Herbal Oils

The herbs that grow in your garden can be made into herbal oils for use throughout the year.

depending on the herbs that you wish to use, you can make herbal oils during the summer and winter.

Today we are making valerian oil, with some valerian roots that were harvested and dried last winter.

We use Valerian oil as part of a massage rub to soothe restless legs and cramping.

 

Valerian
Valeriana Officinalis

Herbal oils are made in a similiar way to the herbal vinegars in previous posts.

Have ready a clean sterilised jar with a lid, the oil that you wish to infuse your herbs in and your plant material.

Today we are using valerian root and organic cold pressed olive oil.

1. prepare your herbs ( make sure they are clean, free of other materials and water).
2.  Chop your herbs into pieces roughly 2cm in length
3. Place the chopped herbs in your clean jar, the tighter you pack the herbs, the stronger the oil will be.
4. Pour over the olive oil, filling to the top
5. Use a chopstick to clear any air bubbles in the oil
6. Seal tightly, label with name and date.
7. Place in a warm spot where you can check the jar for any leakage of oils and top up if neccessary.

After the herbs have infused for 4-6 weeks you will be able to decant them through a fine sieve, with the result being a beautiful medicinal herbal oil.

 

 Valerian, Chamomile and Calendula herbal oils getting made