Herbal Infused Oil
You can buy infused oils for making salves, balms, ointments, and more—but there is something special about creating them yourself. It’s more affordable, too. Store-bought infused oils can cost three times as much as making your own with plain oil and herbs, and you save even more if you harvest the plants yourself.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
You can use dried herbs to make an infused oil, and this is often the easiest method for beginners. The one plant that truly benefits from being used fresh is St. John’s Wort, because its main constituent—hypericin—is diminished during drying. High-quality St. John’s Wort oil will be a deep red color due to its hypericin content. If harvesting it yourself, crush a flower bud between your fingers; if it stains red, it’s ready.
Infused oils are similar to tinctures in method, but with one key difference: oils can go rancid. Moisture is the number-one cause of rancidity, so extra care is needed when working with fresh plants.
Important:
When using fresh plant matter, do not use an airtight lid while infusing. Moisture needs a way to escape. Cover the jar with muslin, a clean rag, or cheesecloth secured with a rubber band to allow airflow while keeping debris and insects out.
Making an Infused Oil
There are many methods, but here are the two most common: the slow method and the quick method. The slow method is my favorite, but the quick method definitely has its place.
Infused oils can be used in:
-food (if the herb is safe and edible),
-bath and body oils,
-salves, balms, and ointments,
-and general topical skincare.
Choosing an oil:
-Olive oil is wonderful, especially for edible preparations, though the scent may be strong for body products.
-Avocado oil absorbs well into the skin and leaves less residue.
-Other oils can be used depending on preference and purpose.
Avoid mineral oil. It is petroleum-based and not ideal for herbal preparations or topical remedies. If you wouldn’t want to eat it, it may not be something you want on your skin either. Our skin is a major organ of absorption and elimination, so ingredients matter.
If moisture concerns you, you can fresh-wilt plants first: spread them in a single layer out of direct sunlight for several hours until limp. For dried herbs, choose high-quality material dried slowly without heat—fast, hot drying can damage important plant compounds.
Slow Method (Solar Infusion)
-Chop herbs and place them in a wide-mouthed glass jar.
-Cover with 1–2 inches of oil. Use a chopstick to release trapped air bubbles and top off if needed.
-If using fresh herbs, cover with a breathable cloth. If using dried, a normal lid is fine.
-Place the jar in a sunny window or warm spot for 2–6 weeks. In winter, 6–8 weeks may be helpful, but beyond that, you’re not extracting more.
-Shake or stir every few days. Add prayer, intention, energy—whatever feels right to you.
-Strain, bottle, and label. You can repeat with fresh herbs for a stronger oil.
Note: According to Rosemary Gladstar, oils rarely go rancid during infusion as long as moisture escapes. Once strained, they become more prone to rancidity over time, possibly because the plant’s antioxidants are no longer present. Either way, keep an eye on them.
Quick Method (Double Boiler)
You’ll need a double boiler and a thermometer to prevent overheating.
-Chop herbs and place them in the top of a double boiler.
-Cover with oil by 1–2 inches.
-Warm gently to 95–110°F. Only a few small bubbles should appear—never a boil.
-Infuse for 30–60 minutes, adjusting temperature as needed. Lower heat and longer time produce better oil.
-The oil is ready when it looks and smells like the herb and takes on color (green, golden, or red for St. John’s Wort).
-Strain through cheesecloth, allow to cool, then bottle and label once clean.
Many infused oils can be used both topically and in food preparations like dressings or drizzle oils, if the herb is edible. Always know your plants, as some herbs are for external use only.
A Note of Caution
This post is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. I am not certified to diagnose, prescribe, or treat. Always research herbs thoroughly and consult reliable sources before trying a new preparation.