You’re out in the garden, weeding, and pruning. Suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your hand. You stop and look down to see a big, fat spider crawling away from your injured finger. Yikes! If only there was something you could put on that wound to help it heal faster.

Luckily, there is! You can make a homemade salve with just a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

How do I make a homemade salve? A homemade salve is easy to make! Simply combine beeswax, coconut oil, and lavender oil in a double boiler, and heat until the beeswax has melted. Remove from heat and pour into a jar. Allow to cool, then apply as needed.

If you're looking for an easy way to soothe minor wounds and scratches, consider a homemade salve. This recipe is simple to follow and only requires a few ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. So why not give this easy DIY a try? You may be surprised at how well it works!

How To Make Homemade Salve

1. Combine beeswax, coconut oil, and lavender oil in a double boiler

When making a homemade salve, it's important to consider the consistency you want it to have. If you want a thicker salve, use more beeswax. If you want a thinner salve, use less beeswax. You can also customize the recipe by adding other essential oils such as tea tree oil or rosemary oil. Just be sure to do your research first to make sure the oils are compatible with one another.

If you don't have a double boiler, you can use a pot filled with water on the stove. Place the beeswax, coconut oil, and lavender oil in a glass jar or bowl, then place the jar or bowl inside the pot of water. Heat the water until it begins to simmer, then let the ingredients melt together.

If you have any health concerns, it's best to consult with a doctor before using essential oils in a salve recipe.

2. Heat until the beeswax has melted

When melting the beeswax, be sure to keep an eye on it and stir frequently. Once it has melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

A good amount of beeswax to use in this recipe is 1 ounce.

3. Remove from heat and pour into a jar

Melting the beeswax carefully and stirring frequently is important so that it doesn't burn. If the beeswax is burned, it will give the salve an unpleasant smell.

• Make sure the jar you use is heat-resistant

• If you want to add a scent to your salve, use an essential oil

• If you want to add color to your salve, use food coloring or natural dye

Salve recipes usually make about 1 cup of salve, which is enough to fill about 4-5 tins. However, you may want to make a smaller batch if this is your first time making a salve. In that case, you would only need about .25 ounces of beeswax, 1/4 cup of coconut oil, and 8-10 drops of lavender oil.

4. Allow cooling

Allowing the salve to cool down allows the ingredients to meld together and creates a firmer finished product. 

When allowing the salve to cool, be sure to put it in a container that will allow it to harden. You can use a jar, tin, or even a recycled lip balm tube. If you're giving the salve as a gift, consider adding a pretty label or tying a ribbon around the container.

5. Apply as needed

When applying a salve, it is important to be gentle and to avoid getting the product in your eyes. If you are using a salve on a cut or wound, make sure to clean the area first and then apply the salve.

It is also important to remember that salves are not meant to be used as a replacement for medication, so if you are experiencing any serious medical issues, be sure to consult a doctor.

Making a salve at home is an incredibly rewarding way to stock your first aid kit. The 4-5 tins one batch of salve will provide allows you to keep it in all different places you might reach for it. Since it’s oil-based, use dish towels and wear clothes you don’t mind potentially getting a little stained.

After your salve ingredients are melted, put a small amount on a spoon and place it in the freezer. Leave the spoon in the freezer for about 10 minutes and check it for consistency. If it’s still very soft, you can add more beeswax to your salve by putting it back on the heat and melting it. But it might just be perfect! If it’s too hard to apply, add more oil.

Best Herbs for Salve Recipes

Arnica Flowers

Arnica flowers are a popular ingredient in many salve recipes because of their healing properties. Arnica has been used for centuries to treat a variety of medical issues, including bruises, pain, and inflammation.

Burdock Root

The medicinal properties of burdock root include its ability to detoxify the body, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Burdock root can also be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.

Cayenne Powder

Cayenne powder is a powerful herb with many medicinal properties. It is a natural analgesic, meaning it helps to relieve pain. It can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Cayenne powder can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Pain relief

• Inflammation

• Heartburn

• Acid reflux

• Insomnia

• Asthma

If you are interested in making an anti-inflammatory salve, check out our pain relief salve recipe which you will find very useful.

Chamomile Flowers

Chamomile flowers are a member of the Asteraceae family and are known for their medicinal properties. They have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including skin irritations, anxiety, and insomnia. Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic, and it can also help to promote healing.

Chickweed

Chickweed is a wild plant that is found in many parts of the world. It has a long history of use as a medicine, and recent research has confirmed its many therapeutic benefits. Chickweed is a natural antihistamine and is effective at reducing inflammation. It is also a good source of minerals like zinc and magnesium, and it contains antioxidants that can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Chickweed can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including hay fever, asthma, eczema, psoriasis, and arthritis. It can also be used to relieve digestive problems like constipation and diarrhea.

Comfrey Leaf Or Root

Comfrey leaf and/or root contains allantoin, a substance that helps to promote the healing of wounds and bruises.

Echinacea Herb & Root

Echinacea is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of infections and illnesses.

Some of the key medicinal properties of echinacea include:

• Antibacterial: Echinacea has been shown to kill a variety of bacteria, including staphylococcus and streptococcus. This makes it a great herb for treating infections.

• Anti-inflammatory: Echinacea can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help speed healing.

• Immune booster: Echinacea is known to boost the immune system, making it a great herb for preventing colds and other infections.

Ginger Root

Ginger is a medicinal herb that has many health benefits. It is a natural anti-inflammatory and can be used to treat pain and nausea. Ginger also has antioxidant properties and can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Goldenseal Leaf Or Root

Goldenseal is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which make it ideal for treating wounds and other skin infections. Goldenseal can also be used to treat respiratory infections, digestive problems, and other health issues.

Lavender Flowers

Lavender is a soothing and calming herb that has medicinal properties. It can be used to treat minor burns, sunburns, and skin irritations. Lavender is also helpful in treating anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

Myrrh Gum Powder

Myrrh Gum powder has many medicinal properties. It is a natural antiseptic and can be used to heal minor wounds and scratches. It is also a natural astringent, which means it can help to tighten the skin. Myrrh Gum powder can also be used as a lip balm or skin moisturizer.

Nettle Leaf

Nettle leaf is a common herb that has many medicinal properties. It is a natural antihistamine, and it can be used to treat allergies, asthma, and eczema. Nettle leaf is also a natural diuretic, so it can be used to help treat urinary tract infections.

Oregon Grape Root

Oregon grape root has many medicinal properties. It is a bitter herb that is used to stimulate the digestive system and improve liver function. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory and can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions.

Plantain Leaf

The plantain leaf has many medicinal properties. It is a natural antiseptic and can be used to treat minor wounds and scratches. It is also a natural pain reliever and can be used to relieve pain from headaches, toothaches, and other minor ailments.

Thyme Leaf

Thyme leaf is a powerful antiseptic that can be used to heal minor wounds and scratches. It is also a natural expectorant, making it a great choice for treating respiratory infections.

Yarrow Leaf and Yarrow Flowers

The medicinal properties of Yarrow include anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Yarrow can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It can also be used to heal minor wounds and scratches.

A Basic Salve Recipe Anyone Can Make

Making your own homemade salve is a great way to take control of the ingredients that go into it. This salve recipe is simple and easy and can be tailored to your specific needs.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil

• .5 ounces beeswax

• 1 tsp. vitamin E oil

• 5 drops of lavender essential oil

• 5 drops of tea tree essential oil

Combine the coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin E oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until melted.

Remove from heat and stir in the lavender and tea tree oils.. Pour into a jar or tin and let cool completely before using.

This recipe should yield about 1/2 cup of salve.

You're welcome to tailor this to your specific needs and use ingredients that are suitable for you. Plus, it's a fun project to do with friends or family!

What Are Popular Salve Recipes?

Making your own salve is a simple way to avoid these harsh chemicals and get the healing benefits of herbs directly onto your skin. These popular salve recipes are easy to follow and only require a few basic ingredients.

Herbal Healing Salve Recipe

This herbal healing salve recipe is popular because it includes ingredients that have healing properties for skin irritations. You can also add other ingredients, like essential oils, to customize the scent and therapeutic properties of the salve.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• .25 ounces beeswax

• 1 tsp. vitamin E oil

• 5 drops of lavender essential oil

• 5 drops of tea tree essential oil

Instructions:

1. Combine the coconut oil, beeswax, and vitamin E oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until melted.

2. Remove from heat and stir in the lavender and tea tree oils. Pour into a jar or tin and let cool completely before using.

Beeswax Salve Recipe

This beeswax salve recipe is popular because it is easy to make and is a great natural alternative to commercial skin care products. The ingredients are all-natural, and the recipe can be tweaked to suit your own personal preferences.

Ingredients:

• .25 ounces of beeswax pellets

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

• 1/4 cup of shea butter

• 10 drops of lavender oil

Instructions:

1. Melt the beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter in a double boiler.

2. Remove from heat and add the lavender oil.

3. Pour into a jar or tin and allow to cool.

Lavender Salve Recipe

This salve is popular because it is easy to make, smells great, and has a variety of uses. Lavender oil has a soothing effect on the skin, making it ideal for use on chapped skin, sunburns, and other minor skin irritations. The beeswax in the recipe helps to seal in moisture and provides a protective barrier against environmental toxins.

Ingredients:

• .25 ounces of beeswax pellets

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

• 2 tablespoons of lavender oil

Instructions:

1. Melt the beeswax in a double boiler or in the microwave.

2. Add the coconut oil and lavender oil and stir until melted.

3. Pour into a container and let cool.

Rosemary Salve Recipe

This Rosemary Salve Recipe is popular because it is a natural way to help keep skin looking healthy. Rosemary has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to soothe and protect the skin. This salve is also beneficial for relieving muscle pain and joint stiffness.

Ingredients:

-1/2 cup coconut oil

-1/4 cup beeswax pellets

-1 tablespoon dried rosemary leaves

Instructions:

1. Add the coconut oil and beeswax pellets to a small saucepan over low heat.

2. Stir until the ingredients have melted completely.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the dried rosemary leaves.

4. Pour the mixture into a jar or tin and allow it to cool completely before using.

Conclusion

Making your own salve is a simple way to avoid harsh chemicals and get the healing benefits of herbs directly onto your skin. These popular recipes are easy to follow and only require a few basic ingredients. You can customize the recipe to suit your own personal preferences by adding different essential oils or other ingredients.

If you're looking for a natural way to heal minor wounds and scratches, then check out Khela Herbs' salves today. Our all-natural salves are made with herbs that have healing properties, and they're perfect for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals. Plus, our salves come in a variety of scents, so you can find the perfect one for you.

Salve Recipe Related Questions

How do you thicken salve?

The easiest way to thicken salve is to add more beeswax. You can also try adding other ingredients like Shea butter or cocoa butter.

What oil is best for salve recipes?

There are a variety of oils that can be used in salve recipes. The most popular options include coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil. You can also try using other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil.

How do you make vegan salves?

To make vegan salves, you will need to use plant-based wax like soy wax or palm wax. You can also try using other ingredients like cocoa butter or shea butter.

What is the best container for storing salves?

The best containers for storing salves are small jars or tins. You can also try using lip balm tubes.

What can I use instead of beeswax in a salve recipe?

You can try using other plant-based waxes like soy wax or palm wax. You can also try using other ingredients like cocoa butter or shea butter.

What is the shelf life of a salve?

The shelf life of a salve depends on the ingredients used. If you use fresh herbs, then your salve will have a shorter shelf life. Shelf-stable ingredients like beeswax and essential oils will help to prolong the shelf life of your salve.