How to Make a Beautiful Balm

Herbal balms are often overlooked, yet they offer a host of benefits. Not only are they highly effective for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds, but they are also compact, shelf-stable, and safe for use across all age groups. Best of all, they're incredibly simple to make at home.

Choosing Your Herbs

For longevity, I recommend using dried herbs, as they help extend the shelf life of your balm. If you opt for fresh herbs, be sure to use your balm within 2 - 3 months to avoid spoilage.

Some of my favorite herbs and flowers for skincare include:

• Calendula, Rose, Chamomile, and Lavender – Gentle and soothing, ideal for nurturing skin.

• Plantain, Lemon Balm, and Neem – Excellent for combating infections, drying weeping wounds, and reducing inflammation.

• Ginger, Peppermint, and Chickweed – Great for their analgesic properties and pain relief.

  
  

Enhancing with Essential Oils

To boost the therapeutic properties of your balm, consider adding essential oils. Recommended options include:

• Thyme

• Tea Tree

• Frankincense

• Sandalwood

• Myrrh

For a 2 oz container, add approximately 10 drops of essential oil; for a 4 oz container, 20 drops is ideal.

Ingredients & Supplies

To get started, you’ll need:

• An oil of your choice (I prefer jojoba oil for its close resemblance to our skin’s natural sebum and its long shelf life)

• Dried herbs

• Beeswax

• Small containers or tins for storage

• A double boiler or crock pot for infusion

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a double boiler, add water to the bottom pot and place your herbs in the top pot.

2. Pour your carrier oil over the herbs until fully submerged.

3. Heat the water until nearly boiling, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally.

4. Allow the herbs to infuse for 2–3 hours. For a slower infusion, you may use a crock pot on the warm setting overnight.

5. Once infused, strain the oil using cheesecloth, a fine mesh strainer, or a nut milk bag. You may need to strain more than once for clarity.

6. Return to your double boiler to melt the beeswax. A typical ratio is 1 oz beeswax to 4 oz infused oil.

7. Once the beeswax has melted, stir in your strained herbal oil until fully blended.

8. Remove from heat. At this stage, add your essential oils, if desired, and mix well.

9. Pour the mixture into your prepared containers and allow it to cool and solidify.

   
   

Storage Tip: Store your finished balms in a cool, dry place. Keeping them in the refrigerator can further extend shelf life and preserve potency.

That's it! These are fantastic for travel, and make great gifts!

Enjoy!

Jody