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. 

DIY Journal Cover

Ok...

So I wanted to spruce up my spiritual journal that I have been using for over a year. Decorating can be a great way to revive or renew any object to give it a new or greater purpose. I wanted for this journal to stand out amongst all of my others since I use it to write prayers, describe reiki sessons, or jot down specifics of dreams.

Supplies:
Cardboard cut up into shapes of your choice
Nail Polish - At least 3 different types
Craft gems and pearls with a flat surface
Scissors
Notebook with a plastic cover
Recycled Paper Bag
Crazy Glue

Optional: glitter, sea salt.

You may also want to use a plastic cover it your notebook comes with it.

Decorate them to your liking! This was the most enjoyable part by far. Be creative. 

Use notebook cover as a template to cut the paper bag. Try to add extra length to account for folding!

If you like the paper bag look then simply apply the shapes.

However, I wanted more of a mosaic feel to it so I took a few moments to pant the book cover. Allow the paint to dry for about 5 - 10 minutes.

Once the paint has dried, apply a plastic shield for your book cover. In this picture I am using a plastic cover that came with the original journal. It is important to note that if you have any 3D designs it will take up more space then you may have allotted. 

Facial Steam Baths

I like to use these steam baths to clean my nasal pathways when they are congested. I also use this as a remedy against anxiety and morning grogginess. It also serves as a wonderful way to open up clogged pores prior to using  facial masks.

Scented Flowers
Hot Water
Mixing Bowl
4-6 drops of Essential Oils (I put lavender in mine)

I use freshly picked lavender leaves and put them in a mortar and pestle to squeeze the fragrances out. This is a subtle way to gain aroma without the potential harshness of inhaling essential oils.

Add lavender flower and leaves, dried chamomile flowers, and mint leaves. 

Let it steep for a few moments and then inhale. I also use a towel when apply my face to the bowl to get the full effects of the steam on my face.

Be sure your face is a few inches away from the bowl so that you avoid irritating your eyes or inhaling the fragrances to the point of nausea. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues be sure to consult a physician before adopting this as a daily regimen.

All Natural Toothpaste

Bentonite Clay has been one of my favorite staples since 2010. When I was transitioning from chemically processed to natural hair, I would make Bentonite Clay hair masks to deal with hair breakage that occurred at the line of demarcation. Little did I know I could use this same clay to create an all natural toothpaste as an alternative to fluoride toothpaste and store-brand "natural" toothpastes that contain chemicals.

Here are the ingredients involved: (I use a smaller amount then listed since I like to switch up the mixtures). 

• 1/2 tbsp of Bentonite Clay
• 5 to 6 drops of essential oils (My personal favorites are clove oil, eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil.) *
• 1 tsp of sea salt
• 1 tbsp Distilled Water
• Mixing bowl and/or container 

* Clove oil and eucalyptus oil have been shown to fight against cavities . I add tea tree oil for an extra boost since it reportedly helps against gum disease. 

Add bentonite clay and sea salt to mortar and pestle

Add distilled water little by little until you get the consistency that you are looking for

Feel free to add the essential oils of your choosing 

It should have a texture similar to paste.

Apply mixture to toothbrush and brush away! 

Disclaimer: I am not a physician nor do I claim to be knowledgeable of what will be appropriate for you and your oral care. It is advisable that you consult a knowledgeable professional who may before you engage in home remedies. All recipes and information listed on this site are for educational purposes only. Experiment at your own risk.

Natural Face Wash - Cinnamon and Honey

Hey loves! <3

I like to use this as an alternative to acne scrub facial washes that are harsh towards my skin so I thought I'd share this on my page.
I add 3 tbs honey and 1/4 tbs cinnamon mixture and apply it until I like the color and consistency. It will most likely be a chocolate brown color and feel like liquid foundation.

Test on skin for a few moments to ensure no irritation

Leave on face for a few moments then wash. What ever remains you can store in the fridge.