Create a luxurious, skin-nourishing oil blend by infusing camelina oil with healing herbs like calendula, chamomile, and lavender. This gentle, multipurpose oil is perfect for soothing irritated skin, moisturizing dry patches, and providing natural aromatherapy benefits.
Camelina oil, derived from an ancient seed crop, provides an exceptional base with its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and natural antioxidants that help protect and repair skin while remaining lightweight and non-greasy. The combination of calendula's renowned wound-healing properties, chamomile's anti-inflammatory and calming effects, and lavender's soothing aromatherapy benefits creates a truly therapeutic oil that works on multiple levels.
The optional addition of comfrey leaf, historically known as "knitbone" for its remarkable ability to promote skin regeneration, adds extra healing power for damaged or troubled skin. This versatile herbal oil can be used as a daily moisturizer, massage oil, treatment for minor cuts and scrapes, or even as a calming bedtime ritual when applied to pulse points.
The slow infusion process allows the oil to capture the full spectrum of the herbs' beneficial compounds, resulting in a golden, fragrant oil that embodies the healing wisdom of traditional herbalism.
Prepare Your Materials: Clean a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Ensure it is completely dry to prevent contamination.
Combine Herbs and Oil:
Place the dried herbs in the jar.
Pour camelina oil over the herbs, ensuring they are fully submerged to avoid spoilage.
Heat Infusion Method (Quick):
Set the jar in a small saucepan filled with 1-2 inches of water (double boiler style).
Warm over low heat for 2 hours, keeping the temperature below 100°F (38°C) to preserve the oil's nutrients. Stir occasionally.
No-Heat Method (Long):
Seal the jar and place it in a sunny spot or a warm, dry place. Let it infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
Strain the Oil: After the infusion time, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean, dry bottle. Squeeze out as much oil as possible from the herbs.
Store: Label your bottle with the date and store it in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Usage: Massage onto dry or irritated skin.Use as a base oil for salves or body butters.Apply a small amount to cuticles, dry patches, or scars.
Recipe Note
Cook Time: 2 hours (or 4-6 weeks for the no-heat method)
