Adding ingredients to made salves

[Bartemeius]

I’m curious if its advisable to add ingredients to salves after they’ve been cooled. I made a simple calendula and lavender salve but added a bit too much beeswax so it ended up too firm. I was considering reheating it to liquid and adding more oil, then thought about adding other ingredients like maybe st johns wort and maybe comfrey. Is this an ok thing to do or once firm should a salve be left alone?

[IdahoHerbalist]

Yes, but be careful. You will have LOTS of salve. Use the cooled off on a spoon method to get a better idea what the ending consistency will be.

[Bartemeius]

Thanks!

[Michelle KochStudent]

I’ve found a 1:8 ratio of wax to oil to have just the right consistency. 🙂

[IdahoHerbalist]

For what purpose does the 1:8 work. We do 1:1 and it makes a nice useable consistency.

[Michelle KochStudent]

If I use a full ounce (by weight) of wax to a full fluid ounce of oil, my product turns way too firm. I prefer to weigh out a half ounce (I might even go as high as 3/4 ounce) of wax to four fluid ounces of infused oil. It will maintain its solidity, even at room temperature, but will give enough to dip a finger into and melts into the skin perfectly.

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

We use 1 oz of wax (by weight) to one cup of oil.

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

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