Herbal salves are a timeless way to care for the skin. From soothing dry hands to calming minor cuts, burns, and irritations, salves capture the healing compounds of herbs in a convenient, spreadable form. Unlike lotions, which are water-based, salves are made from oil and beeswax, giving them a rich, protective quality that locks moisture in while delivering herbal benefits.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert herbalist to make one. With just a few ingredients and simple tools, you can craft your own healing salve at home.
What You’ll Need
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Herbal-infused oil (made with dried herbs like calendula, comfrey, or plantain)
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Beeswax pellets (or candelilla wax for a vegan option)
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Double boiler or heat-safe bowl over a pot
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Cheesecloth or fine strainer
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Glass jars or tins for storage
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Optional: essential oils (lavender, tea tree, or rosemary for added effect)
Step 1: Make the Herbal Oil Infusion
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Choose skin-supporting herbs such as calendula (for soothing), comfrey (for tissue repair), or plantain (for bug bites and irritation).
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Fill a clean glass jar about halfway with dried herbs.
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Cover with carrier oil (olive, almond, or jojoba) until herbs are fully submerged.
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Infuse one of two ways:
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Slow method: Seal jar and let sit in a sunny window for 3–4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
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Quick method: Gently warm jar in a double boiler for 3–4 hours.
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Strain out the herbs and keep the infused oil.
Step 2: Combine with Beeswax
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Measure your infused oil into a clean pot or double boiler.
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Add beeswax pellets—about 1 ounce beeswax for every 4 ounces of oil.
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Warm gently, stirring until the beeswax melts completely.
Step 3: Customize Your Salve
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Add a few drops of essential oils once removed from heat (lavender for calm, tea tree for antimicrobial support, peppermint for cooling).
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Stir thoroughly to combine.
Step 4: Pour and Set
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Pour the warm mixture into small jars or tins.
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Let cool at room temperature until solid.
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Label with the herbs used and date made.
How to Use Herbal Salves
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Apply a thin layer to dry, cracked skin.
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Massage into sore muscles with herbs like arnica or cayenne-infused oils.
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Use on minor cuts, scrapes, or insect bites for soothing relief.
Storage and Shelf Life
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Keep salves in a cool, dark place.
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Shelf life is typically 6–12 months, depending on the oil used.
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Adding a few drops of vitamin E can extend freshness.
Final Thoughts
Making your own herbal salves is empowering, economical, and deeply rewarding. You can customize blends to suit your family’s needs—whether for daily skincare, first aid, or relaxation. With just herbs, oil, and beeswax, you’ll have a natural remedy at your fingertips.
Browse our selection of dried herbs at LAHerb.com to start crafting your own healing salves.
