Infused Oils vs. Essential Oils: What’s the Difference?
Infused Oils vs. Essential Oils: What’s the Difference?
If you’re interested in natural remedies or skincare, you’ve probably heard of both infused oils and essential oils. While these oils are both commonly used in herbal products, they are quite different in their creation, properties, and uses. Knowing the difference between them can help you choose the right oil for your needs.
What Are Infused Oils?
Infused oils are made by soaking plant material—like flowers, herbs, or roots—in a carrier oil (such as olive, coconut, or sunflower oil) over a period of time. The heat from the sun, or another gentle heat source, extracts the beneficial compounds from the plant and transfers them into the oil.
For example, in my Rattlesnake Balm, I use a combination of infused oils such as arnica, comfrey, and cayenne infused in coconut oil. This process pulls out the anti-inflammatory and warming properties of the herbs, making the balm ideal for soothing sore muscles and joints after physical activity.
Infused oils tend to be gentler than essential oils, which makes them a great option for sensitive skin and daily use.
Infused oils contain a wide spectrum of plant constituents, offering a more balanced effect on the body. Unlike essential oils, they can be applied directly to the skin without dilution, as they are much milder. I love using infused oils in many of my products, like my Drawing Salve or Wound Salve, for their ability to deliver the full healing power of herbs.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils, on the other hand, are highly concentrated extracts obtained through steam distillation or cold pressing. They contain the volatile aromatic compounds of the plant and are much more potent than infused oils.
In my Rattlesnake Balm, I also incorporate essential oils like camphor, cloves, and black pepper to boost the balm’s ability to reduce tension and discomfort in muscles. These oils provide intense, targeted effects but must always be diluted with a carrier oil (like the coconut oil used in the balm) because of their potency.
Essential oils are well-known for their therapeutic properties in aromatherapy, skin care, and even household cleaning. Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are popular choices, but they are best used with care due to their strong nature.
Key Differences
Extraction Method: Infused oils are made by soaking plant materials in a carrier oil over time, while essential oils are extracted through steam distillation or cold pressing.
Concentration: Infused oils are less concentrated, making them gentle and suitable for direct application. Essential oils are far more concentrated and should always be diluted before use on the skin.
Uses: Infused oils are often used for their soothing, nourishing properties in balms and lotions. Essential oils are more potent and used in aromatherapy or for specific skin treatments when diluted.
Safety: Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. Infused oils are generally safe for direct application.
How I Use Them
In my Rattlesnake Balm, the balance between infused and essential oils creates a powerful but gentle muscle rub. The infused oils—such as arnica and comfrey—help soothe inflammation and promote healing, while the essential oils—like camphor and spearmint—offer a more immediate, stimulating effect to ease soreness.
Both infused and essential oils play an important role in herbal remedies, but it’s important to understand their differences so you can use them safely and effectively. Infused oils provide a more subtle, broad-spectrum benefit, while essential oils are ideal for more targeted, concentrated uses.
Sources:
HerbMentor. Infused Oils vs Essential Oils.
Learning Herbs. How to Make Herb-Infused Oils.
National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA). What Are Essential Oils?
