Infused Kitchen Oils

Antiviral herb-infused oils are made much the same way as antiviral honey infusions. You can use a no-heat or a heated method. The heated method is often used when you need infused oil in a hurry. 

The No-Heat Method (for Dried Herbs)

Find a jar with a tight-fitting lid. A Mason jar will do nicely. Fill your jar about half full of the herbs of your choice. Then, fill the jar to the top with oil. Make sure to coat all the herbs with oil. Cap tightly. Label your jar and include the date. Then, allow the herbs to infuse (sit) somewhere warm but not hot for seven days. A sunny window or the top of the fridge will do. 

Turn the jar over at least once each day. To make a more potent batch, allow it to sit for two to four weeks. You can taste it anytime to check the flavor. Also, top it off with more oil if you see the oil level recede as the herbs become more saturated.

When infusing is done, strain the oil into a clean jar. You can use a small strainer. If you find tiny bits of herb disturbing, you can use cheesecloth or layers of sterile gauze to strain it further. However, it's okay to eat bits of herbs. Herbs are often left in for their appearance (they look very pretty in glass jars) and added to recipes for flavor.

The Heated Method (for Fresh Leaves)

"Extra moisture introduced into the infusion from the fresh material increases the risk of culturing undesirable bacteria that can cause your honey to ferment (Mountain Rose Herbs.com)."

If you are using fresh leaves straight from the garden, the heated method will work better for keeping your infusion stable. I'm sending you over to Mountain Rose Herbs to learn how to use the heated method.

Bee Pollen Infused Oil FYI

Have you ever seen gold powder on a bee's knees? That's bee pollen. Bee pollen has been used for skincare since ancient times for its anti-aging properties.

A natural oil containing Bee Pollen, a potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory, may help to speed the healing of mild burns and blisters, including herpes lesions.

Note: DO NOT use Bee Pollen if you are allergic to bees.