Infused Oils 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Making and Using Herbal Oils

One of the simplest and most rewarding ways to begin working with herbs is by making an infused oil.

If you’ve been spending time observing plants, learning to identify them, or even harvesting a few along the way, this is often the next natural step. Infused oils allow you to take what you’ve learned and turn it into something practical — something you can hold in your hands and use in your everyday life.

And the best part? You don’t need complicated equipment or years of experience to begin.

Just a jar, a good oil, and a plant you’re curious about.

What Is an Herbal Infused Oil?

An herbal infused oil is created by soaking plant material in oil over time, allowing the oil to extract beneficial properties from the herb.

Unlike essential oils, which are highly concentrated and require distillation, infused oils are gentle and accessible. They carry the qualities of the plant in a way that is easy to work with, especially for beginners.

Once infused, the oil can be used in a variety of ways — on its own, as part of a massage oil, or as the base for salves, balms, and other herbal preparations.

It’s one of the most foundational skills in herbalism, and one you’ll return to again and again.

Why Infused Oils Are a Perfect Place to Start

When you’re new to herbalism, it’s easy to feel like there’s a lot to learn. Infused oils simplify the process.

They allow you to:

• Work with one herb at a time

• Learn through hands-on practice

• Create something useful without complicated steps

There’s also something deeply satisfying about the process itself. You gather a plant, prepare it with care, and over time, it transforms into something you can use to support yourself and your family.

This is where herbalism shifts from something you read about to something you experience, something real.

Choosing Your Herb

If you’ve been following along seasonally, early spring offers some beautiful plants to begin with.

Gentle, beginner-friendly herbs are often the best choice. Plants that are easy to identify and widely available help you build confidence as you learn.

You might choose something you’ve already observed growing nearby — a plant you’ve taken the time to notice and understand.

Starting with a familiar plant deepens the connection and makes the process feel more intuitive.

Choosing Your Oil

The oil you choose will influence how your final product feels on the skin, how quickly it absorbs, and how long it lasts.

Some oils are rich and slow to absorb, making them ideal for salves and deeply moisturizing applications. Others are lighter and absorb more quickly, which can be preferable for body oils or facial use.

If you’re unsure where to begin, choose a simple, high-quality oil and work from there. You’ll learn what you prefer through experience.

Over time, you’ll begin to match specific oils with specific purposes, but in the beginning, simplicity is your best teacher.

Fresh vs. Dried Herbs

One of the most common questions beginners have is whether to use fresh or dried herbs.

Both can be used, but they behave differently.

Fresh herbs contain water, which can introduce moisture into your oil if not handled properly. Because of this, many herbalists prefer to let fresh herbs wilt for a day or two before infusing, reducing excess moisture.

Dried herbs are often considered the more beginner-friendly option because they have less water content and are less likely to cause spoilage. I use only dried herbs when infusing oils, that way I am sure there will be no moisture in my oil.

If you’re just starting out, working with dried herbs can help you feel more confident in the process. As you gain experience, you can begin experimenting with fresh plant infusions if you would like.

Two Simple Methods for Infusing Oils

There are many ways to make infused oils, but two of the most common methods are the slow (solar) method and the gentle heat method. For both methods, fill a jar ½ to ¾ with herbs and then pour in enough oil to completely cover the herbs. Place a lid on the jar if using dried herbs. If you use fresh herbs you want the moisture to evaporate, so I would not suggest using an air tight lid, I would cover with a coffee filter or cheese cloth secured with a rubber band.

The Slow (Solar) Method

This is the most traditional approach, used for millennia.

You place your herbs in a jar, cover them completely with oil, and let the mixture sit in a warm place for several weeks. Over time, the oil slowly extracts the properties of the plant.

This method requires patience, but it allows for a gentle and thorough infusion.

The Gentle Heat Method

If you prefer a quicker process, gentle heat can be used to speed things up. I tend to be impatient and so I use this method.

This might involve placing your jar in a warm water bath and using very low heat for a few hours. Another way is to use a food dehydrator set on 120 degrees. Place your jar of herbs and oil in it for 24 to 48 hours. The goal is to warm the oil slightly — not to cook it.

Care must be taken to avoid overheating, as too much heat can damage both the oil and the plant material.

Both methods work well. The choice often comes down to your timeline and personal preference.

Straining and Storing Your Oil

Once your oil has finished infusing, it’s time to strain out the plant material.

Using a cloth or fine strainer, gently separate the oil from the herbs, pressing lightly to extract as much oil as possible. You can use your hands to squeeze the oil out or I like to use a potato ricer, lined with cheese cloth, to press the oil from the herbs.

Store your finished oil in a clean, dry jar, ideally in a cool, dark place. Proper storage helps extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of your infusion.

Taking the time to label your jar with the herb and date is a simple habit that becomes incredibly helpful as you continue making herbal preparations.

How to Use Herbal Infused Oils

Once you’ve made your infused oil, there are many ways to use it.

It can be applied directly to the skin, used as a massage oil, or turned into a salve by adding beeswax.

Infused oils are often used to support:

• Dry or irritated skin

• Minor discomforts

• Everyday skin care routines

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Even something as simple as applying your oil to your hands or arms can become a meaningful daily practice — a reminder of the time and care you put into making it.

Learning Through Doing

Making infused oils is one of the best ways to build confidence in herbalism.

You don’t need to get everything perfect. Each batch you make teaches you something — how the oil feels, how the herb behaves, how the process unfolds over time.

The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.

Instead of trying to learn everything at once, you begin to understand herbalism through experience.

A Seasonal Way to Go Deeper

If you enjoy the idea of learning herbalism through hands-on practice, focusing on one plant at a time can make the process feel much more grounded and manageable.

That’s exactly the approach we take inside The Herbal Schoolhouse.

Each month, we explore one herb in depth — from identification and harvesting to creating simple, practical remedies like infused oils and salves. With guided projects, printable materials, and video tutorials, you’re able to build your skills step by step.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed, you gain confidence with each plant you work with.

Infused oils are often the beginning of that journey.

They are simple, versatile, and deeply connected to the rhythm of the seasons.

And once you’ve made your first jar, you’ll begin to see just how much is possible with a single herb and a little bit of time. 🌿

Choosing the Best Oils for Herbal Infusions: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

Selection of carrier oils to use for herbal infusions.

When you begin making herbal infused oils, one of the first questions that comes up is:

Which is the best oil for herbal infusions?

At first glance, it might seem like any oil will work — and technically, many will. But the oil you choose can change everything about your final product, from how it feels on your skin to how long it lasts on your shelf.

Some oils are rich and slow to absorb, making them ideal for salves and deeply moisturizing applications. Others are lighter, soaking into the skin quickly and leaving very little residue. Some are more stable and long-lasting, while others are more delicate and require a bit more care.

Understanding these differences allows you to choose the right oil for your purpose, rather than guessing and hoping for the best.

In this guide, we’ll look at four of the most commonly used oils in herbalism — olive oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil — and how each one works in herbal infusions and salves.

What Makes an Oil Good for Herbal Infusions?

Before diving into specific oils, it helps to understand what you’re looking for.

A good oil for herbal infusions should:

• Be stable enough to resist going rancid quickly

• Effectively extract plant constituents

• Feel appropriate for your intended use (skin, salve, massage, etc.)

• Be accessible and practical for regular use

Most herbalists choose carrier oils, which are plant-based oils that can safely carry herbal properties into the skin.

The “best” oil isn’t the same for every situation — it depends on what you’re making and how you plan to use it.

Olive Oil: Traditional, Nourishing, and Reliable

Olive oil has been used for centuries in herbal preparations, and for good reason. It is one of the most traditional oils for infusing herbs and making salves.

It has a rich, slightly heavy texture and a slower absorption rate, which allows it to sit on the skin longer. This makes it especially useful for dry or rough areas that benefit from deeper moisture.

Olive oil is also relatively stable compared to many other oils, giving your infused oils and salves a longer shelf life when stored properly.

One thing to consider is its scent. Olive oil has a distinct aroma that can carry through into your final product. Some people love this, while others prefer a more neutral-smelling oil.

Because of its thickness, olive oil works beautifully in salves and balms, where a more protective, longer-lasting layer on the skin is beneficial.

Sweet Almond Oil: Light, Gentle, and Skin-Friendly

Sweet almond oil is a favorite among herbalists who want something lighter and more easily absorbed.

It has a smooth, silky texture that glides easily over the skin, making it an excellent choice for massage oils and body applications. It absorbs more quickly than olive oil, leaving the skin soft without feeling overly greasy.

This oil is often chosen for facial products or areas where a lighter touch is preferred.

In terms of shelf life, sweet almond oil is moderately stable but not as long-lasting as olive oil. It’s best to make smaller batches or use it within a reasonable time frame to ensure freshness.

Its mild scent is another advantage, allowing the natural aroma of the herbs to come through more clearly in your infusion.

Sunflower Oil: Simple, Affordable, and Versatile

Sunflower oil is one of the most approachable and budget-friendly options for herbal infusions.

It has a light to medium texture and absorbs relatively well into the skin, making it a good middle-ground option — not as heavy as olive oil, but not as light as some specialty oils.

One of its biggest advantages is accessibility. It is widely available and often more affordable than other oils, making it a great choice if you plan to make larger batches of infused oils or salves.

Sunflower oil has a fairly neutral scent, which works well if you want the herbal qualities to take center stage.

The main consideration with sunflower oil is stability. While it can be a good option, it tends to have a shorter shelf life than olive oil, especially if not stored properly. Choosing high-quality, fresh oil and keeping it in a cool, dark place can help extend its usability.

Jojoba Oil: Lightweight, Stable, and Unique

Jojoba oil is a bit different from the other oils on this list. Technically, it is not an oil at all but a liquid wax, which gives it unique properties.

It is very lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving little to no greasy residue.

This makes it especially popular for facial products and for those who prefer a lighter feel.

One of the biggest advantages of jojoba oil is its stability. It has an exceptionally long shelf life and is resistant to going rancid, which can make it appealing for long-term use.

Because of its composition, jojoba closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, which is why many people find it particularly compatible with their skin.

However, jojoba oil is typically more expensive than the other oils listed here. For that reason, many herbalists reserve it for smaller batches or more specialized applications rather than large salve-making projects.

Choosing the Best Oil for Your Herbal Preparations

When deciding which oil to use, it helps to think about your end goal.

If you are making a salve or balm, a heavier oil like olive oil can provide a more protective and long-lasting barrier on the skin.

If you are creating a body oil or massage oil, sweet almond or sunflower oil may offer a more pleasant, lighter feel.

If you are working on a facial oil or a lightweight application, jojoba oil can be an excellent choice due to its quick absorption and skin compatibility.

There is no single “perfect” oil — only the oil that best fits your intention.

A Simple Way to Begin

If you’re just starting out, you don’t need to over-complicate the process.

Choose one oil, one herb, and make a small batch. Pay attention to how it feels on your skin, how it smells, and how well it holds up over time.

This kind of hands-on experience will teach you far more than trying to memorize the properties of every oil at once.

Over time, you’ll naturally develop preferences based on what you enjoy working with and what your skin responds to best.

Learning Through Practice

Working with herbal infused oils is one of the most rewarding ways to begin practicing herbalism. It combines observation, patience, and creativity in a way that brings the plants to life in your daily routine.

Inside The Herbal Schoolhouse, we take this process step by step, focusing on one herb at a time and guiding you through making your own infused oils, salves, and other simple remedies. With each project, you build confidence and deepen your understanding of how herbs and oils work together.

You don’t need a shelf full of supplies to begin. Just a jar, a good oil, and a plant you’re curious about.

That’s more than enough to get started. 🌿

🌿 Ethical Wildcrafting:Foraging with Care

Wildcrafting yarrow and a herbal book

As herbalists, one of the greatest joys is stepping outside and gathering plants from the wild. Whether it’s bright red rose hips, fragrant pine needles, or leafy medicinal herbs, wildcrafting allows us to connect with nature in a hands-on way.

But with this privilege comes responsibility. Ethical wildcrafting is about taking only what you need, respecting the plants and the land, and leaving enough behind so that ecosystems stay healthy for wildlife, other foragers, and future seasons.

In this post, we’ll explore the principles of ethical wildcrafting, where to forage, safety and legal considerations, how to avoid overharvesting, dealing with at-risk plants, invasive species, and practical tips for making your wildcrafting trips easier and more enjoyable.

🌱 Where to Wildcraft

The first step in ethical wildcrafting is choosing the right location. Plants grow in many places, but not every patch is open to public harvesting. Here are some tips:

• Public lands: Some parks, forests, and trails allow foraging, but regulations vary. Always check local laws and guidelines before harvesting.

• Private property: Never enter someone’s land without explicit permission. A polite ask to the landowner goes a long way, and many people are happy to let you gather small amounts.

• Disturbed areas: Roadsides, abandoned lots, or edges of trails may contain hardy herbs, but be mindful of pollution, pesticide drift, and soil contamination.

• Your own garden or yard: Many plants can be cultivated or encouraged in your own space. Even planting a small patch of wild herbs is a form of responsible wildcrafting.

Remember: ethical wildcrafting begins with respect for the land — if the plants or the environment look stressed, contaminated, or fragile, it’s best to leave them.

🌿 Ask Permission and Leave Respectful Footprints

It may seem obvious, but always ask permission from landowners. This isn’t just polite — it’s essential for maintaining access for everyone and protecting relationships with people and nature.

When you harvest:

• Take only what you need for your immediate projects.

• Avoid damaging the plant or surrounding vegetation.

• Step lightly and stay on paths when possible.

• Replace stones or mulch you may have moved.

By approaching wildcrafting this way, you honor both the plants and the humans who share the land.

🍂 Harvesting Without Overharvesting

Even on land you have permission to harvest, it’s important to leave plenty behind. Overharvesting reduces plant populations and impacts wildlife that depend on the plants.

A common guideline is:

• Take no more than 10–20% of the plant population in a single area.

• For trees and shrubs, only harvest a small portion of leaves, berries, or branches.

• For perennials and slow-growing plants, take even less.

Some plants recover quickly; others are fragile and slow-growing. Learning the growth patterns and reproductive cycles of each species is part of ethical wildcrafting. Observing and tracking plants over seasons will make you a better, more thoughtful forager.

⚠️ At-Risk and Endangered Plants

Part of ethical wildcrafting is knowing which plants should not be harvested:

• Endangered or threatened species: Never pick them. Their populations are already vulnerable.

• Rare plants in your region: Even if not officially endangered, plants with small or declining populations deserve extra care.

• Plants with slow reproduction: Some perennial herbs or trees take years to reach maturity; overharvesting young plants can damage long-term populations.

A simple rule of thumb: if you’re unsure, don’t pick it. Learning to identify plants accurately and consulting local conservation lists or native plant guides can prevent accidental harm. A great resource is United Plant Savers and their list of at-risk plants.

🌱 Invasive Plants: Harvesting Opportunities

Not all plants in the wild are native — some are invasive species that can harm local ecosystems. Examples include purple loosestrife, Japanese knotweed, and some thistles.

In many cases, harvesting invasive plants is both ethical and helpful: you remove aggressive species while using them for your projects. Always research the species first and ensure you’re harvesting in a responsible way without damaging surrounding native plants.

🛠️ Tools and Equipment for Ethical Wildcrafting

Having the right tools makes wildcrafting easier and less stressful — and it helps you harvest with care:

• Basket or cloth bags: Breathable containers prevent crushing and allow air circulation. Avoid plastic bags that can damage herbs.

• Scissors or small knife: Helps you take only what you need while leaving the plant intact.

• Gloves: Protect hands from thorns, rough stems, or irritant plants.

• Notebook or phone: Record locations, plant conditions, and harvest dates for future reference.

• Plant identification book: It’s always good to have a reference to make sure you’re harvesting the correct herb and not a look alike.

• Small containers or jars: For berries, seeds, or delicate herbs you gather along the way.

Minimalist and intentional equipment helps you stay organized and respectful, rather than gathering haphazardly.

🌿 Harvesting Tips for Beginners

Here are a few additional tips to make your first ethical wildcrafting experiences successful:

1. Scout before harvesting: Take a walk and observe plant abundance, ripeness, and condition before you collect anything.

2. Harvest in the morning: Plants often contain the most essential oils and nutrients early in the day.

3. Use sharp tools: Clean cuts help plants heal faster and reduce damage.

4. Separate species: Keep herbs separated to avoid mixing and ensure proper drying or processing later.

5. Leave no trace: Pack out what you bring in, and avoid trampling nearby plants.

🌸 The Mindset of Ethical Wildcrafting

Ethical wildcrafting is not just about technique; it’s about attitude. Approach the wild with curiosity, gratitude, and care:

• See yourself as a guest in the plant’s home, not a collector.

• Observe seasonal cycles and plant growth patterns.

• Recognize that wildcrafting is as much about learning and relationship-building as it is about harvesting.

• Respect wildlife and other foragers who may depend on the same resources.

By cultivating this mindset, you’ll find that wildcrafting becomes not just practical, but deeply rewarding.

🌱 A Beginner’s Quick Checklist

Here’s a simple checklist to keep in mind each time you forage:

• Know the plant and confirm identification

• Check local regulations and get permission if needed

• Harvest sustainably (10–20% of the population)

• Avoid at-risk or endangered plants

• Consider harvesting invasive species

• Bring proper tools: basket, knife/scissors, gloves

• Record what you harvest and where

• Leave the area clean and intact

🌿 In Closing

Ethical wildcrafting allows us to connect deeply with plants, land, and tradition. It reminds us that every plant has a story, a rhythm, and a place in the ecosystem. By harvesting thoughtfully, respecting landowners, and avoiding overharvesting or at-risk plants, we ensure that future generations — both human and plant — can continue to enjoy the gifts of the wild.

Whether you’re gathering herbs from your backyard, a mountain meadow, or a neighbor’s field, approach each trip with curiosity, patience, and gratitude. Ethical wildcrafting is not just a skill; it’s a practice of care, observation, and seasonal awareness — one that will serve you well in all areas of herbalism.

The Herbal Schoolhouse — where herbal skills take root. 🌿