Oleum infusum | Infused Oil

Infused oils are created by soaking plant material (herbs, flowers, roots) in a carrier oil (e.g., olive, coconut, jojoba) to extract the plant’s medicinal properties and essence. The process is similar to making tinctures but uses oil as a solvent rather than alcohol. Infused oils are typically used for topical applications, massage, and in preparations like balms or lotions.

Basic Recipe for Making Infused Oils:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried or fresh herbs (e.g., lavender, calendula, rosemary)

• 1 to 1.5 cups carrier oil (e.g., olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil)

• A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

Method:

1. Fill a glass jar with dried herbs (if using fresh herbs, let them wilt and use a breathable cloth instead of the lid to prevent mold).

2. Pour the carrier oil over the herbs, ensuring they are completely submerged.

3. Seal the jar and shake it gently.

4. Store in a warm, shaded place for 1–2 weeks, shaking it once or twice daily.

5. After 2 weeks, strain the herbs out using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.

6. Store the infused oil in a clean glass jar or bottle in a cool, dark place.

   
   

Alternative Method (Quick Infusion):

• Use a double boiler or slow cooker on low heat for 2–4 hours to speed up the infusion process.

Historical Medicinal Uses:

• Ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, used infused oils for skin care, wound healing, and massage.

• Early European herbalists would infuse oils with herbs like lavender, thyme, and rosemary to treat common ailments.

• Infused oils were used in medieval apothecaries for a range of issues, from muscle pain relief to treating skin disorders.

• Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine used herbal oils for massage therapy and relaxation.

Current Medicinal Uses:

• Skin care: Used for moisturizing dry skin, reducing inflammation, and soothing rashes or eczema (e.g., calendula oil).

• Muscle and joint pain: Herbs like arnica, ginger, or cayenne are infused in oils to relieve pain, stiffness, and bruising.

• Hair care: Infused oils like rosemary or nettle can promote hair growth and prevent dandruff.

• Massage: Infused oils are commonly used for relaxation or to relieve stress (e.g., lavender or chamomile).

Folklore Applications:

• Infused oils were often used in traditional folk medicine to treat common ailments like headaches, wounds, and colds.

• In many cultures, herbal oils were believed to carry the essence or spirit of the plant, enhancing their therapeutic qualities.

• Some folk traditions used infused oils as part of rituals to bring luck, love, or prosperity.

• Oils infused with sacred herbs (e.g., frankincense, myrrh) were used in religious ceremonies and to consecrate spaces.

Uses in Magic and Witchcraft:

• Anointing: Infused oils are often used to anoint candles, ritual tools, and the body during spells, prayers, or meditation.

• Protection: Certain oils (e.g., rosemary, lavender) are infused to create protective barriers against negative energies or spirits.

• Love and Attraction: Oils like rose, jasmine, or hibiscus are infused to attract love, beauty, or romantic energy.

• Cleansing and Purification: Herbs such as sage, basil, or sandalwood are often infused for purification rituals.

• Manifestation: Infused oils may be used in rituals to manifest desires, particularly when applied to talismans or objects of power.