Infusing Carrier Oils with Herbs

Calendula, Rose and Dandelion flower oils

Introduction

Herbal oil infusions are a popular way to extract the beneficial properties of herbs into carrier oils for use in skincare, massage, aromatherapy, and other applications. Infusing a carrier oil with herbs can be done using several methods, each suited to different needs, timeframes, and desired outcomes. Below, you'll find a thorough explanation of the methods for 2 methods I use for herbal oil infusion.

1. Cold (Solar) Infusion Method

This traditional method uses ambient heat and time to infuse herbs into oil, preserving delicate compounds and minimizing degradation.

1. Prepare the Herbs: Use dried herbs to avoid introducing moisture, which can cause mold. Crush or chop the herbs to expose more surface area.

2. Choose Your Carrier Oil: Common choices include olive oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or grapeseed oil.

3. Combine Herbs and Oil: Fill a clean, dry glass jar about halfway with herbs. Pour oil over the herbs until they are fully submerged, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

4. Infuse: Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm, sunny spot for 2–6 weeks. Shake gently every day to agitate the mixture.

5. Strain: After the infusion period, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean container. Squeeze out as much oil as possible from the herbs.

6. Store: Keep the infused oil in a sealed, dark glass bottle, away from heat and light.

2. Warm Infusion Using a Slow Cooker

This method uses gentle heat to speed up the infusion process, ideal for those needing a faster result or working with tougher herbs.

1. Prepare the Herbs and Oil: As above, use dried herbs and your choice of carrier oil.

2. Place a towel in the bottom of your Slow Cooker: Place the jar filled with your herbs and oil of choice in a slow cooker with the lid on loosely. Fill the slow cooker up with water until it is halfway up the side of your jar.

3. Turn the slow cooker on LOW. Then remove the lid from the jar so condensation does not build up and leave the lid off of the slow cooker. Moisture is not your friend when infusing oils.

4. Make sure the temperature stays below 120°F (49°C) to prevent degradation.

5. Heat and Steep: Allow the mixture to gently heat for a minimum of 4 hours up to 24 hours (I like leaving mine 24 hours and using the warm setting on my slow cooker), stirring occasionally. You want to check the water level, so it does not become too low being careful not to splash water into you jar.

6. Strain and Store: After infusing remove the jar from the slow cooker and wipe any water from the outside of the jar.  Use a cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to separate the herbs from the oil. Store as described above.

Tips for Success

• Always use dried herbs to prevent contamination and spoilage.

• Label your jars with the date and type of herbs used.

• Store infused oils in a cool, dark place to extend shelf life.

• Perform a patch test before using the oil on your skin.

Conclusion

Infusing carrier oils with herbs is a rewarding process, offering custom blends for health and wellness. Choose the method that best fits your timeline and needs, and enjoy the benefits of herbal-infused oils in your daily routine.