Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and nothing in this article should be taken as medical advice. Please talk to your doctor before using any of the herbs and/or remedies mentioned in this article.
Herbal healing salves are a type of topical ointment made from a variety of herbs and other natural ingredients. They can be used to treat a wide range of skin conditions including rashes, eczema, burns, scrapes, and insect bites.
Salves are a “pinch of this and a smidge of that” type of remedy. They are easy to make, relatively inexpensive, and only require a few household ingredients that you probably already have.
This post will show you how to make several different types of herbal healing salves – and explain exactly what they are.
What Are Herbal Healing Salves?
In short, herbal healing salves are ointments made from plant material that can be used to soothe minor cuts, burns, and scrapes. Unlike other ointments on the market, herbal healing salves do not contain any synthetic materials or chemicals.
The active ingredients in herbal healing salves work to soothe the skin and promote regeneration. The majority of herbal healing salves contain a base of olive oil or beeswax, which helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin.
Many also contain essential oils, which offer additional benefits depending on the specific oil that is used. For example, lavender oil is often used in herbal healing salves because it is known for its calming properties.
Herbal healing salves can be used as needed throughout the day to treat various skin conditions. If you have a rash or other skin condition that is causing discomfort, simply apply a small amount of the salve to the affected area and massage it in until it has been fully absorbed.
For best results, reapply the salve every few hours as needed.
What Oils to Use for Herbal Healing Salves
Herbal healing salves are a great way to soothe irritated skin, speed up the healing process of cuts and scrapes, and moisturize dry skin. They can be used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
But in order for herbal healing salves to be effective, you need to choose the right oil base. The oil you choose will determine the therapeutic properties of your salve. Different oils have different properties that can be beneficial for different skin conditions.
1. Wheat Germ Oil
Wheat germ oil is one of the best oils to use for herbal healing salves because it is high in vitamins A, D, and E. It is also a good choice for people with sensitive skin as it is non-irritating and won’t clog pores. Wheat germ oil can be used to treat psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
2. Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil is another good choice for herbal healing salves. It is high in vitamins A and E, and it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin. Apricot kernel oil can be used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
3. Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is a lighter oil that is easily absorbed by the skin. It is high in vitamin E, and it has both emollient and moisturizing properties that make it an excellent choice for dry or sensitive skin. Sweet almond oil can be used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
4. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil closely resembles sebum, the natural oil our skin produces. This makes it an excellent choice for all skin types, as it helps to balance oily skin and reduce breakouts while still providing moisture for dry skin. Jojoba oil can be used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
Which Herbs to Use for Healing Salves
Some of the most common herbs that are used in herbal healing salves include calendula, chamomile, plantain, comfrey, and yarrow. Each of these herbs has its own unique set of properties that can provide a variety of different benefits for the skin.
For example, calendula is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to speed up the healing process.
Chamomile is known for its calming effect on the skin, while plantain is known for its ability to soothe itchiness and irritation.
Tools and Ingredients Needed to Make Herbal Healing Salves
Recipes vary depending on which formulation you’re making and how potent you want the salve to be.
In general, though, this is what you will need:
- 1/2 cup of carrier oil (coconut oil, olive oil, etc. – as described above.)
- 2 tablespoons of beeswax
- 1/4 cup of dried herbs
- 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil (optional)
- A small jar or container for storage
- A double boiler or saucepan
- A wooden spoon
- A piece of cheesecloth or coffee filter
- A clean, dry funnel
Basic Instructions for Making Herbal Salves
- Place the carrier oil and beeswax in the top part of the double boiler.
- Heat over low heat until the beeswax has melted. Remove from heat and add in the dried herbs.
- Stir until well combined and let sit for 10 minutes so that the mixture can infuse.
- Strain the mixture through the cheesecloth or coffee filter into a medium bowl. This will remove any plant matter from the salve.
- Add in the vitamin E oil (if using) and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into your storage jar or container and let cool completely before using.
To use, simply rub a small amount onto your skin as needed. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Simple Salve Recipes to Follow
Salves can be used to soothe a wide range of skin concerns, from dryness and itchiness to inflammation and bruising. And best of all, they're incredibly easy to make at home. Here are some simple recipes to try.
Peppermint Salve
There are many reasons why you should make a peppermint herbal healing salve. For one, peppermint is a very versatile herb that can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments. It is also very easy to grow and cultivate, so you can be sure that you will have a ready supply of fresh peppermint leaves whenever you need them.
Additionally, peppermint has a refreshing and cooling effect on the skin, making it an ideal treatment for burns, insect bites, and other skin irritations.
Here’s an easy recipe.
Chamomile Restorative Healing Salve
Chamomile has long been used for its calming and healing properties. The herb is known to be gentle and effective in treating a variety of ailments, from upset stomachs to skin irritations.
Chamomile salves are a convenient way to reap the benefits of this versatile herb. The salves can be applied topically to the skin or taken internally to treat a variety of conditions. Chamomile salves are easy to make at home, and they offer a natural and cost-effective alternative to over-the-counter treatments.
Chamomile salves are appropriate for treating a wide variety of conditions. The herb is commonly used to soothe skin irritations, such as rashes, sunburns, and insect bites.
The sedating effects of chamomile make it an ideal treatment for insomnia and anxiety. When applied topically, chamomile has been shown to speed the healing of wounds and scars.
Follow this recipe.
Lavender Healing Salve
Lavender has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. Today, lavender oil is still prized for its healing properties, and is commonly used in aromatherapy and massage.
Lavender oil can also be used to make a simple healing salve.
The salve can be used to soothe dry skin, minor cuts and scrapes, and even insect bites. In addition to its healing properties, the lavender salve will also leave your skin feeling soft and smelling great.
Try this recipe.
Geranium and Calendula Healing Salve
Geranium and Calendula Healing Salve is an all-natural salve that can be used to heal cuts, scrapes, and other skin irritations.
To use the salve, simply apply it to the affected area and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. The calendula will help to speed up the healing process, while the beeswax will create a barrier that will protect the skin from further irritation.
Here is a recipe.
Plantain Healing Salve
Making your own plantain healing salve is easy, and it's a great way to use up any plantain leaves you have left over from foraging.
Simply collect a few fresh plantain leaves and chop them into small pieces. Then, add the chopped leaves to a base oil of your choice (olive oil or coconut oil are both good options).
Finally, add some beeswax to the mixture and stir until everything is combined. That's it! Your plantain healing salve is now ready to use.
To use, simply apply a small amount to the affected area as needed. The salve will help to soothe insect stings, bites, and other skin irritations. For best results, store your salve in a cool, dark place and use it within six months.
Use this recipe for full instructions.
Dandelion Healing Salve
Dandelions are more than just a nuisance weed – they can also be used to make a healing salve that is perfect for treating a variety of skin conditions. The first step is to harvest dandelion heads that have not been sprayed with pesticides.
Once you have collected a few heads, allow them to dry in the sun for a day or two. Once they are dry, grind the heads into a powder using a coffee grinder or food processor. The next step is to mix the dandelion powder with some carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil. Stir until the mixture forms a paste, then apply it to the affected area of skin.
For best results, leave the salve on for at least 30 minutes before washing it off. Repeat this process once or twice a day until your condition improves.
Here’s the full recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a natural way to treat your skin conditions, then you may want to consider using herbal healing salves. These ointments are made from a variety of different herbs and other natural ingredients that work together to soothe the skin and promote regeneration. They can be used as needed throughout the day and are safe for all ages to use.
Salves are easy to make and can be customized for your specific needs. Consider adding some of these herbal ingredients to your next salve-making session!
You May Also Like:
