Why Make Herbal Salves at Home?
Herbal salves are a wonderful way to use the healing properties of plants to treat various skin issues. By making your own salves at home, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring that they are all-natural and free from harmful chemicals. Not only do herbal salves provide relief for dry skin, burns, and minor wounds, but they are also a fun and creative way to incorporate wellness into your daily routine.
Choosing the Right Herbs for Your Salve
The first step in making herbal salves is selecting the right herbs. Common herbs used in salves include calendula, chamomile, and lavender, all of which have soothing and healing properties. You can either use fresh or dried herbs, but it’s important to choose organic herbs to ensure the highest quality product. For an added benefit, you can also include medicinal herbs like comfrey or plantain, known for their powerful healing abilities.
Preparing the Base for Your Salve
Once you have selected your herbs, the next step is preparing the base for your salve. This typically involves infusing the herbs into a carrier oil, such as organic olive oil or coconut oil. To infuse the herbs, gently heat the oil and herbs together, allowing the beneficial properties of the herbs to seep into the oil. Once infused, strain the herbs out, leaving behind the herbal oil to use in your salve.
Making the Salve: The Final Steps
Now that you have your herbal-infused oil, it’s time to make the salve. To do this, melt beeswax (preferably wildcrafted, like the one used in our products) and mix it with the herbal oil. The amount of beeswax you use will determine the consistency of your salve—more beeswax will create a firmer texture, while less will result in a softer salve. After mixing, pour the salve into containers and allow it to cool and harden.
Using and Storing Your Homemade Salve
Once your herbal salve has cooled, it’s ready to use. Apply it to dry skin, chapped lips, or irritated areas for quick relief. Homemade salves should be stored in a cool, dry place, and they will last for several months. By making your own salves, you are creating a personalized skincare solution using natural, organic ingredients that benefit your skin and promote wellness
