How to make a herbal salve

Making your own herbal salve is a fantastic way to avoid chemical based products and use natural ingredients and the healing power of herbs – maybe even from your garden. These homemade remedies are not only simple to create but also incredibly versatile and customisable to your needs and preferences. The process of making a herbal salve involves two key steps: creating a herb-infused oil and transforming that oil into a balm-like consistency – more on that below.

What is a herbal salve?

A salve is an essential part of every Herbal First Aid Chest. It is a topical ointment made by infusing medicinal herbs into a carrier oil and combining it with beeswax. This oily medium is good for carrying the fat-soluble properties of the herbs deep into the skin and surrounding tissues. Unlike creams or lotions, salves typically do not contain water, which makes them richer and more concentrated. They are great for abrasions, bruises, strains, dry skin, as a chest rub and lip balm – a handy addition to your home remedies.

What is a herbal salve used for?

Herbal salves can be used for all sorts of topical ailments. Here are some common uses:

• Moisturising dry skin: Salves made with herbs like calendula or chamomile are excellent for soothing and hydrating dry or cracked skin.
• Healing minor wounds and burns: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herbs such as lavender or plantain can aid in the healing process for cuts, scrapes, or sunburns.
• Easing aches and pains: Arnica or comfrey-infused salves can help relieve muscle pain, bruising, or joint stiffness.
• Reducing skin irritation: Herbs like St John’s Wort are known to calm rashes, eczema, or insect bites.

Which herbs can I use to make a salve?

Below is a list of herbs that you can find on our website that can be made into herbal salves. These are our favourites:

There are of course many more herbs that can be made into a salve:

How do I make a salve?

Ingredients

• 100ml Infused herbal oil (pre-prepared)
• 15g Beeswax
• Optional: essential oils, 5-10 drops per 100mL

Equipment

• Salve jars
• Heat-proof bowl

Method

• Prepare an infused oil: First you will need to make an infused oil. Once you’ve prepared the infused oil, measure out 100ml for the salve.
• Melt the beeswax: Place the infused oil in a heatproof bowl or bain-marie over gently simmering water. Add 15g of beeswax to the oil and heat slowly, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax is fully melted.
• Add essentail oils: Once the beeswax has melted, remove the bowl from the heat. While the mixture is still warm, stir in a few drops of your favourite essential oils to customise the scent and enhance the healing properties.
• Pour into containers: Carefully pour the warm mixture into your clean salve jars or tins. Leave a little space at the top of each container to avoid spillage.
• Cool and store: Let the salve cool at room temperature until it solidifies. Once cooled, seal the containers with lids, label them, and store in a cool, dry place.

Your homemade herbal salve is now ready to use! It should last up to six months if stored in a cool and dry spot.

Tips

• Apply as you need a few times a day.
• To see if the salve will set to the right consistency and has enough beeswax in, take a teaspoon of the hot oil, place it on a saucer and put it in the fridge. If it sets after a few minutes then you are ready. If not, add a little more beeswax.