How to make it
- 1Melt beeswax in the oil
Combine beeswax pellets and olive oil in a small glass bowl over simmering water. Stir until the beeswax is completely melted and the mixture is uniform. This takes 3–5 minutes.
- 2Test consistency before pouring
Dip a cold spoon into the mixture and let it set for 30 seconds. If the result is too hard, add more oil. If too soft, add more beeswax pellets. Adjust while the mixture is still liquid and warm.
- 3Remove from heat and cool slightly
Take the bowl off the heat and allow the mixture to cool for 2 minutes. It should still be liquid but not steaming. Adding essential oil to very hot wax burns off the volatile compounds that make lavender therapeutic.
- 4Add essential oils and stir
Add lavender essential oil (and tea tree oil if using) and stir thoroughly for 30 seconds to distribute evenly.
- 5Pour into container and leave to set
Pour the liquid salve into a small glass jar or tin. Leave undisturbed at room temperature for 1–2 hours until completely set and firm. Do not refrigerate while setting.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil has more documented therapeutic uses than almost any other essential oil. Its linalool and linalyl acetate compounds have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties in multiple studies. For minor cuts and burns especially, lavender is genuinely functional — not just fragrant.
Key ingredient benefits
- Use calendula-infused oil instead of plain olive oil for extra healing and soothing properties
- Add 5 drops of frankincense oil for anti-ageing skin regeneration properties
- Swap lavender for rose geranium oil for a more floral, deeply moisturising salve
- Add 1 tsp vitamin E oil for extra shelf life and antioxidant skin support
- Use a 2:1 oil-to-wax ratio for a softer balm; 1:1 for a firmer, more stick-like consistency