Vanilla infusion in coconut oil

Vegetable oils are the essential oils' partner of choice when used topically. Their special interaction with the skin, as well as their protective, nourishing and softening effects on the skin, make plant oils an indispensable ingredient in most skin care products. They also improve the skin's moisturizing and barrier function.

Plant oils include those extracted from seeds, kernels or other parts of the plant that contain oil. Unrefined, cold-pressed oils are preferred in aromatherapy. Each oil has its own therapeutic properties that complement those of essential oils, although they can often be used independently. But when used together in therapeutic blends, they form a special synergy that enhances the individual benefits of the components. More information about their properties, benefits and safety rules can be found in their monographs in the Excipients section.

A special category of these oils are infused/macerated oils. These are made by adding certain plants or plant parts to the appropriate vegetable oil (jojoba, sunflower, coconut, etc). After some time, the mixture is strained and the resulting oil incorporates the fat-soluble constituents of the plant, including the essential oil.

In this article I will introduce you to one of the ways to obtain infused coconut and vanilla oil, namely double bain marie infusion.

Materials used

• 400ml unfiltered organic coconut oil
• 2-4 organic vanilla pods
• 2 x 400 ml jars with lids
• straining bag or piece of muslin
• 2 bain-marie dishes

Preparing the infusion

We start by sterilizing the equipment used, in the dishwasher at the highest temperature. If you do not have a dishwasher, I recommend boiling the jars before use to ensure that the final product is not contaminated.

The vanilla pods should be chopped as finely as possible or you can use just the seeds inside.

Add three quarters of the coconut oil (in liquid form) to the jar, then add the chopped vanilla and fill the jar with oil. Screw on the lid.

For the most complete and quickest extraction that avoids damaging the materials used, I recommend using double bain marie. Place the jar with the coconut and vanilla mixture in the second pot. Gradually heat the water until the first air bubbles are visible and keep it there. In this way the oil is heated enough to absorb as much of the plant as possible, but does not risk overheating. Maintain this temperature for about 1 hour, then allow to cool to room temperature. Repeat this process over 48 hours as often as possible.

Strain the oil into the second sterilized jar. Use either a piece of muslin or a special bag for this purpose.

Label the product, noting both the contents and the date of infusion.

Store in a cool, dark place (preferably in the refrigerator) until use. The shelf life for the product is the shelf life of the coconut oil used.

Benefits and uses

Virgin coconut oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, as well as for its extraordinary benefits on the skin (improved skin moisturization and increased lipid levels on the skin's surface), all demonstrated in scientific studies. It is therefore an undeniable ally for any skincare product.

Although vanilla is nowadays used more as a spice, ancient texts indicate its therapeutic use for gastric disorders, rheumatism or fever, and emotionally for mental clarity and well-being, as an antidepressant or as a powerful aphrodisiac. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of vanilla's constituents are also known and scientifically proven, as well as its beneficial effects against UV damage.

The infused coconut and vanilla oil can be used as a body oil as well as a base for essential oil blends or other cosmetic preparations (lotions, creams, etc.) In addition to its extraordinary properties, this infusion also has a special aroma.

Tips, tricks and recommendations

The lower the temperature and the longer the infusion time, the more the oil will be flavored and incorporate more of the herb.

Leftover vanilla and coconut oil can be used either for culinary purposes or in other body preparations (bath salts, scrubs, etc.).

Always keep jars and their lids very dry. Any trace of water can irreparably damage the final product.

When straining the infusion, take care that the edges of the bag or muslin do not fall in. They can be fixed with clips.

If you have questions, please send us a message

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