Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes. Consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before preparing herbal infusions.
Oil Infusion Guide: Best Carrier Oils for Herbal Infusions
Overview
Carrier oils extract and preserve herbal constituents. Selecting an oil with the right fatty acid composition, heat tolerance, and stability ensures quality and potency of your infusion.
Carrier Oils Comparison
| Oil | Major Fatty Acids | Smoke Point | Bond Breakdown Temp. |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Olive Oil more storage |
Oleic ~75%, Linoleic ~10%, Palmitic ~10% | 190 °C | 180 °C |
|
Coconut Oil more storage |
Lauric ~49%, Myristic ~18%, Caprylic ~9% | 177 °C | 170 °C |
|
Avocado Oil more storage |
Oleic ~70%, Linoleic ~10%, Palmitic ~10% | 271 °C | 260 °C |
|
Sunflower Oil more storage |
Linoleic ~60%, Oleic ~30%, Palmitic ~10% | 227 °C | 220 °C |
|
Grapeseed Oil more storage |
Linoleic ~70%, Oleic ~16%, Palmitic ~10% | 216 °C | 210 °C |
|
Sweet Almond Oil more storage |
Oleic ~65%, Linoleic ~25%, Palmitic ~6% | 216 °C | 210 °C |
|
Apricot Kernel Oil more storage |
Oleic ~70%, Linoleic ~20%, Palmitic ~6% | 216 °C | 205 °C |
|
Hemp Seed Oil more storage |
Linoleic ~55%, Alpha-Linolenic ~20%, Oleic ~15% | 165 °C | 160 °C |
|
Argan Oil more storage |
Oleic ~45%, Linoleic ~35%, Palmitic ~12% | 250 °C | 240 °C |
Breakdown Properties
Above the bond breakdown temperature, triglyceride ester bonds hydrolyze and oxidize, diminishing herbal extraction and causing off-flavors. To preserve active constituents, infuse oils at or below their breakdown thresholds (typically 10–20°C below the smoke point), using gentle heat (e.g., double boiler) or cold infusion methods.
Infusion Tips
- Cold Infusion: Steep herbs in oil at room temperature for 2–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Warm Infusion: Gently heat oil and herbs at 50–60 °C for 2–3 hours in a double boiler.
- Storage: Store filtered infusions in amber bottles, in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.