Creating herb-infused oil is a simple and rewarding way to incorporate the benefits of herbs into your natural skincare products. This quick tutorial will guide you through the process step by step!
What You’ll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup carrier oil (e.g. olive oil, sweet almond oil or jojoba oil)
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup dried herbs (e.g. comfrey, calendula, chamomile or rosemary)
DIY Comfrey Infused Oil and Herbal Salve Kit
Equipment:
- Clean, dry glass jar (like a mason jar)
- Double boiler or a small pot and a heat-safe bowl
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer
- Funnel (optional)
- Dark glass bottle for storage
Instructions:
Choose Your Herbs:
Select dried herbs that suit your skincare needs.
For example:
Lavender: Soothing and calming.
Calendula: Great for healing and inflammatory issues.
Chamomile: Gentle and soothing, ideal for children or sensitive skin.
Comfrey: Perfect for scratches, scrapes and minor cuts.
Prepare the Oil:
Fill your glass jar with the herbs and then, cover with the carrier oil of your choice. Ensure the herbs are completely submerged in the oil to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Cold Infusion Method:
Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny spot (like a windowsill) for 4-6 weeks. Shake it gently every few days to help keep the herbs saturated.
Strain the Oil:
After the infusion period, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine strainer into a clean bowl. Make sure to squeeze out as much oil as possible from the herbs.
Store the Infused Oil:
Use a funnel to transfer the strained oil into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light. Label the bottle with the contents and date.
Use Your Infused Oil:
Incorporate your herb-infused oil into homemade skincare products like lotions, salves or simply use it as a massage oil directly on the skin for all of its nourishing benefits.
Tips:
- Store your infused oil in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life.
- Always perform a patch test when using new oils on your skin.