How to Make Yarrow Infused Oil

This simple guide will teach you how to make yarrow infused oil, a key ingredient in DIY skincare, from soothing salves to healing balms.

Yarrow is a medicinal herb with vibrant clusters of small white to pink flowers. It’s renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent qualities, which make it particularly effective in healing wounds, soothing skin irritations, and improving digestive health. It can be used to make healing salves, balms, herbal teas, tinctures, and more.

Choosing Your Yarrow

Grow Your Own

For optimal infusion results, start with high-quality yarrow. I grow heirloom yarrow, starting from seed in my garden. It’s easy to grow and is an excellent companion plant, attracting beneficial insects and pollinators. 

If you’re not starting from seed, you might also find started yarrow plants at your local nursery, which can be a convenient alternative.

Buy Dried Flowers

If growing your own yarrow isn’t feasible, you can opt for dried yarrow. Mountain Rose Herbs is one reliable source of high-quality organic dried flowers and herbs.

Harvesting and Drying Yarrow

Harvesting

Harvest your yarrow when the flowers are in full bloom, typically in mid-summer, to capture their peak medicinal properties. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is at its strongest. It helps retain the herb’s potent qualities.

For cutting the flowers, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and cut the stems just above a leaf junction. This technique encourages further growth and ensures healthy, robust flowers for your infusion.

Drying

You have two main methods for drying yarrow: air drying or using a dehydrator.

Air Drying Options

• Hang the yarrow upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area.
• Lay the yarrow on a wire rack, tray, or cardboard. I use short boxes from Costco, spreading the yarrow in a single layer and mixing it up occasionally to ensure it dries evenly.

Using a Dehydrator

• Set the dehydrator to the lowest setting for herbs, around 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid higher temperatures to preserve the beneficial properties.

Make sure your yarrow flowers are completely dry before making your infused oil, as any moisture can lead to mold.

Choosing Your Oil

The oil you select will act as the carrier for the medicinal properties of yarrow in your final product. Here are some excellent options:

• Olive oil
• Sunflower oil
• Jojoba oil
• Sweet almond oil
• Coconut oil
• Avocado oil

For my infusions, I typically use organic extra virgin olive oil. Whenever possible, choose organic oils for the highest purity and quality of your infusion.

What You’ll Need to Make Yarrow-Infused Oil

• Dried Yarrow Flowers
• Carrier Oil
• Glass Jar with Airtight Lid
• Strainer or cheesecloth and Bowl
• Storage Containers

How to Make Yarrow Infused Oil

Prepare Your Yarrow: Once dried, place the flowers in a glass jar, filling it to about three-quarters full.

Add the Oil: Pour your chosen oil over the yarrow until the flowers are completely submerged. 

Seal and Store: Secure the lid and store the jar in a dark, cool place, such as a pantry shelf away from direct sunlight, to prevent degradation of the oil.

Wait and Shake: Allow the jar to sit for 4-6 weeks, shaking it occasionally to promote the extraction of the yarrow’s medicinal components.

Strain the Oil: Use a strainer to separate the yarrow flowers from the oil. Press the flowers gently to extract as much oil as possible. For finer filtration, pass the oil through cheesecloth.

Use Immediately or Store: The oil can be used right away or it can be added to your storage jars and stored in a cool, dark place. 

Using Your Yarrow Infused Oil

Use your yarrow infused oil in various ways, from making salves and balms to enhancing skincare products. It works wonderfully in massage oils, soothes as a component in lip balms, and serves as an effective moisturizer.

This homemade oil not only delivers therapeutic benefits but also taps into the natural healing powers of yarrow to boost your homemade skincare.

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