Q&A for How to Make Natural Herbal Oil

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I use coconut oil, ginger, and garlic as body cream?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    Yes, but you should remember two things. First, try any cream on a small part of your body to make sure you aren't sensitive to any of the ingredients. Secondly, you should be aware that the garlic will leave an odor you may not like. Consider either decreasing the amount of garlic or adding a few drops of a pleasantly-scented oil like lavender.
  • Question
    I want to make an oil for acne using red rashberry leaves and rose hip. Which method would be best?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    Your best bet is to try the different methods and see which works best for you. Rose hip can be sensitive to degradation, so try using a gentler method, like the sun method.
  • Question
    How long does the herbal oil last after you make it?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    The "shelf-life"can vary depending on the ingredients, but you can make the oil last longer by storing it in a cool, dry place away from any sources of heat or light. Most people use brown or dark blue bottles that are tightly capped.
  • Question
    Should I use the leaf or the seed?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    It depends on the herb and sometimes the intended use. Different parts of a plant can have different uses. For example, dandelion leaves are commonly used to support the kidneys, while the root is used to support the liver. Research each individual herb, and use the recommended plant and part of the plant for your purposes.
  • Question
    Which oil base should I use if I am making herbal oil for candles?
    Zora Degrandpre, ND
    Natural Health Doctor
    Dr. Zora Degrandpre is a Natural Health Doctor and Licensed Naturopathic Physician in Vancouver, Washington. She is a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. She received her ND from the National College of Natural Medicine in 2007.
    Natural Health Doctor
    Expert Answer
    You can use any oil base that is edible. If you can use it in cooking or on a salad, it should work as a base. Keep in mind that many oils have a strong flavor that can overcome the flavor of your candy!
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article