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DIY LAVENDER SALVE: A SOOTHING BALM FOR SKIN AND MIND

Lavender salve is a versatile and effective topical remedy that can be easily made at home. It offers a range of benefits, including: Skin healing: Soothes irritation, moisturizes dry skin, and can help heal acne, scrapes, and eczema; Stress relief: The calming aroma of lavender is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Making lavender salve is surprisingly simple. If you’ve followed along with our previous tutorials on calendula or cannabis salve, you’ll find many familiar steps. However, lavender offers its own unique set of benefits. Let’s get started on creating your own soothing lavender salve!

What is Lavender Salve?

Not familiar with salve? Simply put, a salve is a healing solution applied to the skin, which can take the form of creams, ointments, or balms. Typically, salves are thick, shelf-stable, and contain nourishing oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil.

In addition to a base oil (or a blend of them), salves usually incorporate natural waxes or butters to help bind the ingredients and give them a semi-solid consistency at room temperature. Beeswax is a popular binding agent due to its availability, ease of use (especially in pastille form), and ability to create smooth, cohesive results.

If you prefer a vegan alternative to beeswax, check the ingredient list below for recommended substitutions. When you incorporate lavender-infused oil (or lavender essential oil) into a salve recipe, you create a delightful lavender salve, enriched with the medicinal benefits of lavender.

Lavender-infused oil vs. lavender essential oils

When you glance at the concise ingredient list below, you’ll notice our preference for a blend of homemade lavender-infused oil and a dash of lavender essential oil in our lavender salve recipe.

But what’s the difference? Lavender-infused oil is made by steeping dried lavender flowers in a carrier oil of your choice for a period of time. This process allows the natural essential oils from the lavender to be drawn out and infused into the carrier oil, which is then strained. In contrast, lavender essential oils, often found in small bottles, are produced through a distillation extraction process, which is typically done on a large industrial scale. While some hobbyists use small distillation stills at home, it’s not the most common method for making essential oils.

We love using lavender-infused oil because it utilizes our homegrown lavender and adds a personal touch along with an extra boost of natural lavender scent to the salve. However, if you prefer, you can also create lavender salve using plain oil and essential oils. If you’d like to make lavender-infused oil for this salve recipe, check out our instructions for preparing homemade lavender oil, and then return to the recipe once it’s ready!

The Health Benefits of Lavender

  • The soothing yet cheerful aroma of lavender is both calming and uplifting, making it a favorite for promoting relaxation. Scientific studies have shown that lavender can effectively reduce anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia, helping individuals find peace in their daily lives.
  • Beyond its calming effects, lavender boasts powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, making it a versatile ingredient in natural remedies. It is well-known for deterring pest insects such as mosquitoes and flies, which is why many natural insect repellents include lavender in their formulations.
  • Additionally, lavender has remarkable healing capabilities. It can relieve pain and itching while promoting new cell growth, aiding in the repair of damaged skin tissue and healing wounds. In her book Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide, Rosemary Gladstar highlights lavender’s effectiveness in treating a variety of infections, including staph, strep, colds, flus, ringworm, and yeast infections. She also notes its ability to ease headaches and migraines, further showcasing its extensive benefits.
  • With its multitude of uses, lavender is not just a delightful fragrance; it’s a powerful ally in both physical and emotional well-being.

What can lavender salve be used for?

While lavender is often utilized in culinary and medicinal applications, its true gift lies in its ability to soothe our skin and nerves. You may have noticed that lavender features prominently in many natural skincare products, and it’s not just for its delightful fragrance! When applied topically, lavender can alleviate, heal, or treat a wide range of skin issues. Enter homemade lavender salve!

This versatile salve can be applied to irritated skin to reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. It effectively addresses conditions such as rashes, bug bites, burns (including sunburn), acne, scrapes, eczema, stings, scars, and psoriasis. I find it particularly soothing after shaving, helping to prevent or treat razor burn, and it also calms the small rashes I sometimes get from brushing against certain plants in the garden.

Beyond treating ailments, homemade lavender salve is an excellent remedy for everyday issues like chapped lips, rough elbows and feet, or dry hands, providing essential moisture. After a long day of gardening, I love applying it to my dry, cracked cuticles!

If you’re looking for a natural way to unwind, simply dab some lavender salve on your temples, neck, wrists, and under your nose, then take a few deep breaths. The calming aromatherapy properties of lavender can help you relax, enhance your meditation or yoga practice, or prepare for a restful night’s sleep. I keep a tin on my bedside nightstand and often reach for it in the middle of the night when my mind is racing.

Lavender oil is generally safe for children and babies, making homemade lavender salve ideal for addressing issues like diaper rash or cradle cap. In fact, one study even found that lavender oil may help alleviate colic! Just remember never to use undiluted essential oils directly on the skin, and always double-check the safety of your other salve ingredients for use with infants.

Finally, lavender salve can also assist in shrinking skin ulcers, softening the appearance of scars, and reducing the swelling and discomfort associated with varicose veins.

If you’re skeptical, take a look at these testimonials from our satisfied customers who have experienced remarkable results with our Homestead and Chill organic lavender salve. People have found relief from various skin issues, including cystic acne and persistent large rashes that resisted other treatments. I am genuinely delighted and humbled by this positive feedback. It reinforces my commitment to helping individuals lead their most naturally healthy lives—this is the very reason I started this journey!

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the process of making your very own lavender salve! Here’s a simple guide to creating a soothing, effective salve at home.

HOMEMADE LAVENDER SALVE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS FOR LAVENDER SALVE

Lavender-Infused Oil: 1 cup (8 ounces)

  • OR 1 cup of your preferred carrier oil (like jojoba, olive, sweet almond, sunflower, or coconut oil) with additional lavender essential oils. To help you choose, check out our article on lavender oils, which details the unique benefits of various carrier oils.

Beeswax Pastilles: 3 to 4 tablespoons (approximately 1 ounce if using shaved, block, or other forms of beeswax)

  • Note: If you decide to add shea butter, you can use only 3 level tablespoons of beeswax. If you skip the shea butter, use 4 tablespoons of beeswax.
  • Vegan Alternatives: Consider soy wax or candelilla wax.

Lavender Essential Oils (EOs):

  • When using lavender-infused oil as your base, add about 20-25 drops of organic lavender essential oil per cup of oil for a delightful scent that isn’t overpowering.
  • If you’re using only essential oils, you can add up to 12 drops of lavender EOs per fluid ounce of carrier oil (up to 96 drops per cup). This is the maximum recommended amount based on a safe dilution ratio of 2%. It’s best to start with half that amount and adjust according to your scent preference.

Optional Ingredients:

  • Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: 2 tablespoons
    • This adds rich moisture and essential nutrients to your salve.
  • Other Essential Oils: Add a few drops of complementary essential oils, such as chamomile, rose, pink grapefruit, lemon, rosemary, sweet orange, ylang ylang, bergamot, geranium, or sandalwood. Experiment with different blends to create a custom scent, each with its unique benefits.

    These ingredients come together to create a soothing and healing lavender salve perfect for various skin needs!

    Other Supplies Needed

    Double Boiler:

    • You can use a traditional double boiler or create a makeshift version. For example, place a smaller pot or a glass Pyrex or stainless steel bowl on top of a saucepan filled with water.
    • Using a double boiler is crucial to prevent overheating the volatile lavender essential oils, which can diminish their healing properties.

    Storage Containers:

    • Small glass jars or salve tins are needed for storing your finished product.
    • Common choices include 2-ounce amber glass jars for personal use or gifts, and larger 4-ounce jars. For easy shipping, consider using 2-ounce salve tins.

      Recipe Yield

      • The quantities provided will yield just over 1 cup of finished salve (approximately 10 ounces, or five 2-ounce tins).
      • Feel free to scale the recipe up or down as needed. A general guideline for salve is to use about 1 part beeswax/butter to approximately 4-7 parts oil. A higher beeswax-to-oil ratio results in a firmer salve, while using less beeswax creates a softer consistency.

      Note on Quality Ingredients

      • When making salve, herbal oils, or other homemade body care products, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opting for certified organic options is even better.
      • Aim to create a healing medicinal product. For instance, use virgin, unrefined, cold-pressed oils whenever possible. Avoid lesser-quality oils that are extracted with solvents, which can introduce contaminants like hexane—known to be a neurological toxin.
      • Be cautious with non-organic essential oils; as the natural oils in the plant become concentrated in essential oils, so do any pesticides or contaminants present on the plant.

      Using high-quality, organic ingredients ensures that your lavender salve is not only effective but also safe for your skin. Enjoy the process of creating a natural remedy that promotes healing and well-being!

      INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAKING LAVENDER SALVE

      Prepare Storage Containers:

      • Have your salve tins, glass jars, or any storage containers ready for the lavender salve.

      Set Up Double Boiler:

      • In the top portion of a double boiler (or a makeshift double boiler), combine 1 cup of lavender-infused oil (or your chosen carrier oil) and 3 to 4 level tablespoons of beeswax (refer to the sliding scale notes above).
      • If you’re using it, also add 2 tablespoons of shea butter at this point.

      Add Water:

      • Fill the bottom portion of the double boiler with enough water so that the top bowl or pot is resting in the water. This helps create a gentle heat for melting.

      Heat the Mixture:

      • Place the double boiler on the stovetop and heat it over medium-low heat. It’s important to avoid overheating the lavender oil more than necessary to melt the beeswax.

      Melt and Combine:

      • Monitor the mixture closely and stir it routinely until the beeswax (and shea butter, if added) is completely melted. Once fully melted, stir to combine thoroughly.

      Remove from Heat:

      • Immediately take the mixture off the heat once everything is melted and well combined.

      Add Essential Oils:

      • After removing the salve from heat, add the lavender essential oils. Essential oils are volatile and dissipate quickly when exposed to high temperatures, so it’s important to add them at this stage. Whisk the mixture to ensure even distribution.

      Pour into Containers:

      • While the mixture is still hot, carefully pour the liquid lavender salve into your prepared containers. If it starts to solidify while you’re filling the containers, place it back on medium-low heat until it liquifies again.

      Cool and Harden:

      • Set the filled lavender salve containers aside with the lids off, allowing them to fully cool and harden.

      Enjoy Your Salve:

        • Once cooled and set, enjoy your homemade lavender salve for healthy, moisturized skin! Use clean fingers or a salve spoon to collect a small amount and apply as needed. Remember, a little goes a long way!

        Feel free to customize your salve with different essential oils or carrier oils to suit your personal preferences. Happy crafting!

        CONCLUSION

        I hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to create your own healing homemade lavender salve! It’s a personal favorite of ours and makes for a thoughtful gift for loved ones, whether for a special occasion or just because. For storage, keep your salve containers in a cool, dark place. I like to keep one accessible for daily use while storing the others in a cabinet. Homemade lavender salve can last for several years, although its medicinal potency may gradually diminish over time. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below! And once you’ve made your own, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to share this post with others. Thank you for reading!

        THE 12 BEST BRA FOR SIDE AND BACK FAT

        We all have a little back fat, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of, but there’s an art to selecting a bra form that won’t dig in or highlight an area you’re not confident in. We researched the 12 best bras for back fat to ensure they’re not only smoothing but also comfortable and supportive for everyday wear. The best bras should be snug enough to adequately support your bust, but not so tight that skin spills out on either side. Creating a smooth silhouette in any top or dress can increase your confidence when walking out in a new outfit or attempting a look that is a little out of your comfort zone. 

        Bali 3P66 Front Close Underwire Bra

        This Bali bra is made of nylon and spandex and provides comfort. It delivers comfort and shaping while maintaining fit and support. This front-closure bra for back fat coverage is simple to secure and features a broader back for a soothing appearance. It also offers extra side panel width to help control underarm fat. Many reviewers have noted that the light foam cups provide additional lift and support for comfort, while the classic lining keeps the cups soft and smooth against the skin. 

        This bra is said to be easy to fasten and provide strong support, which is suitable for those with big busts. 

        Spanx Reversible Comfort Bra

        This medium-support bra is incredibly comfortable and flattering, thanks to its crop top style and smoothing, flexible material. We found that it worked for both larger and smaller chests, and while the design is simple, we appreciated the comfort that the lack of underwire provided. Many reviewers have praised this product, claiming that it provides great support and is pleasant to wear all day. People are just annoyed because of the awful design.

        Leonisa No Bulge Bra

        With the Leonisa No Bulge Bra, you won’t have to worry about underarm bulges or back fat. It has flexible side boning and a longline underbust band to gently and firmly support your breasts. It is constructed of 87% polyamide and 13% elastane, providing a silky feel with hugging support. This dependable back-fat-reducing bra features 4-level adjustable back straps for a secure fit. You can mix it with fitting tops because its silhouette under clothing is ideal for special occasions or everyday use. Among these items, this is the finest because it offers exceptional support. 

        Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette

        Sloggi’s characteristic soft fabric results in some of the most comfortable bras on the market. With a great stretch fabric and no seams, it had all the makings of one of the finest bras for back fat, so we had to put it to the test. The second-skin-like claims are correct, and the bra is exceptionally soft, elastic, and easy to wear. Unbelievably light, second-skin is surely the proper description when it comes to this bra since you’ll easily forget you’ve got it on. It slips on easily and has no fastenings, resulting in an extremely smooth finish. However, the size range of this bra is not broad enough.

        Delimira X-Shaped Back Support Posture Bra 

        Bras provide support, but do they help your posture? Delimira’s high-back bra for back fat achieves this while also enhancing your body confidence. The X-shaped crossover design at the back provides back support while also correcting your posture. Its wire-free, non-padded design, cool comfort cups, and thin elastic lining make it suitable for all-day use. This high-control full-coverage bra is composed of polyamide and spandex and has a front hook and eye closure for easy access. The straps can be adjusted up to three different positions for a good fit.

        Figleaves Smoothing Sweetheart

        Some bras are designed to show off, while others are designed to work their magic behind your garments, sitting quietly but doing just what you require. This is the latter. It’s undeniably comfy, with second-skin soft microfiber, a light foam inner, and smooth cups to keep your breasts secure. The bra also features a flattering neckline and a delicate gold charm design, making it ideal for both casual and formal usage. The molded type cup is available in four colorways, providing an option for every look. It is ideal for giving a rounded bust shape and works especially well beneath fitting t-shirts. 

        HSIA Minimizer Bra 

        The HSIA Minimizer Bra for Back Fat is designed to reduce breast volume optically rather than physically, resulting in a smaller and smoother look. The translucent mesh at the front of the cup gives the appearance of less coverage while firmly constraining the breast. The sturdy mesh band complements your breasts’ natural form while providing a comfortable fit. The unlined and underwire cups provide full support for DDD cups while also providing a natural lift without the use of padding. The smooth, brushed narrow straps can be adjusted to relieve pressure. Reviewers have noted that the U-shaped leotard back gives additional support and stability while also preventing the straps from slipping.

        Marks And Spencer Seamless Non-Wired Bralettes 3 Pack

        These are excellent value in a set of three and eliminate the need for a hook and eye closure for a smooth finish. They are also suitable for low-impact sports and provide support without wires or padding for a natural shape. Although the bra is available in sizes up to XXL, customer evaluations indicate that it runs small, making it better suited to smaller cup sizes. This bralette, with its non-wired construction, could also serve as one of the best sleep bras if you need mild support when relaxing or sleeping. This is a terrific price and comes in a 3-pack, making it ideal for stocking up.

        DOBREVA Push-Up Bra 

        The DOBREVA Push-Up Bra features plunge pushup pads that provide excellent support and a stunning cleavage appearance, making it suitable for women with little or large busts. The ultrasoft fabric is as soft as butter. This longline bra for back fat has a well-fitting band for maximum comfort and side support, resulting in a seamless back-smoothing effect. The wireless bralette is hassle-free, with half-way adjustable straps, snaps, and a pull-on back clasp. Many reviews state that the pullover lounge bra is suitable for everyday wear, sports, workouts, and business. 

        Runderwear Easy-on Running Bra

        If you’re looking for a high-support sports bra that will accommodate larger breast sizes without leaving you spilling out the sides and back, this could be a nice alternative. It’s specifically intended to envelop your bust, with molded cups to keep your breasts in place and limit spilling, and it’s wire-free for comfort and no digging. Many women with large busts, or those looking for the best bras for back fat, choose the finest sports bras for everyday wear whenever possible since they provide excellent support. If you want to find a bra that prevents bouncing tits in a sports bra

        Felina Paramour Marvelous Side Smoothing T-Shirt Bra 

        The Felina Paramour Marvelous Side Smoothing T-Shirt Bra is a faultless underwire T-shirt bra that provides full coverage. This side and back-smoothing bra has a stylish style. It boasts a unique edge design with a power mesh band that absorbs moisture, a soft, cushiony, and lightweight fabric and foam-lined lightweight contour cups that help with breast covering while providing ideal support and comfort. According to multiple reviews, it boasts fully adjustable stretch straps, a leotard back, and a hook and eye clasp.

        Ahh By Rhonda Shear Women’s Generation Bra 

        The Ahh By Rhonda Shear Women’s Generation Bra features two layers and a seamless finish. It provides excellent support without irritating annoying hooks or cables. You may now dance, go for a walk, or spend the day out in complete comfort because this bra will supply you with all you need. It also includes replaceable padding for extra support. It adds stretch with broad straps that are gentle on your shoulders and back. Reviewers believe the wide back band for back fat coverage is smooth, and the ruched wide center front provides additional bust support.

        Conclusion

        Finding the right bra to reduce side and back fat can be a game changer for anyone looking for comfort, support, and a beautiful silhouette. With developments in lingerie design and technology, there are now several alternatives to address these specific problems. The greatest bra for side and back fat, whether through clever shaping panels, strategic construction, or specialist fabrics, will allow you to confidently embrace your curves. So say goodbye to self-consciousness and hello to a more streamlined and sculpted you. Experience the transformational power of a well-fitting bra and elevate your level of comfort and style. Remember that the appropriate bra can make a huge impact in reducing side and back fat.