Green Tea–Infused Oil
Green tea has tremendous benefits as a skincare ingredient. It has been
shown to reactivate dying skin cells, thereby improving the condition of
the skin. This nourishing antioxidant-rich all-purpose oil is used as a base
ingredient in several recipes throughout the book, but you can also use it
on its own as an anti-aging oil for your face and body.YIELDS: 8 ounces
⁄ cup loose leaf green tea 1 cup jojoba oil or coconut oil (coconut
oil is solid at 76°F (24.4°C); use coconut oil for this infusion as a
stand-alone body butter in cooler climates) What you will need:
double boiler, measuring cups, rubber spatula, strainer
(cheesecloth or tea strainer), 8-ounce bottle or jar, funnel
- To Make: Start a double boiler on medium heat. Once boiling, reduce
heat to a simmer. Place the green tea into the pan. If using jojoba oil,
pour it over the tea leaves, saturating them. If using coconut oil, melt it
first in the double boiler and then add the green tea, stirring to saturate
the leaves. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour. Check back every
20 minutes or so to make sure there is enough water in the double boiler.
Remove from heat, take the top pot off the double boiler, and let cool. - To Store: Strain tea from oil into a storage jar. The jojoba will remain
liquid. Place the coconut oil in the refrigerator to cool and solidify back
to a solid butter form. Will keep 2 years or longer if stored in a cool dark
place.
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