Calendula is the great skin herb — anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-regenerating. This salve heals minor cuts, burns, eczema, diaper rash, dry cracked skin, and chapped lips. It is completely free of synthetic ingredients and keeps for a year.
What You Need
- 1 cup calendula-infused oil (see tips below)
- 1 oz (28g) beeswax, grated or pellets
- Optional: 10 drops lavender essential oil, 10 drops tea tree essential oil
Method
- Make calendula-infused oil first: pack a jar with dried calendula flowers. Cover completely with a carrier oil (olive, sweet almond, or jojoba). Cap and leave in a warm, sunny window for 4–6 weeks. Alternatively, use a double boiler method: warm oil and flowers together at very low heat (100°F) for 4–8 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth, pressing out every drop.
- In a double boiler, melt beeswax gently. Add infused oil and stir until fully combined.
- Test consistency: drip a small amount on a cold plate. Too soft — add more wax. Too hard — add more oil.
- Remove from heat. Add essential oils if using.
- Pour immediately into tins or jars before it sets.
- Allow to cool completely undisturbed before capping.
Tips & Notes
- Use dried flowers only — fresh flowers have water content that can cause mold.
- For a softer lip balm consistency, use less beeswax. For a harder salve for cracked heels, use more.
- Shea butter can replace some of the oil for a creamier texture.
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