rosemary infused oil for skin

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!

        8 ESSENTIAL OILS FOR BRUISES

        Bruises, those transient patches of discoloration that result from everyday mishaps, are usually harmless yet can linger longer than one might desire. Essential oils, derived from the aromatic essences of various plants, are revered for their diverse therapeutic properties. This article delves into the intriguing world of essential oils, exploring their potential benefits, application methods, and considerations for those seeking a natural approach to bruise care.

        WHAT IS A BRUISE

        Bruises, scientifically termed ecchymosis, manifest as skin discolorations resulting from physical trauma, such as a blow or impact, leading to the rupture of small blood vessels beneath the skin. Initially, bruises present as a combination of black and blue hues, undergoing a color transformation during the healing process. 

        CAN ESSENTIAL OILS TREAT BRUISES?

        Essential oils are well-liked natural solutions that can be easily employed in the comfort of your home. These oils are also suggested as potential aids in treating bruises, supported by evidence-based arguments from herbalists and other practitioners. What’s intriguing is that contemporary research is aligning with the idea that specific oils might indeed be beneficial for addressing bruises.

        WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET A BRUISE?

        When you get a bruise, it’s essentially a result of small blood vessels, called capillaries, breaking beneath your skin. These capillaries are close to the surface, and when they’re injured, they release blood that gets trapped under the skin. The trapped blood appears as the characteristic discoloration associated with bruises. Initially, a bruise might look red due to the fresh blood, but it gradually changes color as the body works to break down and reabsorb the trapped blood. Enzymes play a crucial role in this process, breaking down the hemoglobin in the blood, and as the bruise heals, it transitions from red or purple to green, yellow, and eventually fading away. 

        While bruises are typically harmless and part of the body’s natural healing mechanism, the process can be influenced by various factors such as the severity of the injury, individual health, and the body’s ability to absorb and clear the blood.

        8 BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR BRUISES 

        Here are the top essential oils recommended for addressing pain or discoloration associated with bruises.

        Typically, direct application of essential oils to the skin can be too harsh and irritating. It’s crucial to avoid contact with undiluted essential oils. Instead, consider diluting them in a carrier oil and incorporating the mixture into a warm compress for application.

        Another option is to blend the oils with a topical lotion, cream, or carrier oil. For every ounce of the product you use or store, mix in 5 drops of the essential oil.

        Feel free to combine multiple oils directly or in various products. Apply the diluted oils to the skin as needed, and it’s advisable to do so twice a day for optimal results.

        In case of allergic irritation on the skin, discontinue the use of essential oils immediately. Remember never to ingest essential oils internally.

        ARNICA MONTANA

        Arnica flower stands out as a widely acclaimed herbal remedy for addressing bruises, recognized for its remarkable healing properties. Scientifically proven to expedite the healing process, Arnica is known for its ability to rapidly reduce the size of bruises and restore the skin to its normal tone. Beyond its efficacy in accelerating healing, Arnica also carries pain-relieving qualities, providing additional comfort to those experiencing bruise-related discomfort.

        When harnessed in the form of arnica essential oil, this herbal remedy can be applied topically to promote faster healing of bruises. It is recommended to use a few drops of diluted arnica essential oil on unbroken bruised skin, applying this solution twice a day for optimal results. The diluted essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil to mitigate any potential skin irritation.

        FRANKINCENSE

        To harness the benefits of frankincense for bruise management, a simple yet effective approach involves applying a few drops of diluted essential oil directly to the unbroken bruised areas. This application should be repeated twice daily to maximize the impact of frankincense on the bruising. Diluting the essential oil with a carrier oil is advisable to prevent potential skin sensitivity. Frankincense’s potent anti-inflammatory components, such as boswellic acids, are believed to contribute to the reduction of swelling and the overall improvement of the bruised area. 

        This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to bruise care, combining anti-inflammatory properties with potential pain relief, making it a noteworthy addition to the arsenal of natural remedies for managing bruises effectively. As with any essential oil application, it is essential to monitor for adverse reactions and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

        LAVENDER

        Lavender, a readily accessible and widely recognized essential oil, emerges as a popular choice akin to helichrysum for potentially minimizing the appearance of bruises when applied promptly after an injury. Renowned for its soothing fragrance and diverse therapeutic properties, lavender oil is believed to offer quick relief and aid in the reduction of bruising.

        For immediate application, it is recommended to apply approximately 5 drops of lavender oil directly to the unbroken skin in the affected bruised area. However, it’s essential to note that direct application might cause discomfort for some individuals. In such cases, an alternative approach is to incorporate the lavender oil into a warm compress, ensuring a gentler and more comfortable application. This method not only addresses the potential discomfort but also provides the added benefit of heat, which can further support the healing process by promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation. The versatility and ease of use make lavender oil an accessible option for those seeking natural remedies for bruise management.

        ROSEMARY

        Rosemary, recognized for its aromatic presence and therapeutic properties, is believed by some to be a beneficial remedy for treating bruises. This herbaceous plant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and circulatory-promoting properties, making it a potential candidate for bruise management. The essential oil derived from rosemary is thought to stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation, contributing to the healing process. To utilize rosemary for bruise treatment, a few drops of diluted essential oil can be gently massaged onto the affected area. 

        This application is believed to not only alleviate pain associated with the bruise but also facilitate a speedier recovery by promoting enhanced blood circulation. While anecdotal evidence supports the use of rosemary for bruises, it’s essential to approach such remedies with caution and consider individual sensitivities. 

        TURMERIC

        Turmeric, a vibrant golden spice with well-documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is regarded by some as a potential remedy for treating bruises. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote overall skin health. To harness the potential benefits of turmeric for bruise treatment, a paste can be made by mixing turmeric powder with a small amount of water or a carrier oil. This paste can then be gently applied to the bruised area, allowing the anti-inflammatory properties to take effect. 

        ST. JOHN’S WORT (HYPERICUM PERFORATUM)

        St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum), a flowering plant with a long history of medicinal use, is believed by some to have therapeutic properties that can aid in the treatment of bruises. This herb contains compounds, including hypericin and hyperforin, which are thought to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Advocates of St. John’s Wort suggests that its application as an infused oil or cream may help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and expedite the healing of bruises. 

        To utilize St. John’s Wort for bruise treatment, the infused oil can be gently applied to the affected area. The potential benefits are attributed to its ability to enhance blood circulation and promote skin regeneration. While St. John’s Wort has been traditionally used for various ailments, it’s essential to exercise caution, especially when combining it with other medications, and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance.

        WORMWOOD (ARTEMISIA ABSINTHIUM)

        Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), an herb known for its bitter taste and historical use in traditional medicine, is suggested by some as a potential remedy for treating bruises. This herb contains various compounds, including absinthin and artemisinin, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

        To incorporate wormwood into bruise treatment, a poultice can be made by blending the herb with a small amount of water or a carrier oil, then applying it to the bruised area. While wormwood has a history of use in herbal medicine, caution should be exercised due to its potent nature. Consulting with healthcare professionals is advisable, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications, to ensure its safety and suitability for bruise management.

        YARROW (ACHILLEA MILLEFOLIUM)

        Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), a flowering herb with a rich history in traditional medicine, is often considered by herbal enthusiasts as a potential remedy for treating bruises. This plant contains compounds such as flavonoids and tannins, known for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. 

        To use yarrow for bruise treatment, the herb can be infused into an oil or combined with a small amount of water to create a poultice, which is then applied to the affected area. 

        WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR FOR BRUISING?

        While bruises are typically harmless and part of the body’s natural healing process, there are certain situations where it is advisable to consult with a doctor. If you experience unusually frequent or severe bruising without a clear cause, it may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Seeking prompt medical advice is crucial if bruising is accompanied by persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection, such as redness and warmth around the bruised area.

        Additionally, if bruising occurs after a significant trauma, like a fall or accident, and is associated with symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention should be sought. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders should also consult their healthcare provider if they notice unexplained or prolonged bruising. 

        Ultimately, if there are concerns about the nature or cause of bruising, consulting with a medical professional ensures proper evaluation and appropriate guidance for optimal care.

        FAQ

        1. Does pressing on a bruise make it heal faster?

        No, pressing on a bruise does not make it heal faster; in fact, it may worsen the injury by causing additional damage to the surrounding tissues and blood vessels.

        2. How long does it take a bruise to fade?

        Typically, bruises tend to diminish within a span of approximately two weeks.

        3. Is heat or ice better for bruises?

        Use ice initially to reduce swelling and numb pain in bruises, then switch to heat, like warm compresses, after the first day to enhance blood circulation in the later stages of healing.

        4. When should you start massaging a bruise?

        Avoid massaging the injured area. In the initial 24 to 48 hours post-injury (acute phase), it’s advisable to persist with rest and ice therapy.

        5. What’s the longest a bruise can last?

        Bruises may endure anywhere from days to months, with bone bruises considered the most intense and painful.

        CONCLUSION

        Exploring the realm of essential oils for bruise care reveals a diverse array of natural remedies that may offer relief and expedite the healing process. From the well-documented benefits of lavender and frankincense to the potential anti-inflammatory properties of arnica and yarrow, essential oils present an intriguing avenue for those seeking holistic approaches to manage bruises. While anecdotal evidence and historical uses support their efficacy, it’s crucial to approach their application with caution, considering individual sensitivities. Consultation with healthcare professionals is advisable to ensure the safety and appropriateness of incorporating essential oils into bruise care routines.