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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Isabella says
Is your ratio 1:2? Mine looks more like a salve :( I'm curious how you got the consistency and texture? I love how it looks!
Richard Cunningham says
I love the instructions and photography. If you get the chance, Hawk Tools just released a balm with ingredients that stop Viruses!! I would enjoy reading a review if you get the chance!
https://hawktoolsusa.com/store/apothecary/explore-sani-balm-bergamot-2-1oz/
Brenna says
I want to make a "butt butter" for my little one, she's a month old. I want to use garlic in it as a natural antibiotic instead of thieves EO or oregano EO but I'm not sure how I'd add it from my cloves of garlic.
Nancy Carol Beer says
We just made a mixture that required the oil from the garlic. It is painstaking, to press many cloves just to get a tablespoon of garlic oil. I think maybe next time we might go ahead a buy it off of Amazon. They carry it.
Medicine cat says
Does this work in the winter when there is not much sunlight also where do you apply the rose one
Penny Eadie says
it just takes longer, I prefer to use a much slower method in the dark with no heat so nothing is destroyed by heat or UV
Savannah Williams says
Where do you source your jars/containers from?
charley says
you can buy them of Amazon
Jenny says
Hi, just wondering, l was infusing some dried Comfrey in pure olive oil. Lucky l had it in a big double boiler with plent of water as l went to bed thinking l had turned my stove off. In the morning l discovered it was still on. It’s a very dark green. It does not appear nor smell burnt. Would it still work? Or would l have killed the property’s of the Comfrey? Approx 10 hours. And no my pot was not burnt. Thankyou
Stephanie Gerber says
Hi Jenny - I would definitely still use it!
Kal says
Can I infuse calendula in sweet almond oil? and how long does the oil last say for 500ml? New to homemade natural skincare, appreciate your feedback. Thx
Malorie says
Hi! I have calendula flowers growing in my garden. Can I use fresh petals, or only dried?
Thanks!
Stephanie Gerber says
You can use fresh petals but will need more volume of them versus dried.
Adenike Odunuga says
Can you use this method to produce commercial quantities? Thanks
Taylor says
Love this! Coming from a society that consistently is told to take a pill... this is really refreshing to see that natural ingredients work as well and are a viable option! Great Post. Want to try both, just need the beeswax! ?
Courtenay geddes says
Does a crockpot really work if you are just starting out again and not wanting to waste time
Thanks Courtenay
Edith says
my daughter is vegan. Anything you could use to replace the beeswax in the balms? Thank you
Stephanie Gerber says
You can try carnauba wax - http://amzn.to/1HNlqJv
Christina says
I use coconut oil quiet often. It is solid below a certain temp. You may have to keep the creams/ointments in the fridge if its hot though (but even then not necessarily). I love coconut oil for my skin anyways! I was surprised when I first used it! My mind said: oil has to = "oily", but its such a light oil that it works very well for skin afterall!
Md Yasar says
Hi, This Yasar... i want to start a small business in Balm for headache n heeling liquid items... can help me in this...
Ligita Zekaite says
i use soya wax!
lou says
candelila wax is what I use in lieu of beeswax since my son is vegan. It is available on amazon for about 15 bucks a pound.
lisa says
You can quickly infuse oils over low heat on the stove for 2 hours, or a few hours in the crock pot if you need them in a hurry.
Vickie says
You could use coconut oil but you would still want to use COSMETIC grade beeswax (from health food store) NOT candle making beeswax. If you don't use beeswax it would be a greasy cream/gel and I'm sure it would still work. If for some reason you can't use beeswax due to allergies you could try a shea butter or similar product in addition to the coconut oil.
Jenni says
Hi,
I was wondering if I could use coconut oil instead of beeswax? I already use coconut oil to help control my psoriasis .
Thank you.
Jenni
Stephanie Gerber says
I think you could - the consistency might be off though, it would probably end up more of a cream than a balm.
Jennifer Couch says
Yes you need beeswax with the coconut oil. Not quite as much maybe as with some other oils.
Laurel says
interesting! on what principle does the headache balm work? and how/where is it applied? I am still new to herbalism and natural remedies. I'll be making some a testing it out when it's ready of course, but in the meantime I'm very curious. I am trying to replace all drugs and over-the-counter non-emergency stuff with herbs, but I'm still taking Tylenol for my Sunday morning hangovers ;) haha
Bobriana says
For the headache balm do you rub it on your temples or where? Also do you have any remedy for joint pain, such as in the knee?
Nerf says
Head-on apply directly to the forehead
mj says
Where do you rub the headache balm?
leetah21 says
Where is the best most cost effective place to get containers to store the finished product in?
Lindsey Johnson says
Hey, Leetah. I would check at a hobby store like Hobby Lobby or Michael's, or see if you can reuse some small spice jars and tins. That's what I usually do.
LaDonna says
I like Specialty Bottle Company. I store all of my herbs in their 500mL packers that are only $1.
Junette Kelly says
Does anyone have a suggestion on a book to purchase that has many recipes for old time healing remedies? We need a homeopathic specialist near us in Kitsap County, Washington, so we may as well be reading up on it ourselves and make healing medicines ourselves. I'm so tired of a doctor just prescribing a pill to be taken internally when something natural (God's healing) will do the same.....and not damage your kidneys.
Lety says
Rosemary Gladstar has several good books. I like "Medicinal Herbs a beginners guide" & "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health: 175 Teas, Tonics, Oils, Salves, Tinctures, and Other Natural Remedies for the Entire Family". They are both under $10 each on amazon and are an invaluable resource. Read her bio. She comes from generations of herbalists and has her own school.
Varina Suellen says
Another book that I HIGHLY recommend is The Natural Remedy Book for Women by Diane Stein. You should be able to get it through Amazon. ISBN is0-89594-525-8. The first part of the book explains 10 natural healing methods: vitamins and minerals, herbs, naturopathy, homeopathy and cell salts, amino acids, acupressure, aromatherapy, flower essences, gemstones, and emotional healing. Then the second part of the book describes 50 common health issues, and then gives remedies from each of the 10 healing methods. Diane Stein lives not too far from me here in Florida, and I used to know the naturopath who was her resource before he died. These are reputable people, and I have used several of the remedies in this book. It is my first resource before I go to anything else for natural healing.
Maryanne says
Can you make this with essential oils instead of infusing the herbs ?
Maria says
Yes. Try this recipe for Vaseline, then add drops of essential oils to it:
1 oz or 1/8 cup beeswax plus 1/2 c olive oil (or other oil - I like sweet almond)
This recipe and others at littlehouseliving.com
Sarah says
Do you know how many drops of the oils to use for each batch this size? I am still learning!!
Ang says
How long do these natural remedies keep and what is the best way to store them?
gerbermom says
Keep them in a lidded container away from moisture and they will last a long time - if something does start to smell funky, you'll know it's time to toss it! :)
Cybele @ BlahBlah says
They're beautiful. I'm sure they smell good too. The best smelling cure for a headache or itchy skin ever! I love calendula, it works so well x
gerbermom says
I'm new to calendula but now I love it! I made a baby butter with it that I've ended up using more for myself :)