A therapeutic hot olive oil and herb hair treatment can be made in your own kitchen, and your hair will feel like you've spent the day at an expensive spa. Although any hair type can benefit from this treatment, it will especially be beneficial for hair that is damaged and dry from exposure to wind and weather, or the excessive use of chemicals and heated styling tools. Parsley, rosemary, sage, calendula and nettle are especially useful in hair treatments, advises the website Pioneer Thinking.
Step 1
Place water in the bottom of a stainless steel or enamel double boiler. Alternatively, create a makeshift double boiler by placing a heatproof glass bowl in a saucepan. Put a small amount of water in the saucepan, but be sure the water doesn't reach the top of the bowl. Avoid aluminum or copper cookware as the metals can contaminate the herbal oil.
Step 2
Place approximately 6 to 8 tbsp. dried herbs in the top of the double boiler. Add enough olive oil to cover the herbs, plus 2 additional inches.
Step 3
Place the double boiler over medium heat and bring the water to a simmer. Allow the herbs and olive oil to steep over simmering water for two to three hours. Check the water level every 15 to 30 minutes. Don't allow the pan to boil dry.
Step 4
Allow the oil to cool for five to 10 minutes. Line a fine mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set the strainer over a bowl. Pour the warm herbal oil through the strainer.
Step 5
Use a funnel to pour the strained herbal oil into a dark-colored, airtight glass bottle or jar. Store the herbal oil in a dark, cool place away from sunlight. The oil should keep about a year, says Pioneer Thinking.
Things You'll Need
- Stainless steel or enamel double boiler
- Saucepan and glass bowl (optional)
- 6 to 8 tbsp. dried herbs
- Olive oil
- Fine mesh strainer
- Cheesecloth
- Funnel
- Dark glass bottle or jar
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