BrittLeaPunch

Creating a natural lotion from garden herbs is a rewarding way to harness the benefits of nature for nourishing skincare. Here’s a guide to making a luxurious, herb-infused lotion at home:

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Supplies

• Herbs: Choose herbs with beneficial properties. Some great options include:
  
  • Lavender: Calming, anti-inflammatory
  • Rosemary: Antioxidant, invigorating
  • Chamomile: Soothing, anti-inflammatory
  • Calendula: Healing, gentle for sensitive skin
• Base Ingredients:
  
  • Carrier Oil: Olive, almond, or jojoba oils work well for moisturizing.
  • Beeswax or Shea Butter: Acts as an emulsifier and thickener.
  • Distilled Water or Aloe Vera Gel: Hydrates the skin and makes the lotion smoother.
• Optional Add-Ins: Vitamin E oil (preservative and skin-nourishing), essential oils for fragrance.
• Supplies: Double boiler, small saucepan, mixing bowl, hand blender, and clean jars or lotion bottles.

Step 2: Make an Herb-Infused Oil

• Dry the herbs completely to prevent any moisture from spoiling the oil.
• In a clean jar, combine 1 cup of carrier oil with ¼ cup of dried herbs.
• Let the mixture infuse for 1–2 weeks in a warm place, shaking it daily. For faster infusion, gently warm the mixture in a double boiler for 2–3 hours.
• Once infused, strain the oil through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove the herb pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Lotion Base

• Measure ¼ cup of herb-infused oil and 1 tablespoon of beeswax (or shea butter).
• Using a double boiler, melt the beeswax into the herb-infused oil over low heat. Stir occasionally to combine.
• Meanwhile, warm ½ cup of distilled water or aloe vera gel in a separate bowl.

Step 4: Emulsify the Mixture

• Once the oil and beeswax have melted and combined, slowly add the warm water or aloe vera gel while whisking or using a hand blender on low speed.
• Blend for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. This step creates the smooth, silky texture of the lotion.

Step 5: Add Final Ingredients

• Optional: Add 5–10 drops of essential oil (like lavender or rosemary) for scent and extra benefits.
• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil as a natural preservative to prolong shelf life.
• Stir or blend gently to incorporate.

Step 6: Cool and Store

• Pour the lotion into clean, sterilized jars or bottles.
• Let the lotion cool completely before sealing the containers.
• Store in a cool, dark place. Use within 3–6 months for best results.

Usage and Tips

• Apply as needed to hands, face, or body for smooth, hydrated skin.
• Patch-test before full use to ensure there’s no skin sensitivity.
• Store any extra lotion in the fridge to extend its shelf life.

With this easy process, you’ll have a nourishing, natural lotion that not only feels great but also showcases the herbal goodness from your garden!