How to Infuse Dried Herbs into Carrier Oils
Natural Skincare From the Garden to the Bottle
Infusing dried herbs into carrier oils is a beautiful way to harness the benefits of nature and create powerful, nourishing oils for your skin, hair, or DIY projects. Whether you're making a soothing calendula balm, rosemary hair oil, or a luxurious lavender body oil—this process is simple, cost-effective, and incredibly rewarding.
What is an Herbal Oil Infusion?
An herbal oil infusion is made by steeping dried herbs in a carrier oil over time, allowing the plant’s beneficial compounds—like antioxidants, vitamins, and essential oils—to be slowly extracted into the oil. The result? A naturally scented, therapeutic oil you can use as-is or blend into balms, salves, butters, lotions, and soaps.
What You’ll Need:
- Dried herbs of your choice (Calendula, Chamomile, Lavender, Rosemary, Mint)
- Carrier oil (Sweet Almond, Jojoba, Olive, Sunflower, Fractionated Coconut)
- Clean, dry glass jar with lid
- Cheesecloth or muslin for straining
- Dark glass bottle for storage
Choosing Your Herbs & Oils
Herbs
| Herb | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Calendula | Soothes sensitive skin and reduces inflammation |
| Lavender | Calming, antiseptic, and great for relaxation |
| Chamomile | Anti-inflammatory and ideal for dry, itchy skin |
| Rosemary | Stimulates scalp and promotes hair growth |
| Mint | Cooling, refreshing, and antibacterial |
Carrier Oils
| Oil | Skin Type/Use |
|---|---|
| Jojoba Oil | Balances oil production; great for all skin types |
| Sweet Almond Oil | Softening and nourishing for dry, sensitive skin |
| Olive Oil | Rich and protective; ideal for body oils |
| Sunflower Oil | Lightweight and vitamin-rich |
| Fractionated Coconut | Non-greasy and long-lasting |
Two Easy Infusion Methods
1. The Solar (Slow) Method
- Fill a clean jar about ¾ full with dried herbs.
- Cover with carrier oil, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Seal and place in a sunny window or warm area for 2–6 weeks.
- Shake the jar gently every day to keep things moving.
- After 2–6 weeks, strain using cheesecloth into a clean bottle. Store in a cool, dark place.
2. The Heat (Quick) Method
- Place herbs and oil in a double boiler or heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water.
- Warm on low heat (don’t exceed 50°C / 120°F) for 2–3 hours.
- Stir occasionally and monitor to prevent overheating.
- Strain, bottle, and label once cooled.
Tips for Success
- Always use dried herbs: Fresh herbs contain water, which can cause mold or spoilage.
- Label your infusion with the herb name and date.
- Store in dark bottles to preserve the oil’s potency.
- Patch test before applying to skin, especially if using strong herbs.
How to Use Your Infused Oil
- Apply directly as a body or facial oil
- Use as a hair oil or scalp treatment
- Add to DIY soaps, balms, salves, or lotions
- Blend with essential oils for extra benefits
Infusing oils with herbs is more than just a DIY project—it’s a return to nature and a celebration of slow, intentional self-care. Whether you’re crafting a product for your store or making a gift from the heart, herb-infused oils are a nourishing way to honour what nature has to offer.
