How to Make Herbal Remedies: Salves 🌼
Herbal salves are semi-solid ointments used for skin healing and protection. They are made by infusing herbs in oil and then thickening the oil with beeswax.
Here’s how to make herbal salves:
Ingredients and Supplies:
- Fresh or dried herbs (such as calendula, comfrey, or lavender)
- Carrier oil (olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil)
- Beeswax
- Glass jars or tins for storage
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Double boiler or a heat-safe bowl over a pot of water
Instructions:
1. Infuse the Oil:
- Cold Infusion: Fill a jar with herbs and cover them completely with oil. Seal the jar and let it sit in a sunny spot for 2-4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Heat Infusion: Place herbs and oil in a double boiler. Heat gently over low heat for 2-3 hours, ensuring the oil does not overheat or boil.
2. Strain the Oil:
- After infusing, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl, squeezing out as much oil as possible from the herbs.
3. Prepare the Salve:
- Measure the infused oil. For every 1 cup of oil, use about 1 ounce of beeswax.
- In a double boiler, melt the beeswax slowly. Once melted, add the infused oil and stir until well combined.
- To test the consistency, place a small amount on a spoon and put it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Adjust by adding more beeswax for a firmer salve or more oil for a softer salve.
4. Pour and Cool:
- Pour the mixture into glass jars or tins. Allow the salve to cool and harden completely before sealing with lids.
Usage:
- Application: Apply the salve to the skin as needed. It can be used for cuts, scrapes, burns, dry skin, and other minor skin conditions.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. Salves can last up to a year if kept properly.
Tips:
- Use high-quality, organic oils and herbs for the best results.
- Experiment with different herb combinations to suit your specific needs, such as soothing lavender or healing calendula.
- Label your salves with the ingredients and date of preparation.
