash Treatment – Gentle enough for babies, calendula oil can help heal diaper rash naturally.

6. In a Hydrating Face Serum – Add a few drops to your daily skincare routine for extra moisture and protection against acne.

7. For Scalp Health and Hair Care – Massage into the scalp to reduce dandruff or add shine to dry, brittle hair.

Tips for Storing and Preserving Calendula Oil

Storing Calendula oil properly helps preserve its quality, potency, and shelf life. Here are some tips:

Use a Dark Glass Bottle: Store the calendula oil in a dark amber or cobalt blue glass bottle to protect it from sunlight, which can degrade its therapeutic properties.

Keep Away from Heat: Store the oil in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat sources like radiators, ovens, or hot windowsills. Excessive heat can cause the oil to go rancid faster.

Avoid Exposure to Air: Make sure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air, which can lead to oxidation and spoilage.

Label the Bottle: Mark the bottle with the date it was made or purchased, and include the expiration date (usually about 1 year from the time it’s made).

Refrigeration: If possible, store the oil in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps extend its shelf life and keeps it fresh longer. Be aware that the oil may thicken in colder temperatures but will return to liquid form at room temperature.

Add a Natural Preservative: Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil can help extend the shelf life of calendula oil, as vitamin E acts as a natural preservative and antioxidant.

Check for Spoilage: Over time, oils can develop a rancid smell or change in texture. If you notice any off odors, cloudiness, or separation, it’s best to discard the oil.

Small Batches: If making your own calendula oil, create smaller batches to ensure you use it while it’s fresh.

I hope you have learned a few ways to start incorporating the powerful and versatile uses of Calendula oil into your everyday health routines. From its remarkable ability to heal and soothe skin irritations, wounds, and burns to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, this golden-hued oil is a must-have in any holistic health toolkit.

I’d love to hear your favorite way to use Calendula oil down below.

Happy growing, my friends!

Holistic Beauty and Self-Care: April Tips

Welcome to Hummingbirds & Lavender, where we embark on a holistic journey toward radiant well-being together. If you’re seeking ways to nurture your body, mind, and spirit, you’re in the right place.

Tulip magnolia tree blooming with pink flowers.

As we embrace the blossoming of spring, let’s delve into April’s holistic beauty and self-care tips to cultivate inner and outer radiance.

Ways to practice holistic beauty and self-care this Spring.

Here where I live, the winters aren’t so bad compared to some places in the united states. Our winters are pretty mild, but for those of y’all who are in different climates, you might not be as lucky. (kidding…kind of)

I wanted to share a few tips to get us back to feeling our best. So here are a few suggestions to hopefully inspire your next Spring revamp.

Harness the Power of Nature

April showers bring May flowers, and they also bring an abundance of natural ingredients to revitalize your beauty routine. Explore the wonders of botanical extracts like rosehip oil, chamomile, and lavender. These natural treasures offer gentle nourishment for your skin, leaving it soft, supple, and glowing with vitality.

Mindful Skincare Rituals

Treat your skincare routine as a sacred ritual, honoring yourself with each application. Start by cleansing away the day’s impurities with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser. Follow up with a hydrating toner to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for nourishment. Then, indulge in a luxurious facial massage using a nutrient-rich serum or facial oil to promote circulation and radiance.

Nourish From Within

Remember, true beauty radiates from the inside out. Fuel your body with nutrient-dense foods that support healthy skin, such as leafy greens, antioxidant-rich berries, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish or flaxseeds. Hydrate your body with plenty of water and herbal teas to maintain a youthful, dewy complexion.

Holistic Hair Care

Show your locks some love with a holistic approach to hair care. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners infused with botanical extracts to nourish and strengthen your hair from root to tip. Treat yourself to a weekly hair mask using natural ingredients like coconut oil, honey, or avocado for luscious, vibrant strands.

Sensory Self-Care

Engage your senses in a blissful self-care experience. Set the mood with calming essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus in a diffuser to create a tranquil atmosphere. Treat yourself to a soothing bath infused with mineral-rich Epsom salts and aromatic bath oils to melt away tension and promote relaxation.

Embrace Minimalism

Simplify your beauty routine and embrace the beauty of minimalism. Focus on quality over quantity, choosing products with clean, non-toxic ingredients that align with your values and support your skin’s natural balance. Streamline your routine to include only the essentials, allowing you to savor each moment of self-care without feeling overwhelmed.

Connect with Nature

Take advantage of the beauty of springtime by spending time outdoors. Bask in the warmth of the sun’s rays, feel the earth beneath your feet, and breathe in the fresh, rejuvenating air. Nature has a profound ability to uplift your spirits and replenish your energy, providing the perfect backdrop for holistic rejuvenation.

Practice Gratitude

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude as you embrace your holistic beauty and self-care journey. Take a moment each day to reflect on the blessings in your life, expressing appreciation for the beauty that surrounds you and the abundance that nourishes you from within

Small jar of beeswax lip balm and apothecary bottle of herbal infused body oil surrounded by fresh flower and herbs.

Sprout Your Curiosity: FAQs on Holistic Spring Beauty & Self-Care!

  1. How can I incorporate spring botanicals into my skincare routine for a holistic approach to beauty?
  • Answer: Embrace the rejuvenating power of spring flowers like lavender, rose, and calendula by incorporating them into homemade skincare potions and floral-infused baths. These botanicals offer nourishment for both the skin and the spirit, promoting holistic well-being.
  1. What are some eco-friendly alternatives for spring cleaning that align with holistic living principles?
  • Answer: Explore eco-conscious cleaning options infused with botanical-based cleaners and essential oils. These natural alternatives not only cleanse your home effectively but also honor the planet, reducing your ecological footprint and promoting a harmonious connection with the environment.
  1. How can I engage in mindful self-care practices during the spring season to align with holistic living?
  • Answer: Immerse yourself in outdoor wellness rituals that celebrate the beauty of spring, such as practicing yoga amidst blooming flowers, meditating beneath budding trees, or embarking on mindful nature walks. These activities allow you to connect with the natural world, rejuvenate your senses, and foster holistic well-being.

As we navigate the joys of April and the renewal it brings, remember to prioritize self-care and embrace the holistic beauty that lies within and all around you. Together, let’s nurture our minds, bodies, and spirits as we blossom into our most radiant selves.

Stay connected with Hummingbirds & Lavender for more holistic inspiration, and join our community of like-minded souls dedicated to personal growth and well-being. Until next time, radiate love, light, and inner beauty.