Easy step-by-step instructions for a beginner level Lavender Healing Salve. This salve is perfect for small bites, wounds or minor skin irritations.
Fields of lavender – whether in person or gazing upon pictures over the internet, is perhaps the most relaxing sight. I’m almost certain most people would agree. Lavender is a dream to grow because it can be used for so many things.
One of my dreams is to have a huge field of lavender – unfortunately here in Arizona the soil can be quite a nightmare to work with. While I have tried to grow lavender multiple times, it hasn’t always fared in my favor.
Not only can lavender be used to make this beautiful salve, it can be used in cold process soap. Lavender essential oil is wonderful for hair, skin support or even making your own body wash. Lavender buds make wonderful sachets, too!
Until I can grow my dream of lavender fields, I pick up organic lavender at Mountain Rose Herbs. Why make lavender salve? Lavender is believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to heal minor burns and bug bites.
Onto the Lavender Salve!
How to Make Lavender Salve
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Gather up the following items to make your own lavender salve at home:
Ingredients:
- Lavender buds – one cup
- Olive oil or sweet almond oil – 2 C.
- Beeswax pellets – 1/4 C. (2 oz)
- 2 oz tins to hold your salve (this recipe makes 4-5 tins at 2 oz each)
Directions for making Lavender Salve:
Step 1: Infuse your oil
Before making the actual salve, you’ll want to make the lavender infused oil. You can do this either of two ways – long or short. While I prefer the long way, if time is of a limit for you, then by all means, do the short way.
The short way won’t result in lavender oil that is as concentrated and there is a risk in burning the lavender buds.
Long way: Place 1 C of lavender buds in your pint jar. Cover with 2 C. of either olive oil or sunflower oil. Place the lid on the jar and set the jar in a sunny window, shaking daily for 30-45 days. Once you strain the lavender buds you will have lavender infused oil.
Short way: While I have done this infusion method, it’s not my favorite. It’s actually very easy to burn the oils this way because the water can get a little too hot. However, if you are careful and keep a close eye on the infusion it can be quicker if you are in a time crunch.
Use a pan with a heavy bottom. Fill your pint jar with 1 C of lavender buds, and 2 C of olive or sweet almond oil. Cap the jar tightly. Place in the pan, and fill the pan/pot with water to about 1/2 of the height of the jar (being careful not to get water in the jar).. Turn the burner on low and allow the water to heat the oil for several hours. Then strain the lavender buds out for lavender oil.
Step 2: Melt your oils and beeswax
In a double broiler, combine 1 C of lavender infused oil with 2 oz (1/4 C) of beeswax pellets. Place your mason jar in a pan of cool water just a few inches deep – try to avoid getting water in the jar. Melt the beeswax into the oil.
*For a harder salve, add more beeswax, or work with the ratio to find a combination that works for you.
Step 3: Add essential oil
Once the beeswax is completely melted into the oil, remove from the heat to cool it down. Add your essential oil (50 drops per cup is 1% dilution rate). If you are looking for a stronger salve, you can add 100 drops for 2% dilution. It will be completely up to you and what you feel comfortable with.
(Refer to this dilution chart for more information. Once your salve hardens, the scent may dissipate more so keep that in mind if you are looking for a stronger salve).
Step 4: Pour the oil into tins
Very carefully pour the oil into your 2 oz tins. Use a scale to gauge each tin as you pour – once it is poured, make sure you allow it to sit, undisturbed. If you move it around while it is cooling you will ruin the top of the salve and it won’t be as pretty.
Enjoy your salve – it’s perfect to gift to family or friends. If you do any hiking, bring one in your ecarry ruck pack so you have one on hand in times of an emergency. There are so many wonderful ways to use this salve here are just a few:
- Great for alleviating a sunburn
- Wonderful for soothing small bites and cuts
- Opt to use in times of stress in order to induce relaxation
- Rub on your neck to alleviate spring allergies
- Improve rough/dry patches of skin that need a little help
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