Infused oils are carrier oils that have been infused with herbs.  The herb is steeped in the oil and exposed to a warm environment for a specific time period.  In this process, the beneficial constituents of the herbs are mixed with the oil and are absorbed by it.  The infused oil then carries not only the therapeutic benefits of the carrier oil but of the herb that was infused into it as well.

So how is it different or similar to an essential oil?  Depending on the carrier oil used, infused oils can be oily but they are not as concentrated as essential oils.  Essential oils are highly potent and have to be diluted in a carrier oil.  On the other hand, infused oils are an alternative to carrier oils.  Essential oils do not turn rancid but infused oils do, just like carrier oils.

Some plant varieties do not produce much essential oil or are too scarce.  In cases like these, infusing the herb into a carrier oil is one way to still use the herbs for aromatherapy purposes.

How to Make Infused Oil

Making your own infused oil is quite simple and it can be fun.  You can also try a few combinations and make any variations.  One way is by using a crock pot in low heat.  You can also place it in a glass container and let it sit in a sunny spot for about 3 weeks.

Make sure that the herbs are dry for even just a tiny amount of water can spoil the oil.  Add 1 cup of fresh herb or ½ dried herbs in 2 cups of your chosen carrier oil.  Allow the mixture to heat on the lowest setting for two hours.  Not more than 100 degrees is the recommended setting.  Stir every 10-15 minutes.  After two hours, filter the oil using a cheesecloth or unbleached muslin.  Pour the infused oil into a clean jar with a tight lid.  Be careful not to let any herbs remain in the infused oil because they can make oil rancid.

Choose your herbs carefully.  It is always wise to research about herbs you choose to use and the safety precautions appropriate for each plant.

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