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Usnea Salve

A gentle skin salve made from an Usnea-infused oil, set with wax for a smooth, spreadable texture. Use thinly on small, non-bleeding scrapes, dry patches, or mildly irritated skin.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course salve, Skincare
Cuisine Home apothecary, Wild herb
Servings 60 ml

Equipment

  • Heatproof glass or small melting beaker
  • Saucepan for a gentle water bath (double boiler)
  • Stirring spatula or spoon
  • Small thermometer (optional)
  • Clean tins or jars with lids (30–50 ml)
  • Labels and pen

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup Usnea-infused oil olive or sunflower
  • 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets medium-firm salve
  • Vegan option: 1 slightly heaped tbsp candelilla wax or ¾ tbsp carnauba wax stronger gelling; use less than beeswax
  • Optional: 3–6 drops essential oil e.g., lavender for mild, tea tree very sparingly
  • Optional: 3–5 drops vitamin E oil antioxidant

Instructions
 

  • Melt: Add infused oil and wax to the heatproof vessel. Warm in a gentle water bath, stirring until fully melted and uniform.
  • Adjust (optional): Drop a little onto a cold spoon; let set 1 minute. For firmer texture add a pinch more wax; for softer, stir in a little oil.
  • Finish: Remove from heat. Let cool 1–2 minutes, then stir in optional essential oil and vitamin E.
  • Pot & cool: Pour into clean tins or jars. Let set undisturbed at room temperature, then cap and label.
  • Use: Apply a thin layer to clean, intact skin on small scrapes, dry or mildly irritated areas, or after bug bites. Use 1–3× daily as needed.

Notes

  • Consistency: Beeswax gives a creamy glide; candelilla/carnauba set harder—use slightly less than beeswax.
  • Infused oil: For best results, make a slow, low-heat infusion (e.g., several hours below 60 °C / 140 °F) and strain finely.
  • Storage & shelf life: Keep cool, dark, and tightly closed. Best within 6–12 months. Vitamin E helps slow oxidation.
  • Clean handling: Use a clean spatula to dispense; avoid introducing water into the tin.
  • Safety
    • External use only. Do not apply to deep, bleeding, oozing, or infected wounds.
    • Patch test on inner forearm before first use; discontinue if redness or irritation occurs.
    • People sensitive to essential oils should omit them.
    • In pregnancy, while breastfeeding, for children, or with skin conditions, seek professional advice before use.