Many years ago, I started learning how to create my own homemade and natural salves and tinctures to stock our home apothecary. I recently came across this multi-purpose DIY herbal healing salve recipe and decided to try it. Learn how to craft your own today with these step-by-step instructions.
Caution: Keep all medicinal plants, natural and herbal remedies and medicines safely out of the reach of children. Talk to your trusted healthcare provider l before using dandelion tincture or dandelion extract. It may interact with other medicines or prompt allergic reactions.
Learning to create your own healing salves is a rewarding way to explore natural remedies while crafting something gentle for your skin. When my girls were young we often foraged for herbs and greens with medicinal properties and learned to use the greens and flowers that grew wild in Canada's far north.
Today, I'm sharing this healing salve recipe which combines avocado oil, marshmallow root, lavender, calendula, and chamomile—ideal for everything from soothing diaper rashes to easing dry, irritated skin.
Salve vs. Lotion
Understanding the difference between salves and lotions will help you select the right one, as each serves a unique purpose in skin care. Salves, like this healing recipe, use oils and wax to create a thick, spreadable mixture without water.
Salves, like this one and my oregano salve recipe, provide a lasting, protective barrier on the skin. This makes them suitable for areas needing consistent moisture, such as elbows, hands, or diapers. With seven grandchildren, including three grandbabies that arrived this summer, I plan on making a monster batch to add to our Christmas gift baskets!
On the other hand, lotions contain water. They're lighter and more quickly absorbed. However, they also typically need preservatives to prevent spoilage. And since salves like this one and my Basic Beeswax Salve are water-free, they're simple to make and have a longer shelf life without the need for additives.
And by the way, take a look at my Dandelion Tincture and Salve instructions, too. If you prefer a more solid product, try this lavender tallow balm recipe. It's easy to sub in a different herb for the lavender too.
Using Avocado Oil in Salve
Although I often use almond oil for our salves, avocado oil is also an excellent choice for salves because of its nourishing qualities. High in vitamins A, D, and E, this oil penetrates deeply into the skin, offering moisture and helping to calm inflammation.
Avocado oil's fatty acids suit dry or sensitive skin, providing a soft, smooth base for the herbal ingredients in this herbal healing salve recipe. Its rich texture also blends well with beeswax. I like the salve consistency, which is soothing yet not too greasy.
Making a Non-toxic Diaper Salve
One of the things I love most about this DIY herbal healing salve recipe is its easy modification. And when I make it without essential oils, it can do double duty as a general dry skin salve, or a gentle, non-toxic diaper salve.
Since diaper rashes often benefit from soothing, protective layers, the combination of avocado oil, calendula, and chamomile makes it a safe choice for babies. These herbs are known for their skin-calming properties.
By avoiding essential oils, you get a safe, natural salve that helps prevent diaper rash while reducing the risk of irritation. Just be sure to consult your pediatrician if your baby has extremely sensitive skin or any skin conditions.
Homemade Salve for Eczema
In the last five years, I've developed asthma, allergies, and eczema. While the conventional "modern" doctor prescribed a cortisone steroid cream for the painful eczema on my hands and face, the naturopath I spoke with suggested trying a natural salve.
And this one has soothed the itchiness for me, so if you're dealing with eczema, this homemade healing salve might help relieve the irritation and inflammation you're experiencing as well. (Tip: I used it without the lavender essential oils.)
.The combination of calendula and chamomile works well for eczema-prone skin due to their calming properties. Calendula, especially, is valued in herbal remedies for reducing swelling and promoting skin repair.
When used consistently, a salve like this one can help soften and protect dry patches. This alone makes it a soothing treatment for managing the discomfort associated with eczema.
Choosing Herbs for Your Salve Recipe
When choosing herbs for a healing salve recipe, look for those that offer anti-inflammatory and soothing qualities. This recipe includes marshmallow root, lavender, calendula, and chamomile—each chosen for its unique benefits.
- Marshmallow Root: Known for its mucilaginous quality (I know it sounds gross, but it works), marshmallow root creates a gel-like texture when infused, which is helpful for soothing skin inflammation.
- Lavender: This herb brings a calming scent and also offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Calendula: Calendula is a skin-soothing herb often used in creams and salves that promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
- Chamomile: Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin, chamomile has calming and anti-inflammatory qualities and suits various skin types.
How to Make My Herbal Salve Recipe
Once you've gathered your herbs and avocado oil, you can create this healing salve recipe. Make sure your hands and all utensils are washed and clean.
Want the printable, step-by-step instructions? You will find them right down at the bottom of this post! Print them out and use them often! ⬇️⬇️
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this healing salve recipe.
- 1 cup avocado oil
- ¼ cup marshmallow root
- ¼ cup lavender
- ¼ cup calendula
- ¼ cup chamomile
- ¼ cup beeswax
- 5-10 drops of essential oil (optional)
- 2 oz containers for storage
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions. You can print out the directions from the card down below.
- Infuse the Oil: Add each herb into a glass jar, then pour the avocado oil over until fully covered. Cap the jar and let it infuse for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking every couple of days to help release the herbal benefits. After this period, strain out the herbs, and you'll have an infused oil ready for your salve.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heat-safe glass container, add the infused oil and beeswax. Place this in a double boiler, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently, until the beeswax melts completely.
- Add Essential Oils: If using essential oils, add them once the mixture has melted and is thoroughly blended. Stir again to ensure even distribution.
- Pour and Set: Carefully pour the liquid salve into your prepared containers. Let them sit undisturbed until fully cool and set, typically a few hours. Once hardened, your herbal healing salve is ready to use.
Healing Salve FAQs Section
Here are some of the most common questions I get about this healing salve recipe.
Does Avocado Oil Cause Acne?
Avocado oil generally has a low comedogenic rating, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. It can be used on most skin types without causing acne. However, if you have very oily or acne-prone skin, test a small amount first to ensure it works well for you.
How Should I Store a Natural Herbal Salve?
Store your herbal salve in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A shelf life of about one year is typical, but if you notice any change in color, texture, or scent, it's best to make a fresh batch.
Can I Use a Different Carrier Oil?
You can substitute avocado oil with other carrier oils like olive oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil. Each oil has slightly different properties, so choose one that best suits your skin's needs and your personal preferences.
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DIY Herbal Healing Salve Recipe with Avocado Oil and Herbs
Make a DIY herbal healing salve with avocado oil, chamomile, and calendula to soothe dry, irritated skin naturally. Perfect to add to your home remedies collection.
Materials
- 1 cup avocado oil
- ¼ cup marshmallow root
- ¼ cup lavender
- ¼ cup calendula
- ¼ cup chamomile
- 1 cup infused oil
- ¼ cup beeswax
- 5-10 drops essential oil (optional)
Tools
- 2 ounce containers
- glass mason jars
- double boiler
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Instructions
- Add each herb into a glass jar. Pour the carrier oil onto the top. Leave for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking every couple of days. Then strain.
- Add the infused oil and beeswax into a heat safe glass container. Slowly melt it in a double broiler or in the microwave, stirring in between.
- Once completely melted add in your essential oils and stir once again.
- Pour into your containers.
Notes
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