• small saucepan
• stove or other source of constant low heat
• mixing bowl
• spoon
• strainer
• funnel
• 8-ounce jar with air-tight lid
• cutting board
• knife for fresh herbs
  

Fresh Herbs
Step 1 - Prepare Fresh Herb/Water/Glycerin Mixture
Make sure your fresh herbs are clean, and free from insects and mildew. Chop finely, measure and place herbs in the saucepan over low heat. Add 1/4 cup water and 3/4 cup of glycerin. Stir to mix. Barely simmer for two to three hours. When done the liquid will have taken on the color and fragrance of the herbs used. The mixture should come to a slow boil for at least a few minutes at some point during the cooking time to kill any bacteria on the fresh herbs. If it has barely simmered the entire time, you can bring it to a boil for a few minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it so it does not burn. Strain into a mixing bowl, then use the funnel to pour the mixture into a jar with an air-tight lid.

Dried Herbs
Step 1 - Prepare Dry Herb/Water/Glycerin Mixture
Measure and place the dry herbs in the saucepan over low heat. Add 2/3 cup glycerin and 1/3 cup water. Stir to mix. Barely simmer for two to three hours. When done the liquid will have taken on the color and fragrance of the herbs. Strain into a mixing bowl, then use the funnel to pour the mixture into a jar with an air-tight lid.

Your glycerin extract is now ready to use in massage lotions. Glycerin is an effective natural preservative. This extract should have a shelf life of six months to one year.