Herbal Preparation with Oil
1. Cold Oil Infusion
When an oil poured over the aerial parts of the herb (leaves, flowers, petals) to extract fat soluble compounds.
Instructions
Fill a jar with 1 cup of herb and pour 1 1/2 cup of olive oil over top enough to cover the herb plus one inch.
Let the mixture sit in a warm dark place for 4-6 weeks.
Shake the bottle several times a day.
Filter the oil through a fine muslin cloth in a clean jug.
Squeeze as much oil as possible out of the herb
If there is any sediment in the oil let it stand for 1-2 days until the sediment settles at the bottom.
Pour the oil in a dark glass jar.
Label the jar.
Store in a cool dark place for up to 6 months but discard at the first sign of rancidity.
Advantages
Can be used internally and externally
Disadvantage
Requires a long time
Requires additional preparation for topical use
2. Salve
Ingredients
1 cup herb infused oil
1 oz beeswax
12-14 drops essential oil (optional)
Instructions
Heat the infused herbal oil in a double boiler. You can use a metal bowl or glass pyrex measuring cup over a pot of water if need be.
Add the beeswax and stir until it completely dissolves.
Remove from heat and stir in the essential oils.
Carefully pour the mixture into jars or tins and set aside until the salve solidifies.
3. Hot Oil Infusion
A hot oil infusion is when a herb in heated in oil. These herbs have heating properties such as cayenne or ginger.
Instructions
For dried herbs use 1 part herb to 3 parts oil
For fresh herbs use 1 part herb to 1.5 parts oil
Chop or grind the herbs and add to a saucepan or glass bowl
Add the oil
Place the saucepan or glass bowl in a frying pan half filled with water or use a double boiler.
Simmer over very low heat for 2-3 hours
Do not allow oil to bowl
Allow to cool before straining through a fine muslin cloth.
Squeeze as much oil as possible out of the herb.
Pour the oil in a dark glass bottle
Seal, label and add the date you prepared the oil
Can be used topically or added to an ointment or cream
Do not use on inflamed or sensitive skin
Store in a cool dark place for up to 6 months but discard at the first sign of rancidity.