Eau de Cologne
A classic homemade cologne water featuring citrus and herbal essential oils infused in high-proof alcohol. This traditional fragrance blend creates a refreshing, aromatic scent.
Ingredients
- 12 drops Oil of neroli (orange blossom essential oil) (Essential oil from orange blossoms)
- 12 drops Oil of citron (citron essential oil) (Can substitute lemon essential oil)
- 12 drops Oil of bergamot (bergamot essential oil) (Classic cologne ingredient)
- 12 drops Oil of orange (sweet orange essential oil) (Sweet orange essential oil)
- 12 drops Oil of rosemary (rosemary essential oil) (Adds herbal note)
- 1 drachm (approximately 1/8 ounce or 3.5 grams) Cardamom seeds, whole (Adds spicy warmth to the blend)
- 2 cups (1 pint) High-proof alcohol (vodka or grain alcohol, 90-95% proof) (Use unflavored, high-proof alcohol as a base)
Instructions
- 1Select a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting cork or cap that can hold at least 2 cups of liquid. Ensure it is completely dry.
- 2Carefully measure and add 12 drops each of oil of neroli, citron, bergamot, orange, and rosemary into the bottle. Count drops carefully for accurate proportions.
- 3Add 1 drachm (approximately 3.5 grams or 1/8 ounce) of whole cardamom seeds to the bottle with the essential oils.
- 4Pour 2 cups (1 pint) of high-proof spirits of wine (vodka or grain alcohol) into the bottle over the oils and cardamom seeds.
- 5Cork or cap the bottle tightly and shake gently to combine all ingredients. Ensure the seal is secure to prevent evaporation.
- 6Store the sealed bottle in a cool, dark place for one week to allow the oils and cardamom to infuse into the alcohol. Shake gently once daily to help blend the ingredients.
- 7After one week, strain the cologne through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the cardamom seeds. Transfer to a clean spray bottle or decorative cologne bottle for use.
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