Oil infusion- The what what and the how-to...
Making an herbal infused oil really is as simple as steeping quality herbs in a quality career oil. Time and warmth are needed to allow the medicinal properties, flavor, and scents of the herb to be infused. The carrier oil can then be used in a large variety of ways... body oil, lotion, salve, soap, culinary, aromatherapy, etc... The list is actually endless :)
Fresh herbs contain water which can potentially cause mold, bacteria, and rancidity. Using dried herbs can prevent this problem. I prefer dried over fresh for all those reasons and for stability and longer shelf life. If you must use fresh herbs, allow them to sit spread out in a dry, airy location for at least a day or 2 to allow some of the water to evaporate.
Your herb-infused oil will only be as good as the herbs and the oil you use, so choose high-quality ingredients and more stable oils.
Double Boiler Method
When infusing oil with herbs, it’s important to keep any heat used very low (around 100°F is ideal) so that neither the herb nor the oil is destroyed. A double-boiler does a great job to protect these precious ingredients. A mason jar placed in a pan of water with a few canning jar rings in the bottom to protect the oil from direct heat contact can be used in a pinch. Place your herbs in the top of a double-boiler, or in a mason jar. Completely cover the herbs with your carrier oil. Place water in the bottom of the double-boiler and keep warm at very low heat for at least 60 minutes. Remember, low heat and long infusion time means great oil!
Strain the herbs which may then be composted. Bottle your oil and be sure to label and date your jar.
Solar Method
To use the heat of the sun to infuse your oil, simply place your herbs in a mason jar and cover with a carrier oil, leaving about an inch of headroom. Cover the jar. Now simply place your jar in a warm, sunny location for 2 – 6 weeks. Strain, label, date and enjoy...!
All of our products at Qsoulcare start with a variety of different infused oils.