Salves are thickened ointments used to treat skin issues such as rashes, minors burns, bites ecezma, inflammation, and cuts. They are easy to make using infused oil, beeswax, and essential oils.
How To Make Infused Oil
Infused oils are carrier oils such as almond oil, coconut oil, apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil, or olive oil that have been infused with one or more herbs. They can be purchased, but if you grow herbs they are easy to make. All you need is a mason jar, oil of your choice, and dried herbs hopefully from your garden. Use dried herbs to infuse oils because the water content of fresh herbs does not mix with the oil and introduces spoilage. If using fresh herb I suggests that you fresh wilt the herbs before infusing them in the oil. To fresh wilt herbs, spread them out on a tray in the sunlight for several hours until wilted. (Medicinal Herbs, Rosemary Gladstar)
Gently crush the herbs and fill the jar half full. Fill the jar with the infused oil making sure to cover the herbs. Cover the jar with muslin or cheese cloth which are both breathable. Place in a sunny window for 2-4 weeks. Periodically stir the jar. When you are satisfied with the oil, strain the oil through layers of cheese cloth and store in an air tight jar.
Store oil in the refrigerator to prevent it from going rancid. Make small quantities more frequently so the oil is fresh.
Herbs To Infuse for cosmetics and medicinal purposes:
Calendula, Lavender, Rosemary, Rose, Mullien Leaf, Lemon Balm, Chamomile
Beeswax
Beeswax is a thickener with anti-inflamatory and anti-oxidant benefits. It puts a protective layer over the wound and holds moisture in the skin. If you are fortunate enough to have bees you can use your own beeswax or purchase pellets from the health food store.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. Some good choices for salves are lavender, melaleuca (tea tree oil), bergamot, or Roman chamomile.
Skin Soothing Salve Recipe
- Make the infused oil.
- For each cup of infused oil add 1/4 cup beeswax.
- Heat over low heat stirring occasionally
- 3-5 drops of lavender or essential oil of choice
Consistency Test
Place 1 tablespoon of salve on a plate in the freezer for a minute or two. Check the firmness of the salve. Add oil to soften and beeswax to thicken.
I like to store in small glass jars but tins also work. Store in a cool dark place. Remember it is an oil and can go rancid so use it.
Calendula Salve
1 cup calendula infused oil
1/4 cup grated beeswax
4-6 drops lavender essential oil
If you want color add a pinch of tumeric root powder
Follow instructions above. Use to treat rashes, wounds, cuts, diaper rash, cradle cap, aches (Medicinal Herbs by Rosemary Gladstar)
