DIY Witch Hazel Salve Recipe
Soothe swollen varicose veins with this simple DIY witch hazel salve. Made with shea butter, beeswax, and the astringent, anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel, this homemade salve is perfect for varicose vein relief and calming irritated skin. It's easy to make, absorbs well, and is free from synthetic ingredients -- just pure plant-based comfort in a jar!
Equipment
- double-boiler or pot and a metal bowl that fits on top
- Small jars or tins
Ingredients
- ¼ cup shea butter or coconut oil
- 1 tbsp beeswax
- 3 tbsp witch hazel
- 10 drops Lavender essential oil (optional) for soothing
- 15 drops Geranium essential oil (optional) boosts circulation, tones veins
Instructions
- Boil water in a double-boiler or pot with a metal bowl fit on top.
- Add shea butter and beeswax to the pot and mix while it melts.
- Once the shea butter and beeswax have fully melted, turn off the heat and add the witch hazel and essential oils. If your house is cool like mine, the witch hazel may cause the beeswax to solidify. Keep stirring until it is liquified.
- Transfer the liquid immediately to sterilized jars/tins. The oils and witch hazel will separate. To prevent this, stir the liquid continuously in the jars until it has cooled enough to no longer separate (see notes).
- Allow to cool completely before covering with the lid.
Notes
Storage & Shelf Life
- The salve will tend to separate. To avoid this, add 1/2 tsp of lecithin to the mixture before it cools.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
- Use a clean finger or spatula to avoid contamination.
- Shelf life: approximately 6 months to 1 year (depending on freshness of ingredients and storage conditions).
⚠️ Safety Notes
- For external use only.
- Do a patch test on a small area of skin before widespread use.
- Avoid use on broken skin or open veins.
- If pregnant, nursing, or dealing with a medical condition, consult a healthcare provider before use.