Coaxing a plant's qualities into a carrier oil, gently and slowly.
Any moisture will cause your oil to go rancid. Use dried herb, or wilt fresh herb on a rack for 24 hours before starting.
Olive oil is traditional and nourishing. Fractionated coconut or jojoba absorbs quickly and stays stable longer.
Place herb and oil in a double boiler on the very lowest heat — never a simmer — for 4–8 hours.
Cap a jar of herb and oil, set it in a sunny windowsill for 2–4 weeks, shaking every few days. Great for delicate flowers.
Strain out the herb through cheesecloth and store the oil in a clean, dark bottle away from heat.
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These are general preparation techniques — not treatment for any condition. Always consult a doctor before acting on anything you read here.