how to make coconut balm, coconut oil skin, coconut body balm, herbal body oilI fell in love with my fruit- and herb-infused coconut oil, I am using it everywhere. The recipe is simple: melt 1 cup coconut oil (preferably organic) on very, very low heat until liquid and add the herbs - as much or as little as you like. Allow to simmer for 30 minutes on very low heat - do not allow to boil. Stir frequently. Strain and pour the butter into a jar. Store in a fridge to keep it fresh for up to 1 month.

Be creative and mix and match the herbs to your liking. I came up with these fun combinations:

Anti-cellulite balm

Fresh twigs of rosemary, fresh lemon, nettle tea bags. I add a few drops of juniper essential oil when the balm has cooled down.

Soothing skin balm

Dried marigold, chamomile tea, nettle, a teaspoon honey, chopped peeled carrot.

Hand cream

Aloe vera gel, chopped peeled apple, lavender twigs, a few drops tea tree oil.

Anti aging body cream

Vitamin E, rooibos tea and rosehip tea bags, pomegranate, carrot, chopped orange.

Three reasons to love fresh herbs: They are rich in vitamins, minerals and essential oils. In China, herbs do double duty as seasonings and medicines. In India, they are a main ingredient in the concoction of products used to enhance complexions and preserve the skin's natural beauty.

To prepare even simpler herb-infused coconut balm pick the herb you need: Rosemary has astringent properties; basil and parsley are great toners; chamomile calms; and oregano is a mild diuretic - great to diminish swelling and puffiness.