Pickling or preserving jars work very well for making your own herbal oil. Dried herbs work best because they do not contain water that can cause mold. If you don’t use dried herbs, let them wilt for about 12 hours, then crush them with a mortar and pestle before putting in the oil. Choose an herb-based on how you intend to use the finished herbal oil. For example, you can use neem oil as a natural insecticide or dandruff treatment.

Let it sit on the sunny shelf for two more days. Mix it by inversion twice a day.

Store the jar in a cool, dry, and dark place. If you want a stronger oil, add the new herb to the already-infused oil and repeat the process once more.

Cover the jar tightly.

You can also preheat the oven to the lowest possible temperature, place the pan with the herb and oils in the oven and turn off the oven. If you do this, you will have to repeat the process by re-heating the oven over the five to six-hour period. The goal is to have a steady temperature as possible. Use an oven thermometer to help you keep track. Check every hour or so to be certain the oil is not bubbling or smoking. If it is, carefully removes the pan and let the oven cool down a bit. Once it cools, put the jar back into the oven.

Store the oil in a cool, dry, dark place.

This method works well for making large batches of herbal oil. You can also place jars into the slow cooker. Just fill the crockpot halfway with water and cook them on warm. [6] X Research source

You can let the oil cook for up to 12 hours at 100 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. [7] X Research source Some crockpots are too hot to use to infuse oils. You will need to experiment. [8] X Research source

Store the oil in a cool, dry, dark place.

You can use virgin olive oil, safflower oil, castor oil, argan oil, or coconut oil. These can be found at local health stores, grocery stores, or online.

Lavender. This oil is used for relaxation aromatherapy. You can also use it to scent soaps. Lavender has antimicrobial properties as well. Calendula. This is used as an anti-inflammatory and to promote wound healing. Cannabis. If this is legal in your area, you use it for anxiety and pain relief. It can also be used as an antispasmodic and anti-nausea agent. Garlic. This is primarily used in oils as an antibacterial agent. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Ginger root. Ginger is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Goldenseal. This is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. Mullein. Mullein is used for respiratory and ear infections. Rosemary. It can be used in aromatherapy and in soaps. Rosemary is often used as a nootropic, which increases cognitive abilities and memory. Rosemary oil is also used as a muscle relaxant and antispasmodic. Thyme. Thyme is used for respiratory infections and to calm coughs. Oregano. This is used as an antimicrobial agent and immune booster. [13] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source St John’s wort. This is used as an antidepressant and to help get to and stay asleep. [14] X Research source Chamomile. This is used as a relaxant and sleep inducer. [15] X Research source Peppermint. Peppermint is used for digestive problems and irritable bowel syndrome. Eucalyptus. It is used for respiratory infections, sinusitis, and to calm coughs and relieve congestion.

For example, you may put one tablespoon of dried herb for five tablespoons of base oil. The strength of the oil general is based on the length of time the oil infuses and the amount of heat used. However, each batch will probably be different due to factors of the herbs, including the growing and harvesting conditions or if it is fresh or dried.

For example, if you are going to use the oil for cooking, you may choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. If you want to use the oil for cosmetics, jojoba, coconut, or argan oil may be a better choice. Different oils have different properties, so knowing why you need the oil helps you choose your herb.