Herbal Infused Oil: A Simple Staple for Every Home

If you grow herbs long enough, you’ll eventually have more than you can use fresh.

That’s where infused oils come in.

It’s one of the simplest ways to preserve herbs and put them to practical use—whether that’s in the kitchen or for everyday home remedies. No complicated steps, no special equipment. Just time and a little patience.

What It Is

An herbal infused oil is simply oil that has been steeped with herbs to pull out their natural properties.

It can be used in two main ways:

• In the kitchen (depending on the herb)

• Around the home for salves, balms, and simple preparations

Same process, different purpose.

Choosing Your Herbs

You can use a wide range of herbs depending on your goal.

For kitchen use:

• Basil

• Rosemary

• Oregano

• Thyme

For home and body use:

• Calendula

• Yarrow

• Comfrey

• Lavender

• Dandelion

Stick with herbs you trust and actually use. No need to overcomplicate it.

Fresh vs. Dried (This Matters)

Here’s where people often go wrong.

• Dried herbs are best for infused oils, especially for home and body use

• Fresh herbs can introduce moisture, which can lead to spoilage if not handled properly

If you do use fresh herbs, let them wilt for a day or two first to reduce moisture.

When in doubt, use dried. It’s safer and more reliable.

Tip: Dried herbs are what I use. If I pick fresh I lay them out on racks for a week or so until crunchy and then I start my infused oil.

A Basic Herbal Infused Oil Recipe

This is the method you can use again and again.

Ingredients

• 1/3 jar dried herbs

• enough oil to more than cover the herbs (olive oil is what I use the most for shelf life since I prefer not to use seed oils.)

Instructions

1. Place dried herbs in a clean, dry jar

2. Cover completely with oil, making sure no plant material is exposed

3. Stir gently to release air bubbles

4. Seal and place in a warm, out-of-direct-light spot

5. Let infuse for 6-8 weeks, shaking gently every few days

6. Strain through cheesecloth and store in a clean jar

How I Use It

This depends on the herb, but most often:

• As a base for salves and balms

• For dry or irritated skin

• In simple home remedies

• Occasionally in the kitchen (with culinary herbs)

It’s one of those things that quietly supports a lot of other projects.

Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dark place

• Use within 6–12 months

• Label your jars (you will forget otherwise)

If it smells or looks off, don’t try to salvage it. Start fresh.

‘Til next time, keep livin’ that farm fresh life!
~ Megan

👉 Curious how our homestead journey began? Read our story here.

A Quick Note on Safety

Keep this simple and sensible:

• Always use clean, dry jars

• Avoid moisture getting into the oil

• Be cautious with unfamiliar herbs

• Some herbs are not safe for internal use

This is based on traditional methods and everyday use—not medical advice.