How to Make Herbal Infusions in Oil for Skincare (Plus Tea)

If you're looking for a natural way to nourish your skin or support your wellbeing, herbal infusions in oil are one of the simplest, most effective places to start. By gently extracting the healing properties of plants into a carrier oil, you can create potent, customizable skincare at home — no lab needed.

This guide shows you how to infuse herbs in oil, how to choose your infusion herbs, and even how to incorporate DIY herbal tea blends into your daily routine.

What Are Herbal Oil Infusions?

Herbal oil infusions are made by soaking dried or fresh herbs in a carrier oil (like olive oil, sunflower, or grapeseed) over time. The plant’s beneficial compounds — like antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and vitamins — are slowly drawn into the oil, which can then be used for balms, salves, face oils, or body treatments.

When using oils, start by dehydrating your herbs and flowers first to remove the moisture so you don't need to add preservative. Any products that have water content will need preservative. So if you want a pure oil infusion you will need to pre dry ingredients. You can also store a lot more this way for longer. I use this dehydrator I made at home using this gentleman's plans which you can use too. It's the best (as you would expect after almost two decades of testing).

Best Herbs for Skincare Oil Infusions

Here are some popular infusion herbs to get you started:

• Calendula – soothing, healing, and great for dry or sensitive skin
• Kawakawa – anti-inflammatory and deeply restorative
• Chickweed – cooling and helpful for itching or eczema
• Lavender – calming and antimicrobial
• Plantain – great for bites, rashes, and scars
• Tea Tree – antimicrobial and purifying (see notes on tea tree oil below)

How to Infuse Herbs in Oil (Two Easy Methods)

1. Slow Sun Method (No Heat)

Great for preserving delicate herbs and vitamins.

• Fill a clean, dry jar ¾ full with dried herbs
• Cover completely with your chosen oil
• Seal and place in a sunny windowsill for 2–4 weeks
• Shake gently every few days
• Strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth
• Store in a dark glass bottle away from heat

2. Warm Water Bath Method

Faster, and useful for fresh herbs.

• Place herbs and oil in a glass jar
• Set jar in a pot of water on very low heat (double boiler style)
• Let infuse for 2–4 hours, never letting the oil overheat
• Strain and bottle

🌿 Note: Never microwave oils or overheat. Heat breaks down nutrients and can create rancidity.

Making Herbal Oil Infusion Recipes

Here are a few blends to try:

✳️ Calm Skin Blend

• Calendula + chamomile in jojoba or sunflower oil
• Use for face oil or calming balm

✳️ Clear Skin Blend

• Lavender + dried lemon peel + kawakawa in grapeseed oil
• Add a drop of herbal tea tree oil for breakout-prone skin

✳️ Muscle Soothe Blend

• Rosemary + arnica + peppermint in olive oil
• Great for massage oils and sore muscles

How to Use Herbal Infused Oils

• Apply directly as a face or body oil
• Use as the base for salves, balms, or lotion bars
• Add a few drops to your bath
• Mix into your favorite skincare products

Bonus: DIY Herbal Tea Blends

While you're harvesting or buying herbs, consider creating DIY herbal tea blends too. These can support the body from the inside out and enhance skin health.

Simple Teas for Skin & Weight Support

• Nettle – mineral-rich and detoxifying
• Dandelion leaf – supports digestion and liver health
• Lemon balm – calming and anti-inflammatory
• Chamomile – soothes the nervous system and gut
• Kawakawa – traditional Māori remedy for digestion and internal balance
• Peppermint – great for bloating and flavour

Steep 1 tsp per cup for 5–10 mins. Drink 1–2 times a day.

☕ Tip: If you’re researching homemade herbal tea for weight loss, look for blends that support digestion, reduce bloating, and gently detox — rather than harsh diuretics.

Final Tips for Making Oil Infusions

• Always label your jars with dates and herbs used
• Use dried herbs when possible to avoid mold
• Store finished oils in a cool, dark place
• Use within 6–12 months

DIY Kawakawa Balm Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup kawakawa-infused oil
• 2 tbsp calendula-infused oil (optional)
• 2 tbsp chickweed-infused oil (optional)
• 1 tbsp shea butter (optional, adds richness)
• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets (adjust for firmness)
• 10 drops karanja oil or lavender essential oil (optional)

METHOD:

1. Gently melt beeswax and shea butter in a double boiler.
2. Add infused oils and stir slowly until fully blended.
3. Remove from heat and stir in essential oils.
4. Pour into sterilised jars or tins and allow to cool before sealing.
   
   TIP: Add chickweed and calendula for a hyper effective recipe and barrier balm. 

Want Ready- Made Herbal Infusion Products?

If DIY isn’t your thing (or you just want something that works without the wait), explore our Soap & Serum range. Every product is handcrafted using slow herbal oil infusions made with kawakawa, calendula, chickweed, and other healing plants — grown, foraged, or infused by hand right here in Aotearoa.