Teach Soap

I want to try infusing some oil with herbs that I have. Do I dry the herbs first or can they be used fresh? If I have to dry them, how long does it take if I cut some sprigs and hang them to dry in the house?

I would think you would need to dry them first. Otherwise they might get moldy. As far as how long to dry them, it really depends on the herb. Some will dry fairly quickly, while others might take several weeks. I've heard of people using the microwave or regular oven to help speed up the process, but I've never done that myself. You want them to be dry and crispy, with any moisture removed from the leaves and/or stems.

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~Kelly~

Thanks!

Herbs have to be dried so they don't grow moldy in the oil.

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.

So I was wondering if you had a chance to infuse some oil yet....how did that work out for you?

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You only get One Chance to make a great first impression, but you get MANY Chances to be a Blessing.

Sigh, no I haven't gotten to it yet. I got as far as hanging sprigs of Rosemary and Peppermint in my kitchen window. My daughter asked if I was practicing witchcraft, lol. I've been so busy I actually kind of forgot about it, despite the dried herbs hanging there. They actually look kind of pretty, I tied them there with ribbons. Maybe soon when I have some days off.

Your herbs need to be dried to infuse your oil. I infuse oil for my lip balms. I put the dried herbs in a pint jar, cover with your oil of choice. You can either let it steep on its own or use a crock pot. I put the jar of herbs and oil in the crock pot filled with water. Set on low, the temp of the oil should not get over 120 degrees or so. I turn my off and then back on and do this for several hours. The oil will take on the color of the herbs. Strain thru cheesecloth lined wire strainer. Any questions, please just ask. Good Luck.