Baby Salve
This baby salve is made by decocting herbs first. It is good practice for making salves from wet ingredients. Effective for diaper rash, small abrasions and dry skin.
½ T. Chickweed
½ T. Calendula flowers, crushed
½ T. Comfrey root, powdered
½ T. Goldenseal root, powdered
2 c. distilled water
1 c. Olive oil
1 oz. beeswax, grated
16 drops tincture of Benzoin (balsamic tree resin used as a safe preservative)
7 drops essential oil, like Honeysuckle or Rose
Make a decoction of the herbs – put the herbs in the distilled water and bring to a boil, turn down heat and simmer for 10 minutes, strain and simmer down to ½ cup. Melt olive oil and beeswax in double boiler, stir in decoction and simmer until the water has completely evaporated – this is when the bubbling stops – watch carefully, do not burn. Pour a small amount into a jar to cool and test for consistency. If you need more beeswax add it now. Stir in the Benzoin and essential oil, pour into a wide mouth amber jar and label.
