In the sweltering days of summer, when kids are restless and we’re all thinking ahead to fall, it’s a great opportunity to make herbal oils for those winter remedies. Herbal oils are all about preserving the healing qualities of herbs and plants by soaking them in oils. This way, you extend their shelf life and create a concentrated natural remedy. These oils work well on their own or as a base for products like salves, lotions, and lip balms.
Among the various ways to make herbal oils, solar infusion stands out as my favorite, especially during these hot summer days. This method is like making a tincture, but with oil instead of alcohol as the base. The sun’s warmth speeds up the process, and some evidence suggests that the sun’s energy helps extract additional beneficial components from the plants.
While herbal oils aren’t as strong as essential oils, they share many benefits and are safer for use on children. Personally, I often opt for herb-infused oils over essential oils and save the latter for when they’re really necessary. Plus, herbal infused oils are usually much cheaper than essential oils.
The main ingredient you need for solar-infused herbal oils is patience, as they take at least two weeks to reach full potency. However, the results are definitely worth the wait, with the oils absorbing many beneficial properties from the herbs. I prepare batches of our favorite oils in July or August so they’re ready just in time for cold and flu season.
Each year, I make pint or quart-sized batches of these oils. Our most commonly used oil is an all-purpose blend made with herbs that soothe, fight bacteria, and help the body heal faster. I use this oil for cuts, bruises, scars, bites, and other minor issues. If you’re only going to make one solar oil, this combination is highly recommended as it incorporates the best properties of all the oils listed.
Previously, I included comfrey leaf in this oil, although it’s somewhat controversial. I’ve since replaced it with lavender, making it safer for children and pregnant women concerned about comfrey. Lavender is excellent for skin healing and gives the oil a lovely scent.
If you’re short on time and can’t wait 2-4 weeks, there are quicker methods to infuse the oils. While you won’t benefit from the sun’s energy, these methods will still extract many of the beneficial properties from the herbs.
One alternative is to place the herbs and oils in a jar, set a towel at the bottom of a slow cooker, and add a few inches of water. Pint jars are ideal so you can close the slow cooker’s lid. Turn it on warm and let it infuse for up to 24 hours, checking the temperature periodically to keep it below 130 degrees. The longer and slower the infusion, the stronger the oil.
For the quickest infusion, use a stainless steel double boiler with 2 inches of water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the top pan. Add herbs and oils to the top pan, cover, and heat on medium until the water simmers, then reduce to low. Let it simmer for 3-4 hours, checking the water level and temperature. When the oil darkens and takes on the herbs’ scent, remove it from heat and strain out the herbs.
These infused herbal oils can be used on their own or in various natural remedy recipes. What are your favorite herbs to use?
