Many aromatic plants contain volatile oils which can be released by
soaking them in vegetable oil. This is sometimes known as an infused oil,
not to be confused with an infusion. These oils can then be used as
carrier oils (eg. for massage), or can be used in recipes for cosmetic and
medicinal ointments. There are two commonly used methods for preparing a
macerated oil.
The first method, known as The Sun Method can be used with cider vinegar
or witch hazel instead of vegetable oil, and will usually keep for up to 12
months.
- Finely chop fresh herbs and pack tightly in a sealable jar.
-
- Seal the jar and leave for 2 weeks in full direct sunlight. Shake jar
daily.
- Strain and repeat steps one to three with fresh plant material, but
using the same oil.
- Strain and pour into a dark glass bottle labelled with the name date.
The second method is called The Heating Method, and is used more
commonly as it is faster and more practical if the oil is needed more
immediately. Using this method will also allow the oil to be kept for up to
12 months.
- Place finely chopped herbs in a heat-proof bowl.
- Completely cover the the herbs with vegetable oil.
- Place the bowl over a pan of boiling water and heat for 1 hour.
- Remove the bowl containing the mixture from the heat. Strain and repeat
steps one to three.
- Strain the mixture and store in a dark glass bottle (label with name
and date).
| 
