Making an ointment is easier than you think! This guide provides a basic method, using readily available ingredients. Remember, always practice good hygiene when making any topical product.
Basic Ointment Recipe
This recipe adapts the instructions found in resources like Bees for Development (https://resources.beesfordevelopment.org/rc/creams-and-ointments-using-beeswax/). It's a starting point; you can adjust ingredient ratios to achieve your desired consistency.
Ingredients:
- 1 measure melted beeswax
- 1 measure petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
- 1 measure vegetable oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil)
- 2 measures scented or herbal water (infused water, hydrosol, or distilled water with essential oils)
- 1 teaspoon borax (sodium borate – acts as a preservative; use with caution and research thoroughly)
Note: "Measure" can refer to any consistent unit, like tablespoons or ounces, as long as you maintain the ratio.
Instructions:
- Prepare a double boiler or heat-safe container: Place your heat-safe container (a glass or stainless steel tin works well) in a pot of boiling water. This method prevents burning the ingredients. (Referencing the Bees for Development resource).
- Combine dry ingredients: In the heat-safe container, combine the beeswax, Vaseline, and vegetable oil.
- Melt ingredients: Gently heat the container in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax and Vaseline are completely melted and all ingredients are well combined.
- Add water and borax: Remove from heat and carefully stir in the scented/herbal water and borax. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour and cool: Pour the mixture into clean, sterilized containers. Allow to cool and solidify completely.
Tips and Considerations:
- Essential Oils: Add a few drops of essential oils (like lavender, tea tree, or chamomile) to the water for added fragrance and potential therapeutic benefits. Always research essential oil safety and dilutions before use.
- Herbal Infusions: For a more potent herbal ointment, infuse the oil with herbs before combining with other ingredients. This allows the beneficial compounds from the herbs to be transferred into the oil base.
- Vegan Options: Replace beeswax with a vegan alternative like candelilla wax or soy wax.
- Sterilization: Ensure all your equipment and containers are clean and sterilized to prevent contamination.
- Preservation: Borax acts as a preservative, but its use should be carefully considered, and alternatives such as Vitamin E oil may be preferred.
Variations and Further Exploration
Many resources offer different ointment bases and recipes, including those using butters and different oil combinations (https://www.handmadeapothecary.co.uk/ointments-balms-2). Experiment to find what works best for your needs.
