We're in cold and flu season. With simple ingredients, you can make your own oils and balms to ease winter maladies and boost your well-being. You'll need:

• 1 or more fresh or dried warming herbs (whole allspice, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, thin slices of fresh ginger, rosemary, sage, star anise, or thyme)
• 2 clean 8-ounce glass jars with tight-fitting lids
• A neutral, unscented oil (sunflower, safflower, avocado, etc.)
• A square of cheesecloth
• A small strainer

Pack the herbs into a jar and pour oil over them to cover, making sure air pockets are filled. Tighten lid. Place in a cool indoor location, and shake every few days. After 4 to 6 weeks, strain through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a clean jar.

Optional: To make a balm, melt an ounce of beeswax in a custard cup and stir in ½ teaspoon of your infused oil.

Use the oil or balm to anoint chakra points, rub into the chest when ill with a cold or flu, or scent a hot bath or shower, each time repeating:

Scent of oil, herbal healing,

Hand of the mothers, anoint me.

May I feel their power.