How to Make Eucalyptus and Peppermint Salve
This Eucalyptus and Peppermint Salve is a great home remedy to use for colds, flu, and other respiratory complaints. Unlike other vapour rubs, it does not contain camphor, which can be overwhelming for many children and adults. This is also an excellent salve to use on achy joints and muscles, so slather it on problem areas to experience pain relief and soothing effects. Best of all, it's easy to make and ready in 15 minutes!
Equipment
- double-boiler or a small/medium pot and a metal bowl
- 2 oz glass jar or two 1 oz jars
- liquid measuring cup
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Olive oil or another carrier oil (grapeseed, sunflower, etc.)
- 1 tbsp Beeswax pellets
- 30 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops Peppermint essential oil
- 5 drops Lavender essential oil optional
Instructions
- Fill the bottom third of the double-boiler or pot with water.
- Fit the top of the double-boiler or metal bowl on top of the bottom pot. Warm over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil to the top of double-boiler/metal bowl.
- Add beeswax pellets to olive oil. Stir to melt beeswax.
- Once the beeswax pellets have completely melted, remove the top pot/metal bowl from the heat. Wait 1 or 2 minutes before adding the essential oils, but not more than this as the salve will begin to harden.
- Add the essential oils to the olive oil and beeswax mixture and stir.
- Carefully transfer the liquid salve to the sterilized jar(s). Once the salve has hardened, seal the jar(s) with the lid(s).
Notes
- Patch test this salve on the inner arm. If sensitivity occurs, discontinue use.
- If using on children, apply sparingly.
- Do not apply this salve close to the eyes. If using under the nose, apply sparingly.
- If using as a spot treatment for acne, use a non-comedogenic carrier oil to make the salve in place of olive oil. Good options are grapeseed, sunflower, and sweet almond oil.
- This salve has a shelf-life of 6 months if kept in a cool, dark place.
- Ensure the jars and lids are sterilized to prevent bacterial or mould growth. I pour boiling water into the jars and lids and let them sit for 4-5 minutes.