Salves

Herbal salves are topical herbal preparations that have a soft consistency to be easily spreadable and they are one of my favorite ways to use herbs! They are similar to herbal balms because they includes wax (I use beeswax but some herbalists prefer carnauba wax), but they have a higher infused oil content than balms. Salves absorbs quickly into skin and have a greasier consistency compared to balms (due to their higher oil content). They’re designed for topical application to encourage wound healing, and/or offer relief from eczema, skin irritations, dry skin, or muscle pain/joint discomfort. Salves are typically packaged in jars or tubes.

They are pretty simply to make and it’s really nice to have complete control over what ingredients and herbs are in the preparation. The main ingredient is an infused oil. Preparing salves and balms is pretty similar – they both start with an infused oil but have a slightly different wax ratio. You’ll need a double boiler and containers for the finished salve.

Preparing Herbal Salves

• Strain already-prepared infused oil carefully so no plant material remains.
• Bring water to a boil in the lower part of a double boiler, then add proper amount of beeswax (according to recipe) to the top pot.
• Add infused oil and stir constantly as the beeswax melts.
• Once the beeswax has melted and the mixture is completely combined, remove from heat.
• If using essential oils, add now. Use up to 100 drops per 1 cup of infused oil.
• Pour into labeled containers and allow to completely cool before capping.

Herbs for Salves

There are so many herb choices for salves! It is truly dependent on the desired effect and/or fragrance. Great vulnerary options include:

• Chickweed
• Calendula
• Marshmallow Root
• Plantain
• Yarrow
• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Violet
• Gotu Kola
• Aloe Vera (also antimicrobial and analgesic)

Salves can be useful for all kind of ailments, so consider herbs other than vulneraries too! Other possibilities include antimicrobial herbs like Bee Balm or Lemon Balm, and analgesics for pain relief like Arnica (also a vulnerary), Cayenne, or Willow Bark.