Making salves & balms
Turning an infused oil into something you can keep in a tin.
Start with an infused oil
A salve is infused oil solidified with beeswax. Make or buy an herb-infused oil first — calendula, arnica and lavender are popular.
Melt your beeswax
Use a double boiler. Grated or pellet beeswax melts more evenly than a block. Start at roughly 1 part beeswax to 8 parts oil by weight.
Test consistency
Drop a small amount onto a cold plate. Too hard — add more oil. Too soft — add more wax. Adjust before pouring.
Add any extras
Once off the heat (but still liquid), stir in a few drops of essential oil if using. Work quickly — it sets fast.
Pour and set
Pour into small tins or glass jars while liquid. Leave undisturbed for 30–60 minutes. Don't move them while solidifying.
Label and store
Label with herb and date. Stored in a cool dark place, a good salve keeps 1–2 years. Discard if it smells off.
These are general preparation techniques — not treatment for any condition. Always consult a doctor before acting on anything you read here.