Whether you're aiming to soothe headaches, relax, or heal, this post will show you how to make a balm infused with herbal goodness. Start creating your very own herbal-infused balms with these easy-to-follow recipes and infusion ideas.
Every time I got sick as a kid, my dad would bring out the echinacea. If we got stung by an insect, he slapped activated charcoal on it. If we had a sore throat, he wrapped our necks in wool. My memory is peppered with crazy-sounding stuff like royal jelly and chaga.
As a surly teenager, I was convinced my dad was totally weird. Now, looking back, I realize he was practicing natural medicine way before it was cool.
Because of this, an herb-infused balm that can soothe a headache or a scraped knee is something I'm definitely willing to try, even if my kids start thinking mommy is a little nutty like Grandpa!
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How to Infuse Oil with Herbs
Infusion Ingredients
- Add ¼ cup of dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, use ½ cup.
- 1 cup carrier oil
I made three infusion blends:
1. Lavender + Peppermint for Headaches
Combine ¼ cup of dried lavender with ¼ cup of dried peppermint for an oil that's perfect for headaches [source] [source].
Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing effects, and peppermint's cooling properties are perfect for soothing headaches and muscle aches.
2. Rose + Chamomile for Calming
My other favorite infusion is ¼ cup of dried rosebuds and ¼ cup of dried chamomile. Chamomile is great in balms for dry or irritated skin, and this relaxing combination is calming and soothing to your emotional state—perfect for using just before bedtime [source]
3. Calendula for Healing
Calendula-infused oil is perfect for a general healing salve—great for use as a diaper cream, too [source]. Calendula is gentle and soothing, making it ideal for sensitive skin, rashes, and minor cuts.
Can you use fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs. However, you'll need more fresh herbs and blossoms than you would if using dried ones so start by doubling the amounts of dried herbs. Make sure they are completely dry (not wet) to avoid water in the oil.
Instructions
For the past few weeks, I have been infusing several herbs on my windowsill using the solar method. I'm generally too impatient to wait weeks for something to be ready, but seeing the pretty herbs on the windowsill was such a treat each day.
There doesn't seem to be any sort of precise measurement for how much oil and how many herbs are needed, but here are the rough instructions:
Step 1: Add herbs to jar
Place 1–2 handfuls of dried herbs into a clean, dry jar (make sure it's completely dry—you don't want mold to start growing).
Step 2: Add carrier oil
Cover the herbs with oil. I used olive oil and almond oil, but any carrier oil will work.
Step 3: Infuse in a sunny spot
Seal the jar and keep it on a sunny windowsill for a couple of weeks, giving it a shake every so often.
If you're using fresh herbs, keep a close eye on the oil as it infuses because fresh herbs can start to mold, especially when exposed to air. Keep them submerged in the oil and toss the whole batch if you notice any mold.
Step 4: Strain
After its time in the sun, strain the mixture with cheesecloth, squeezing every bit of oil out of the herbs.
Herbal Substitutions
What other herbs can you infuse? A myriad of other herbs can be used depending on your needs, like comfrey, rosemary, dandelion, lemon balm, and astragalus.
- Comfrey: Comfrey is used for its ability to help heal bruises, sprains, and strains. It’s great in a balm for targeted application on sore areas.
- Arnica: Excellent for bruises, swelling, and pain relief, arnica can be infused into a balm that’s perfect for an athlete’s kit.
- Rosemary: Stimulating and refreshing, rosemary can be used in a balm for its ability to increase circulation and relieve muscle pain.
- Eucalyptus: Known for its respiratory benefits, a eucalyptus infusion can be made into a chest rub to help clear congestion.
- Ginger: Ideal for warming balms, ginger can help with circulation issues and muscle aches.
- Dandelion: Dandelion is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help soothe irritated skin and may assist in healing acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Particularly useful in balms for skin healing and soothing irritation.
- Lemon Balm: Lemon balm has a calming effect and is antiviral. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety when used topically, and it's also beneficial for cold sores.
- Astragalus: Traditionally known for its immune-boosting capabilities, astragalus can also help to protect the skin. It has anti-aging properties and may help to accelerate healing in the skin. Good in protective balms for improving skin health.
Variation: Quick Infusion Method
While it's a little more painstaking, you can use this quick-infusion method to make your oil in a hurry:
- Place a small saucepan on the stove. Fill it approximately ¼ full of water and bring the water to a boil.
- Place your herbs and oils in a 16-ounce sterilized glass jar. Use a dry, sterilized spoon to stir the mixture so the herbs are coated in oil and no air bubbles remain.
- Put the jar in the water-filled saucepan and simmer on medium-low for 45–60 minutes. Using a clean kitchen thermometer, make sure the temperature of your oil stays between 120° and 140°F. If the water level in the saucepan starts to run low, add enough water to bring it back up to ¼ full.
- When done, strain out the herbs and use the oil to make your balm.
How To Make a Balm with Infused Oil
After the herbal oil is ready, it's time to turn it into a balm, which is simple because you're basically just combining the oil with beeswax.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup herb-infused oil
- 2 tablespoon beeswax
The basic ratio of oil to beeswax that I used was 2 tablespoons of beeswax for each ¼ cup of oil.
More oil will make a creamier balm, while more beeswax will make it more solid. So, if you find the consistency isn't right for you, you can melt it down again and add more oil or beeswax.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine oil + wax
Combine the oil and beeswax either in a saucepan or double boiler. You can also use a heat-proof bowl as a makeshift double boiler.
Either way, I would highly recommend picking one pan or bowl and designating it to be used only for this purpose. You don't want to be eating beeswax remnants the next time you make soup.
Step 2: Melt together
Melt the oil and beeswax together over low heat to make the salve. Once the beeswax is melted, remove from heat.
Before pouring the mixture into containers, you can test the consistency by placing a small amount on a spoon and putting it in the freezer for a few minutes. If it hardens to the desired consistency, it’s ready. If not, adjust the beeswax or oil as needed.
Step 4: Add extras
If desired, add a few drops of essential oils and a little vitamin E oil to act as a preservative and antioxidant. Add 6-10 drops of essential oil per ounce of oil if you want a stronger scent.
Step 3: Pour into a container
Quickly pour the mixture into a clean jar or container before it starts to set. Let your herb-infused balm cool and solidify completely.
Replace the lid, label your balm, and store it in a cool, dry place. If stored properly, your balm should last for at least a year.
Substitutions
Vegan option for beeswax — I recommend all-natural carnauba wax.
Coconut oil instead of wax — You can use just coconut oil for your balm, but it might affect the consistency. I recommend storing it in the refrigerator, especially during the warmer months, to keep it from melting.
6 Herb Balm Ideas
Herbal combinations can be designed to enhance the therapeutic benefits of balms, catering to specific needs like soothing skin, relieving pain, or promoting relaxation. Here are some effective herbal blends for various types of balms:
1. Soothing Skin Balm
Herbs: Calendula, Chamomile, and Lavender
This combination is perfect for sensitive or irritated skin. Calendula promotes skin healing, chamomile soothes inflammation, and lavender adds a calming scent and antibacterial properties.
2. Pain Relief Balm
Herbs: Arnica, Ginger, and Peppermint
Ideal for sore muscles and joint pain. Arnica helps reduce swelling and bruising, ginger increases circulation and warmth, and peppermint provides a cooling effect that can distract from pain.
3. Sleep Aid Balm
Herbs: Lavender, Chamomile, and Hops
This blend is great for promoting relaxation and sleep. Lavender and chamomile calm the mind and body, while hops are known for their sedative properties.
4. Chest Balm
Herbs: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Thyme
Effective for clearing nasal passages and easing breathing. Eucalyptus and peppermint open airways, while thyme offers antibacterial and antiviral benefits.
5. Healing Balm for Cuts and Scrapes
Herbs: Calendula, St. John's Wort, and Comfrey
This blend helps in healing minor wounds. Calendula is an antiseptic and aids in healing, St. John's Wort is great for nerve pain, and comfrey promotes cell growth and skin recovery.
6. Anti-Aging Balm
Herbs: Rosehip, Frankincense, and Green Tea
These herbs are known for their antioxidant properties and their ability to support skin rejuvenation. Rosehip improves skin elasticity, frankincense promotes the regeneration of healthy cells, and green tea combats aging with its high antioxidant content.
FAQ
A solar infusion where the herbs sit in the oil takes 2-4 weeks in a sunny place. For a faster method, heat the herbs and oil for 1 to 2 hours on low heat if using a double boiler method, ensuring that the oil does not overheat.
Too much heat can break down herbs, making them less potent. However, not letting the temperature of your oil go above 140°F will help keep this from happening. If you're worried about it, you can always use more herbs to make up for the degradation from the heat.
Store your balm in a lidded container away from moisture and direct sunlight, and it should last a long time. If something starts to smell funky or the texture changes, you'll know it's time to toss it!
Since sunlight can break down herb-infused balms, I recommend storing them in amber apothecary bottles, like these.
Natural options like vitamin E can be added as an antioxidant to help extend the shelf life of the oils in your balm. Avoid water contamination to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
Herbal Balm Recipe
Equipment
- 16-ounce glass jar
- saucepan
- 8-ounce amber jar with lid
Materials
Instructions
- Combine your choice of herbs with the carrier oil in a tightly sealed container and let it sit for 2–3 weeks. Strain out the herbs. (Note: If you see mold growing, you need to toss it and start again.)
- Combine the remaining oil with beeswax in a saucepan or double boiler over low heat until just melted. Let cool slightly before handling.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container, add essential oil(s) if desired and let cool completely.
Notes
References
References
Leach MJ. Wounds: Calendula officinalis and wound healing: systematic review. Wound Care Learning Network website.
De Sousa DP, et al. A systematic review of the anxiolytic-like effects of essential oils in animal models. Molecules. 2015.
Sasannejad P, et al. Lavender essential oil in the treatment of migraine headache: a placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur Neurol. 2012.
Göbel H, et al. Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache. Schmerz. 2016.
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Gina Jansheski, a licensed, board-certified physician with more than 20 years of practice experience. Learn more about Hello Glow's medical review board here. As always, this is not personal medical advice, and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
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