Guide to Infusions

To infuse botanicals is to make a concentrated solution of the herb, flower or fruit that can be added to natural cosmetics, toiletries, and soap. Follow this guide to infusions from Maria Nerius.

Method One

1. Chop, cut or powder 1 cup of the botanical.
2. Bring to a boil 2 cups of mineral or spring water.
3. Place botanicals in a container that has an airtight lid.
4. Pour in boiling water and seal the container. 
5. Allow this combination to set for 8-12 hours then strain to remove all botanical matter. 
6. If you want a stronger solution repeat the process by boiling the infused water and add it to a new batch of botanicals. 
7. Refrigerate if you do not use immediately. Shelf life is 24 hours.
    

Method Two

1. In the morning, chop, cut or powder 1-2 cups of the botanical.
2. Place botanicals in a glass container with 2-4 cups of mineral or spring water. Seal the container
3. Place container outside in full sun or in a window that will get full sun most of the day.
4. Strain the mixture at the end of the day keeping only the liquid.
5. If you want a stronger solution repeat the process the next morning adding new botanicals to the water.
6. Refrigerate if you do not use immediately.

Decoctions

If you are using the bark or roots of a flower or plant it is called a decoction rather than an infusion.

1. Cut, crush or powder the bark, roots or seeds to measure 1 cup.
2. Soak in 3 cups of cold mineral or spring water for 15-30 minutes.
3. Pour in to a saucepan and bring the water to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Cover the pan with a tight lid and simmer 10-15 more minutes.
6. Strain the solution to remove all the botanical matter, keep the liquid. 
7. Refrigerate if you do not use immediately. Shelf life is 24 hours.