Making Avocado Oil at Home from Overripe or Damaged Avocados
You can easily extract the rich, buttery oil from damaged, bruised, or overripe avocados at home, so don’t throw them away. Store-bought avocado oil is pricey, but you can produce your own pure, chemical-free, nutrient-rich avocado oil using things you already have with a few easy steps.
Avocado oil prepared at home has the same benefits for cooking, hair nourishing, and skincare as store-bought oil, but without the expense. Even if the avocados are too soft or unappealing to eat, this procedure works flawlessly. They can be turned into premium oil as long as they are not rotten or moldy.
Equipment You Need:
Sharp knife
Spoon
Bowl
Blender / food processor
Non-stick pan or pot
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Clean glass jar or bottle (for storing)
Spatula
Stove
How to Extract Oil from Damaged Avocados at Home:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Avocados
Wash avocados thoroughly.
Cut them in half and remove the seeds.
Scoop out the flesh into a bowl.
Discard any parts that are moldy or black with smell — dark bruised spots are okay.
Step 2: Blend the Avocado Flesh
Add avocado flesh into a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Add ¼ cup water if needed to help blending.
Step 3: Cook the Avocado Paste (Oil Separation Process)
Heat a non-stick pan on low to medium heat.
Add the avocado paste.
Cook gently, stirring often.
The paste will start turning dark green → brownish and begin to release oil.
Continue cooking until you see oil separating from the paste (usually 20–30 minutes).
Do not burn it — slow heating gives better oil.
Step 4: Cool and Strain the Oil
Let the cooked avocado paste cool slightly.
Place a cheesecloth or fine strainer over a bowl.
Pour the paste into the cloth and squeeze firmly.
The pure avocado oil will drip out.
Keep squeezing until all the oil is extracted.
Step 5: Store the Oil
Transfer the oil into a clean glass bottle.
Store at room temperature or refrigerate.
Stays fresh for 1–2 months.
Health Benefits of Avocado Oil:
1. Rich in Healthy Fats (Oleic Acid)
Supports heart health, reduces bad cholesterol, and boosts energy.
2. Excellent for Skin Hydration
Deeply moisturizes dry skin, reduces dullness, and adds glow.
3. Promotes Hair Growth & Shine
Strengthens hair, reduces breakage, and nourishes scalp.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Helps with joint stiffness and may support better mobility.
5. Antioxidant Boost
Vitamin E protects skin from aging, sun damage, and dryness.
6. Good for Digestion
Supports nutrient absorption and gut health.
How to Use Avocado Oil:
For Skin
Apply a few drops as a daily moisturizer.
Mix with sugar or oatmeal as a natural scrub.
Use on cracked heels, elbows, and dry patches.
For Hair
Massage warm oil into scalp to promote growth.
Use as an overnight treatment for silky, soft hair.
Add 1 tsp to conditioner for shine.
For Cooking
Use for sautéing or frying (high smoke point).
Add to salads, dips, and marinades.
Drizzle over roasted vegetables.
How It Works (The Science Behind It)
Avocados contain 20–30% oil in their flesh.
When blended and heated gently, the water evaporates and oil separates.
Heat breaks down cell walls, releasing the oil naturally.
Straining removes fibers, leaving only pure oil.
Best Time to Use Avocado Oil:
For Skin
Nighttime is best — oil absorbs deeply while you sleep.
For Hair
Apply 1–2 hours before washing, or use overnight.
For Cooking
Use anytime, especially for high-heat recipes due to its strong heat stability.
Storage Tips for Homemade Avocado Oil:
1. Use a Dark Glass Bottle (Preferred)
Store your avocado oil in a dark amber or green glass bottle.
Light breaks down nutrients and causes oil to go rancid faster.
Dark glass protects the oil from oxidation.
2. Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Keep the bottle in a cupboard, pantry, or drawer—away from sunlight.
Avoid warm spots like near the stove or windows.
Heat causes the oil to spoil quickly.
3. Refrigeration Extends Shelf Life
Homemade avocado oil contains no preservatives.
Refrigerating can extend freshness up to 2–3 months.
Oil may thicken in the fridge — this is normal.
Just let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before using.
4. Keep the Bottle Tightly Sealed
Air exposure leads to oxidation.
Always close the bottle immediately after use.
Use bottles with airtight lids for best results.
5. Avoid Using Plastic Containers
Plastic can leach chemicals into the oil over time.
Glass is safer, more durable, and keeps flavor pure.
6. Use Clean, Dry Tools Each Time
Never dip wet or dirty fingers/utensils into the oil.
Moisture introduces bacteria and causes spoilage.
7. Make Small Batches for Best Freshness
Since homemade oil lacks preservatives, it’s better to make
small batches every 2–3 weeks to ensure maximum potency.
8. Check for Signs of Spoilage
Discard the oil if you notice:
Sour or strange smell
Cloudy appearance (not from cold)
Mold in the bottle
Bitter or “off” taste
9. Add Natural Preservatives (Optional)
To extend shelf life naturally:
Add 1 capsule of Vitamin E oil (works as an antioxidant).
Add a few drops of rosemary essential oil (natural preservative).
10. Keep Away From Water and Steam
Don’t store near the stove or sink.
Water droplets inside the bottle cause rancidity.
Concluding Remarks:
One of the best methods to decrease waste, save money, and enjoy a potent natural product at home is to turn overripe or damaged avocados into oil. Pure, chemical-free, and highly adaptable, this DIY oil can be used for everything from cooking to cosmetics. Your “useless” avocados may be transformed into liquid gold for your skin, hair, and general well-being with a few easy steps.