What is a SALVE?
A salve is an ointment used to promote healing of the skin and also protection. Salves are most commonly made with a herbal infused oil, beeswax and/or lard (rendered animal fat) or unsalted clarified butter. Body heat melts the wax and allows for quick absorption of an infused oil.
Interesting note: A "balm" is a salve with relatively high amounts of volatile oils. It's aromatic vapors are noticeable upon application. Tiger's Balm, anyone?
The Basic Salve Recipe:
Materials & tools:
- Double boiler or cooking pot (designated for salves, oils, lotions)
- Strainer &/or Cheese cloth
- Measuring cup
- Cheese grater or knife for cutting beeswax into smaller, "meltable" pieces
- Pitcher or pouring device (Pyrex measuring cups work great for this)
- Rags or paper towels
- Tins/Salve containers
- Herb scale
It is ideal to have dedicated pans and utensils for making salves, oils, etc. No one wants herbal salve residue in their food or vice vera.
Keep things cleaned and sanitized.
1 cup (8 oz.) herbal infused oil
1 ounce by weight of wax (unless you are using wax pearls, then you might need a slightly higher ratio of wax: 1 oz. wax: 5 oz oil)
2 drops of essential oil (optional)
5 drops of Vitamin E (optional)
This will fill 10 one ounce tins.
- Over very low heat, heat wax until it begins to melt then add the oil. Stir occasionally.
- Make sure the oil and wax are blended together well.
- Do a consistency test: Place 1 tablespoon of the mixture onto a plate, then let it sit in the freezer for a minute or two. Check for firmness of the salve. For a harder salve (ideal for lip balms), add more wax to the blend. For a softer salve, add more oil.
- Once the desired consistency is met, remove from heat (now is the time to add essential oils or Vitamin E) and pour immediately into small glass jars or tins. This takes quick and steady hands. The mixture tends to cool quite fast as you're pouring, hence don't rush yourself, but understand that this is time sensitive.
- Store your salve in a cool, dark place where it will keep for several months (if not years).
Dosage: Use as much salve as needed. However, if you are applying cayenne slave or salve with strong aromatic oils, it might begin to irritate the skin. Be aware of your body's reactions!
Tricks & Tips:
- Vitamin E prolongs the shelf life of your salve.
- Adding a small amount of Cottonwood oil adds antimicrobial properties, which also help prolong the shelf life of your salve.
- Keep on lowest heat possible, do not overheat and scorch the oil. This will ruin the oil...
Common Herbs for Salves:
- Lemon Balm
- Oregon Grape
- St. Joan's Wort
Calendula & Lavender Salve
By Dr. Sharol Marie Tilgner (Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth)
16 ounces (2 cups) Calendula Infused Oil
2-3 TBSP. (1-1.5 ounces) Lavender Essential Oil
2.2 ounces (by weight) Beeswax
**Follow directions listed above**