Salve, Balm, Ointment

A salve is a way to take the medicinal properties of an herbal infused oil and make them into a solid form for slower absorption over a longer period of time.

Salves, balms, and ointments are all made with the same ingredients, the difference is the amount of beeswax added resulting in different consistencies. Ointments are the softest, having a toothpaste like consistency. Salves have a bit more beeswax but are still a soft application while balms are more waxier and thick. The more oily the consistency the quicker it will absorb into the body.

Instructions

These are the basic instructions for a salve, decrease or increase the amount of beeswax to make an ointment or balm.

1 cup herbal oil
1 oz beeswax
Optional: essential oil

Place oil and beeswax in a double boiler or pan over low heat until the beeswax is melted. Stir occasionally and keep watch that the oil doesn't burn.

Remove from heat and add optional essential oil at this time, stirring thoroughly to incorporate. The scent should be strong but not overpowering, it will dissipate a bit as the salve cools.

Pour into prepared containers and let the salve cool and harden completely before covering with the lid. Label and store in a dark, cool location.

Salves should last for several months to a year depending on heat and moisture exposure. When it loses color and smells rancid, discard.

Example of expired salve

Application

Salves are used to heal, protect, nourish, and moisturize. They can be used for any issues such as respiratory and sinus support, all types of first aid, cuts, wounds, bruises, sprains, breaks, burns, rashes, pain and inflammation, etc.

Apply liberally to area of concern. Once absorbed into skin apply again. Continue until no longer needed.
Always apply before bed so the salve can slowly absorb throughout the evening when the body does its healing and detoxing.
Use gauze to cover the area and then wrap with a cloth bandage or wear clothing that doesn’t matter if oil gets on it.
Pour into lip balm containers for purse, portable first aid kits and ease of use (great for littles!). I had a "do it myself" child who got plenty of bumps and bruises that this worked perfectly for.

Balms absorb the slowest and not as deep, they are used more for surface protection and nourishment. While a salve or ointment will slowly absorb into the body.

Herbal Oil Blends

When using more than one herb for an oil you can either create an herbal oil using a blend of individual herbs that have been mixed together or combine single herbal oils for the blend.

Example: Burn salve calls for 2 parts comfrey and 1 part calendula, lavender, St. John's wort and chamomile. I can mix 2 Tbsp comfrey and 1 Tbsp all other herbs together then follow the instructions to make an herbal oil or I can use 2 Tbsp comfrey oil and 1 Tbsp all other herbal oils and mix them together.

Container Preparation

Any container with a lid can be used to store salves in. For on the go salves you probably want to have plastic so they don't break. Smaller containers, those that do not allow light in and glass will have a longer shelf life. Here are a few ideas:

Purchase new containers in a variety of sizes and material; plastic, glass, tins, etc. These can be found at dollar stores, hobby shops, kitchen stores or online.
Repurpose used containers, making sure to clean and disinfect. Old cosmetic containers, grocery store jars and tins, etc.
Use Mason jars and glass kitchen containers.