Herbal Oil Infusions
Making an herbal oil infusion is a beautiful way to extract the benefits of herbs into a carrier oil. You can use these oils topically for dogs (or yourself!) or as a base for salves and balms. Here’s a simple, beginner-friendly overview to get you started.
What Is an Herbal Oil Infusion?
It’s simply an herb (fresh or dried) steeped in a carrier oil (like olive oil, jojoba, or sweet almond) for a period of time, allowing the oil to absorb the plant’s beneficial properties. These can be calming, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, or nourishing—depending on the herbs used.
What You’ll Need:
Dried herbs (like calendula, chamomile, comfrey, plantain, rosemary, lavender—whatever suits your intended use)
Carrier oil (cold-pressed organic olive oil is a great all-purpose choice)
A clean, dry glass jar with a lid
A strainer or cheesecloth
A dark glass storage bottle (optional but helps extend shelf life)
Always use dried herbs unless you're experienced with fresh—moisture from fresh herbs can cause mold.
How to Make It: Two Easy Methods
1. Solar (Traditional) Method:
Fill your jar about halfway with dried herbs.
Pour in your carrier oil until the herbs are fully covered, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
Stir to remove air bubbles and cap tightly.
Place in a sunny windowsill for 3–6 weeks, shaking gently every day.
Strain through cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean jar or bottle. Label and store in a cool, dark place.
2. Warm (Quick) Method:
Same as above, but instead of the sun, you use a double boiler or slow cooker on the lowest setting for 2–4 hours.
Stir occasionally and don’t allow it to get too hot (under 120°F is ideal).
Strain and store as above.
Optional Add-Ons:
Vitamin E oil (natural preservative)
A few drops of essential oils (once fully infused and cooled) if safe for your intended use
Uses for Infused Herbal Oils in Dogs:
Massage oil for sore joints (think rosemary or ginger infusions)
Soothing oil for skin irritation or bug bites (like calendula or plantain)
Ear cleaning blends (with mullein and garlic—only when appropriate and guided!)
Carrier base for essential oil dilution
Dana’s Thoughts
Herbal oils are simple to make but incredibly powerful tools in natural wellness for dogs and humans alike. I always keep a few on hand to use alone or as part of a larger wellness protocol. Just remember: oil infusions are for topical use unless you’re working with a professional to guide internal use for dogs.
Want to see which herbs I infuse and how I use them in my canine protocols? Come join my private client forum for access to recipes, videos, and case studies:
👉 https://members.welloiledk9.com
And hang out with us in our Facebook group too! https://facebook.com/groups/wellfedk9
Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.