Herbal Salves: A How To Guide

Herbal salves are natural healing ointments that provide anti-inflammatory and pain relief to soothe irritation from rashes, bruises and scratches. 

Ingredients:

•  1 oz of beeswax 
•  8 ounces of mugwort* infused olive oil (for added anti-inflammatory relief infuse oil with comfrey, plantain or burdock). 
• 15-20 drops of essential oil 

*Mugwort is associated with inducing lucid dreams (hence mugwort dream pillows) and is known widely for its benefits as a "protector plant". 

Cookware and Supplies:

• Mason Jar 
• Tin Containers
• Strainer 
• Double Boiler (or a Pot)
• Mixing Bowl

Here is mugwort infused olive oil (roughly 8 ounces). I infused the mugwort herb in the oil for 6 weeks. 

Using a strainer and a glass bowl empty the contents of the bottle onto the strainer. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to  remove any excess oils from the infused herb.

1 pound of beeswax that smells oohh so divine. 

 Cut an oz strip of beeswax for your salve. Be careful as you do this since beeswax is quite thick and can be difficult to cut. 

If you do not have a double-boiler then take a clean mixing bowl and a large pot. Add the 1 oz block of beeswax into the mixing bowl and place it on top of the pot. Allow for the heat to simmer at a low-medium setting.

When it has fully melted it should take on a beautiful amber color. Be sure not to touch it since it is hot wax!

Add the infused oil. Since you are adding room temperature oil to piping hot wax it will cause the mixture to congeal and look like this.

Just let it simmer on low heat and stir it gently until it takes on a liquid texture again.

Add about 10-20 drops of essential oil to the liquid mixture. Be sure to quickly add the mixture into the mason jar and tin containers since the salve hardens really quickly. 

Be sure to label the salve by listing the ingredients and date it was made. These salves are multi-purpose and can be used for anti-inflammatory relief or on your chakra centers for protection during sleep.