Body & Soul: How to Make an Infusion

April/May 2003
By Shatoiya de la Tour  
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The first step in preparing most herbal skin preparations is making an infused oil. This carrier oil is imbued with the properties of the herb or herbal blend you are working with. You can choose from a variety of methods to infuse oils depending on your preferences. If you wish to use fresh herbs you will have a few extra steps.

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The oil you begin with is called a fixed oil. Generally I prefer to use olive oil as my fixed oil for most of my preparations. Olive oil has its own special health-giving properties and comes from a tree that has been prized and honored for centuries. If you choose to use olive oil, make sure you use one labeled “extra virgin” to assure the highest quality. A label that indicates “cold pressed” is a bonus. For cosmetic purposes some people find olive oil a bit heavy, and it does have an aroma of its own. You might also consider using lighter oils such as apricot, almond or grapeseed oil, or a combination of oils.

Adapted with permission from Earth Mother Herbal (Fair Winds, 2002) by Shatoiya de la Tour.

Click here to read more from Body & Soul: Infused Oils and Salves.
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  • Terry Christensen 1/14/2009 4:56:28 PM

    Oops! I didn't mean to add the same comment twice.

  • Terry Christensen 1/14/2009 4:53:19 PM

    Herbs are wonderful and helpful in so many situations. A little lavender in a fussy baby's bathwater can calm and relax both mom and baby. The part of our brain that detects smells is located very near the part that deals with our emotions. Certain smells and therefore certain herbs do not simply give us a certain sensation. They actually trigger a part of our brain that causes certain responses. Thus lavender relaxes, eucalyptus stimulates and cleanses, and lime gives a refreshing uplift. Herbs are a natural way to take care of ourselves. Salves or balms, as well as infusions, are safe and natural. For more information on healing balms and herb-infused oils go to www.beautifullynaturalskincare.com.

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