best lip balm for psoriasis

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!

        How to use Pure Aloe Vera Gel for skin

        Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Its gel, a transparent substance found inside the leaves, is known for its soothing and healing properties. Pure aloe vera gel contains no added ingredients, making it an ideal natural remedy for a variety of conditions and ailments. 

        This article provides you with a complete step-by-step guide on how to use pure aloe vera gel for skin  and some useful tips to DIY aloe vera gel at home. Keep scrolling!

        Benefits of Pure Aloe Vera Gel for skin

        Aloe vera gel, derived from the succulent leaves of the aloe vera plant, is a versatile substance with a rich history of medicinal and cosmetic use spanning centuries. Its remarkable properties make it a valuable asset for skincare enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.

        At its core, pure aloe vera gel is a powerhouse of skin-loving components, boasting an impressive lineup of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that bestow a myriad of benefits upon the skin. Among its many advantages, here’s a closer look at some of the remarkable ways in which aloe vera gel can enhance your skincare routine:

        Moisturization and Hydration

        Aloe vera gel’s natural humectant properties mean that it excels at drawing moisture into the skin and locking it in. This innate ability to attract and retain water makes it an outstanding moisturizer, quenching the thirst of dry, parched skin and effectively addressing issues like flakiness.

        Reduces inflammation and redness

        The gel is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory capabilities, effectively taming redness and reducing skin inflammation. This quality is particularly valuable for those contending with skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, where inflammation is a key concern.

        Promotes wound healing

        Aloe vera gel has demonstrated its prowess in the realm of wound healing by stimulating the growth of new skin cells. Additionally, it has the potential to minimize the appearance of scars, promoting a smoother and more even complexion.

        Soothing Sunburn Relief

        The cooling and soothing properties of aloe vera gel make it an exceptional remedy for sunburned skin. It can alleviate the discomfort, redness, and inflammation associated with excessive sun exposure, offering much-needed relief after a day in the sun.

        Soothes sunburn

        A study conducted by the International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy found that the application of aloe vera gel on burns resulted in faster healing times and reduced pain compared to standard burn care. While not a substitute for sunscreen, it can complement sun protection measures and contribute to maintaining healthy skin in sun-exposed areas.

        How to use Pure Aloe Vera Gel for skin

        Ensure you have a pure and high-quality aloe vera gel product. You can either extract gel directly from an aloe vera plant or purchase a commercially prepared, 100% pure aloe vera gel from a reputable brand. Avoid products that contain added colors, fragrances, or other unnecessary additives.

        Before applying aloe vera gel to your face or a larger area of your skin, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of gel to a discrete area, such as the inside of your wrist, and wait for 24-48 hours to check for any adverse reactions or allergies.

        Moisturizer

        Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to your face and body as a natural moisturizer. It hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for all skin types. You can use it as a standalone moisturizer or mix a small amount with your regular moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.

        Sunburn Relief

        Aloe vera is renowned for its soothing properties, making it an excellent remedy for sunburn. Apply a generous amount of pure aloe vera gel to sunburned areas for relief from pain, redness, and inflammation. Keep the gel in the refrigerator for added cooling relief.

        Acne Treatment

        Aloe vera gel’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it beneficial for acne-prone skin. Apply a small amount to blemishes or acne-prone areas to reduce redness and inflammation. Use it as a spot treatment by applying a dab of aloe vera gel directly onto pimples.

        Face Mask

        Create a hydrating and soothing face mask by mixing pure aloe vera gel with ingredients like honey or yogurt. Apply the mixture to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and rinse off with lukewarm water. This can help rejuvenate and brighten your skin.

        Lip balm

        Blend pure aloe vera gel with a few drops of your preferred essential oil, not only for a delightful fragrance but also for its potential additional skin benefits. This homemade aloe vera lip balm will keep your lips moisturized, soft, and protected from dryness, especially in challenging environmental conditions.

        Potential side effects

        While pure aloe vera gel is generally safe for most people when applied topically, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects, particularly for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Some individuals may experience skin irritation, redness, or itching as a reaction to aloe vera. To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, it’s advisable to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more extensively. Additionally, aloe vera can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s crucial to use sunscreen when going outdoors after applying aloe vera gel. If you encounter any severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for guidance.

        How to Make Aloe Vera Gel at Home

        Materials Needed

        • An aloe vera leaf (freshly harvested)
        • A sharp knife
        • A clean cutting board
        • A clean bowl
        • A spoon
        • A blender or food processor (optional)

        Instructions

        • Choose a Healthy Aloe Vera Leaf: Select a mature, healthy aloe vera leaf. It’s best to pick one that is at least 8-10 inches long.
        • Wash Your Hands: Ensure your hands are clean before handling the aloe vera leaf to avoid introducing any contaminants.
        • Lay the aloe vera leaf on a clean cutting board.
        • Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the serrated edges on both sides of the leaf.
        • Trim off about half an inch from the top and bottom of the leaf.
        • Slice the aloe vera leaf lengthwise to reveal the inner gel. Be cautious not to cut all the way through the leaf.
        • Using a spoon, gently scoop out the gel from the leaf and place it into a clean bowl. You may notice a yellowish substance called aloin near the skin; it’s best to avoid this as it can cause skin irritation.
        • If you prefer a smoother gel consistency, you can use a blender or food processor. Simply blend the extracted gel until it becomes smooth.
        • Store the freshly extracted or blended aloe vera gel in a clean, airtight container. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a lid.
        • Keep it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. Homemade aloe vera gel typically lasts for about 1-2 weeks when refrigerated

        FAQs 

        1. Can pure aloe vera gel be used for hair care? Yes, pure aloe vera gel can be used as a hair conditioner, helping to promote healthy hair growth, reduce dandruff, and add shine to the hair.
        2. Is it safe to ingest pure aloe vera gel? While pure aloe vera gel is generally safe to ingest in small amounts, it is important to use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Overconsumption of aloe vera gel can lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues.
        3. How can I tell if the aloe vera gel I am using is pure? Look for a product that contains 100% aloe vera gel with no added ingredients or preservatives. You can also check the label for certifications from organizations such as the International Aloe Science Council.
        4. Can pure aloe vera gel be used during pregnancy? While aloe vera gel is generally considered safe for external use during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any new products.

        Final Takeaway

        Pure aloe vera gel is a versatile and effective natural remedy with a variety of health benefits. Whether you are looking to soothe dry skin, treat acne, or promote healing of burns and wounds, pure aloe vera gel can provide gentle and effective relief. Remember to use caution and follow instructions carefully when using aloe vera gel, and always choose a pure and natural product.