When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. But when life gives you itchy skin, bug bites, and minor cuts and scrapes, what do you do? Reach for a trusty bottle of calamine lotion? Think again! Nature has provided us with an abundance of herbs that can be used to create powerful salves that will soothe, calm, and heal a multitude of skin woes. From the humble beginnings of mixing a few herbs together to creating a custom blend of your own, making herbal salves is easier than you think.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the most effective and easy-to-make herbal salve recipes that will have you saying goodbye to store-bought solutions and hello to natural relief. From calming bug bites and itchy skin to soothing muscle aches and pain, these recipes are sure to become staples in your self-care routine.
Calendula and Lavender Healing Salve
This soothing salve combines the anti-inflammatory properties of Calendula with the calming effects of Lavender to provide relief from dry skin, minor wounds, and sunburns. Perfect for self-care and natural healing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Calendula infused oil
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 10 drops Lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heat-proof glass bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the beeswax and coconut oil.
2. Stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add the Calendula infused oil and Lavender essential oil. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour into a clean, sterilized container or tin.
5. Allow to cool and thicken before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
– Use as needed on dry skin, minor wounds, or sunburns.
– Can also be used as a gentle massage oil for relaxation.
Comfrey and Plantain Skin Repair Salve
This nourishing salve harnesses the natural healing properties of comfrey and plantain to soothe and repair dry, damaged skin. With its non-greasy texture and gentle absorption, it’s perfect for everyday use.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup dried comfrey leaves
– 1/4 cup dried plantain leaves
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
– 2 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried comfrey and plantain leaves in a small bowl.
2. In a double boiler or a heat-proof glass bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the beeswax, coconut oil, and sweet almond oil.
3. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Add the herbal mixture to the melted oils and stir until well combined.
5. Remove from heat and let cool until slightly thickened.
6. Pour into a clean glass jar and add the lavender essential oil.
7. Allow to cool and thicken completely before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peppermint and Eucalyptus Cooling Salve
This refreshing salve is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a cooling treat for your skin. With the invigorating scents of peppermint and eucalyptus, this salve will leave your skin feeling calm and soothed.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax
– 2 tablespoons peppermint essential oil
– 2 tablespoons eucalyptus essential oil
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils.
3. Pour into a glass jar or tin container.
4. Allow to cool and thicken completely before using.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use as needed for dry, itchy skin or sunburn relief.
– Apply topically to the affected area.
– Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Arnica and Chamomile Pain Relief Salve
This soothing salve combines the natural anti-inflammatory properties of arnica with the calming effects of chamomile to provide relief from aches, pains, and discomfort.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax
– 2 tablespoons arnica oil
– 2 tablespoons chamomile essential oil
– 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax and coconut oil over low heat.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the arnica oil, chamomile essential oil, and vitamin E oil.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin.
4. Allow the salve to cool and solidify at room temperature (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Use as needed: Apply topically to affected area, massaging gently until absorbed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Muscle Soothing Salve
This natural salve is a perfect blend of herbs to soothe sore muscles and joints, providing relief from the discomfort of muscle strain or overexertion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax
– 2 tablespoons dried rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves
– 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until fully melted.
2. Add the dried rosemary and thyme leaves to the melted mixture and stir well to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before stirring in the lavender essential oil.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin and allow it to cool and solidify completely.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
This salve is ready to use immediately after cooling and setting. Apply topically as needed to soothe sore muscles and joints, taking care to massage well into the skin. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Bee Balm and Honey Anti-Itch Salve
Say goodbye to itchy skin with this natural salve made from bee balm, honey, and coconut oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup dried bee balm leaves
– 2 tablespoons raw honey
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon beeswax
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried bee balm leaves and coconut oil in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the bee balm to infuse into the coconut oil.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Add the honey and beeswax to the infused oil. Stir until the beeswax is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Pour the salve into a clean container and let it cool and solidify.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yarrow and Olive Oil First-Aid Salve
This gentle and effective salve is perfect for minor scrapes, cuts, and burns. The yarrow extract provides anti-inflammatory properties, while the olive oil moisturizes and soothes the skin.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried yarrow flowers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
– 2 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine dried yarrow flowers and olive oil in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F to 190°F (82°C to 88°C).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add beeswax pellets and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
5. Strain the salve through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar.
6. If desired, add lavender essential oil and mix well.
7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
St. John’s Wort and Coconut Oil Nerve Relief Salve
St. John’s Wort and Coconut Oil Nerve Relief Salve Recipe
Soothe and calm nerve-related discomfort with this natural salve, featuring the anti-inflammatory properties of St. John’s Wort and nourishing coconut oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon beeswax
– 1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Once melted, add the dried St. John’s Wort and stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the vitamin E oil.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin.
6. Allow to cool and solidify completely before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– For external use only.
– Apply topically to affected areas as needed, such as wrists, temples, or behind the ears.
– Can be used in conjunction with other nerve-relief methods like meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Ginger and Turmeric Warming Salve
This homemade salve is a natural remedy to soothe sore muscles, joints, and skin irritations. With the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and turmeric, this warming salve provides relief from discomfort and promotes overall well-being.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric powder
– 5 drops of peppermint essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax pellets over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the grated fresh ginger and ground turmeric powder until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a small glass jar or tin container.
4. Allow the salve to cool and solidify completely (about 30 minutes).
5. If desired, add the peppermint essential oil and mix well.
6. Use as needed to soothe sore muscles, joints, and skin irritations.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Balm and Almond Oil Relaxing Salve
Lemon Balm and Almond Oil Relaxing Salve Recipe
This soothing salve combines the calming properties of lemon balm with the nourishing benefits of almond oil, perfect for a relaxing evening routine or as a gift for loved ones.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup almond oil
• 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm leaves
• 1 teaspoon beeswax pellets
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• 5 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax and coconut oil over low heat.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the almond oil and dried lemon balm leaves. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
4. Add the lemon essential oil and stir well.
5. Allow the salve to cool and thicken before using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Note: This recipe makes approximately 1/2 cup of salve, which can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Echinacea and Goldenseal Immune-Boosting Salve
Strengthen your body’s natural defenses with this potent salve, featuring the anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea and the antimicrobial powers of Goldenseal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax
– 2 tablespoons Echinacea tincture (10:1)
– 2 tablespoons Goldenseal tincture (10:1)
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax over low heat.
2. Add the coconut oil and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and add the Echinacea and Goldenseal tinctures.
4. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour into a glass jar or tin and let cool and solidify at room temperature.
6. Once hardened, apply topically as needed to support immune function.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating time only)
Tea Tree and Neem Antibacterial Salve
This natural salve combines the antibacterial properties of tea tree oil with the insecticidal benefits of neem oil to create a powerful remedy for minor cuts, scrapes, and skin irritations.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 10 drops tea tree essential oil
– 5 drops neem essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the tea tree and neem essential oils.
3. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin and let it cool and solidify at room temperature.
4. Once set, use as needed to soothe minor skin irritations.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Shelf Life: Up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Aloe Vera and Shea Butter Moisturizing Salve
Soften and nourish dry skin with this rich and creamy salve, featuring the natural benefits of aloe vera and shea butter.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Shea Butter
– 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel
– 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil
– 2 tablespoons Beeswax
– 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the Shea Butter and Beeswax.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the Aloe Vera Gel until fully incorporated.
3. Add the Coconut Oil and mix until smooth.
4. If desired, add the Lavender Essential Oil and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean, sterilized salve tin or container.
6. Allow to cool and solidify at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mullein and Garlic Earache Relief Salve
Ease earaches and discomfort with this natural salve, featuring the soothing properties of mullein and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried mullein leaves
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon beeswax
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir to combine. Remove from heat once fragrant.
3. In a separate bowl, steep the dried mullein leaves in 1 tablespoon of hot water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mullein infusion into the saucepan with the coconut oil mixture. Whisk until well combined.
5. Add the melted beeswax and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour the salve into a small glass jar or tin. Let cool and harden before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– Apply a small amount of the salve to the affected ear using a cotton swab.
– For best results, apply the salve 2-3 times a day as needed.
Dandelion and Beeswax Skin Nourishing Salve
Soothe and moisturize your skin with this natural salve, infused with the healing properties of dandelion and beeswax.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried dandelion root
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
– 2 tablespoons vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. Combine dried dandelion root and coconut oil in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fully incorporated (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in beeswax pellets until melted.
3. Stir in vitamin E oil.
4. Pour the mixture into a sterilized glass jar or tin container. Allow it to cool and solidify before use.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– Use within 6 months of making for best results.
– Apply topically to dry, irritated skin as needed.
– Store in a cool, dark place.
Oregano and Coconut Oil Anti-Fungal Salve
This salve is a natural remedy for fungal infections, soothing and treating skin irritations like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and nail fungus. The combination of oregano essential oil and coconut oil creates a powerful anti-fungal blend that can be used on the skin or nails.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 10 drops oregano essential oil
– 5 drops tea tree essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax over low heat.
2. Once melted, add the coconut oil and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the oregano and tea tree essential oils (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Pour into a clean glass jar or tin and let cool completely before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
This salve can be used topically, applying 2-3 times daily as needed. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Witch Hazel and Vitamin E Scar Healing Salve
This natural salve is a soothing and nourishing solution to promote healthy skin recovery and reduce the appearance of scars. With its unique blend of witch hazel, vitamin E, and other natural ingredients, this salve helps to calm inflammation, hydrate the skin, and improve overall skin texture.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup shea butter
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 2 tablespoons witch hazel
– 10 drops vitamin E oil
– 5 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax over low heat.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the witch hazel and vitamin E oil until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin container.
4. Allow the salve to cool and solidify at room temperature.
5. Once solidified, use a spoon to scoop out a small amount of the salve as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Sage and Rosemary Aromatic Salve
This salve combines the earthy, herbaceous flavors of sage and rosemary with the soothing properties of coconut oil to create a natural, aromatic remedy for skin care. With its calming and rejuvenating effects, this salve is perfect for dry or irritated skin.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• 1 tablespoon dried sage leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary leaves
• 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax over low heat.
2. Add the coconut oil and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the dried sage and rosemary leaves, allowing them to infuse their aromas into the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar.
6. Let it cool and solidify completely before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gotu Kola and Jojoba Oil Wound Care Salve
This natural salve is a soothing blend of Gotu kola, jojoba oil, and beeswax, designed to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Gotu kola powder
– 4 tablespoons jojoba oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax pellets over low heat.
2. Add the jojoba oil and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and add the Gotu kola powder, stirring until well combined.
4. Allow mixture to cool and thicken slightly, then stir in the vitamin E oil.
5. Pour into a small glass jar or tin container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (melted beeswax), additional time for cooling and thickening.
Summary
Discover 20 natural remedies to soothe and calm your skin, muscles, and mind. These easy-to-make herbal salves use a variety of herbs like calendula, lavender, peppermint, and more to provide quick relief from pain, itching, and inflammation. From anti-itch and anti-fungal salves to moisturizing and wound care solutions, these recipes offer natural alternatives for common ailments. Whether you’re looking to soothe sunburned skin or ease muscle tension, there’s a recipe here to help. Get started with these 20 soothing herbal salve recipes and say goodbye to harsh chemicals!
