How to Make Herbal Balms and Infused Oils at Home

How to Make Herbal Balms and Infused Oils at Home
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Zuma Nutrition’s products are dietary supplements, not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your health regimen.
What Are Infused Oils and Salves?
Infused oils are made by steeping herbs in a carrier oil to extract their medicinal compounds. These oils can be used on their own as topical remedies or as the base for salves, which are thicker balms made by combining infused oils with beeswax. Both are versatile, natural ways to support skin health, but always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies for medical purposes.
Ready to make your own? Let’s start with the infused oil.
How to Make an Herbal Infused Oil
What You’ll Need
  • 8 oz. dried herb of your choice (e.g., lavender for calming, tea tree for anti-bacterial properties).
  • 16 oz. carrier oil (e.g., almond, olive, jojoba, avocado, or coconut oil; avoid vegetable oils like canola or corn due to quick oxidation).
  • Quart-sized mason jar for steeping and storage.
  • Crockpot for gentle heating.
  • Muslin, cheesecloth, or an old t-shirt for straining.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to this, stick with one herb to keep things simple. For example, lavender is great for a calming massage oil, while oregano works well for bug bites or rashes.
Instructions
  1. Chop the Herbs: Finely chop or grind 8 oz. of dried herbs into a powder and place them in the mason jar.
  2. Add the Oil: Pour 16 oz. of your chosen carrier oil over the herbs, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Stir to combine.
  3. Seal and Heat: Secure the lid on the mason jar and place it in a water bath in your crockpot. Set the crockpot to warm (around 110°F) and let it steep for 3–5 days.
  4. Cool and Strain: Remove the jar and let it cool. Strain the oil through muslin, cheesecloth, or a clean t-shirt to separate the herbs from the oil.
  5. Store: Transfer the infused oil to a clean jar and store it in a cool, dark place. It’ll stay fresh for up to a year!
Safety Note: Always do a patch test before using your oil (more on that below) and consult a healthcare provider if you’re using it for medical purposes.
Now you’ve got a gorgeous infused oil! Use it as a massage oil, moisturizer, or move on to the next step to turn it into a salve.
How to Make an Herbal Salve
What You’ll Need
  • 8 oz. infused herbal oil (from the steps above).
  • 1 oz. beeswax (pellets or grated).
  • Double boiler for melting.
  • Clean glass jars or metal tins for storage.
  • Optional: A few drops of essential oil for added scent (e.g., lavender or peppermint).
Instructions
  1. Warm the Oil: Heat your infused oil in a double boiler over low heat.
  2. Melt the Beeswax: Add 1 oz. of beeswax and stir until fully melted.
  3. Add Essential Oils (Optional): If you’d like a stronger scent, stir in a few drops of essential oil.
  4. Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the mixture into your jars or tins. Let it cool completely, which will thicken the salve.
  5. Store: Keep your salve in a cool, dark place to maintain its thick consistency. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme cold, as temperature affects texture. It’s good for up to a year!
Quick Tip: If your salve is too soft, reheat and add more beeswax; if it’s too hard, add a bit more oil.
Patch Test: Stay Safe!
Before slathering on your new creation, do a patch test to avoid allergic reactions:
  1. Apply a small amount of the oil or salve to the inner crook of your elbow using a sterile cotton swab.
  2. Cover with a bandage and leave for 24 hours.
  3. Avoid getting the area wet or sweaty (skip swimming or workouts).
  4. Check after 24 hours. No redness or irritation? You’re good to go!
If you experience any discomfort, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Why Make Your Own Herbal Balms?
Crafting your own infused oils and salves is not only fun but also lets you customize remedies to your needs. Plus, you control the ingredients, ensuring they’re high-quality and free of unwanted additives. Whether you’re soothing dry skin or tackling a pesky rash, these natural remedies are a fantastic addition to your self-care routine.
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