how to make salves
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Salves and ointments are oil based rubs that are applied externally to soothe and moisturise irritated or itchy skin conditions, reduce inflammation, or ease the pain of bruises, sprains and swellings. Salves are most beneficial when made with a carrier oil that has been infused with the healing, therapeutic properties of botanicals (Read more on 'making infused oils & balms' here), and may also include essential oils. They are simple to make and keep well and for long periods when stored in a cool, dry place.
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Top Tips:
- You can make your salves thinner or thicker to suit your purpose, by reducing or increasing the solid wax to liquid oil ratio. If you'd like a thinner salve, add less wax, and if you prefer a more solid salve, add more wax. It's that simple.
- therapeutic goodness - go a long way - don't need much - small recipe. can make larger because keep well
ingredients
12g beeswax (may grate a beeswax stick bought from a local apiary/ farmers market, or buy beeswax pellets)
83ml vegetable, nut or infused oil - normal skin: sweet almond oil
- sensitive skin: apricot kernel
- mature skin: olive oil
83ml vegetable, nut or infused oil - normal skin: sweet almond oil
- sensitive skin: apricot kernel
- mature skin: olive oil
method
- Pour the oil into a heatproof pyrex jug, and add the beeswax.
- Melt the beeswax and oil together in a bain marie/ double boiler.
- When the beeswax is completely melted, remove from the heat.
- Stir the mixture until it has cooled but is still liquid.
- Add any extra ingredients (i.e.: essential oils, vitamin E)
- Carefully pour into jars and leave to set.
- Once cool, put the lid on the jar, label and date.
Important considerations & cautions:
Although botanicals (herbs, spices, plants) are considered safe for most people when used in cooking or in small amounts, inappropriate use of some of these botanicals could be dangerous. The content on this site shares our own personal use of botanical ingredients, is for information only, and should not be taken as medical advice. Prior to using any botanicals in recipes or remedies, you should always do your own research, and consult with a medical professional, your GP, or a qualified herbalist.
Although botanicals (herbs, spices, plants) are considered safe for most people when used in cooking or in small amounts, inappropriate use of some of these botanicals could be dangerous. The content on this site shares our own personal use of botanical ingredients, is for information only, and should not be taken as medical advice. Prior to using any botanicals in recipes or remedies, you should always do your own research, and consult with a medical professional, your GP, or a qualified herbalist.