Healing cuts and scratches is a common experience, whether during outdoor adventures, kitchen mishaps, or just the rigors of everyday life. Instead of reaching for commercial ointments full of synthetic ingredients, consider making a healing salve right at home. This guide will show you how to create an effective and natural healing salve using Raw Mānuka Honey, known for its strong antibacterial properties. With a few simple steps and common household ingredients, you can nurture your skin naturally.
What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka Honey originates from the nectar of the Manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand. It is valued for its remarkable healing powers, particularly when it comes to wound care and infection prevention. A notable aspect of Raw Manuka Honey is its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content. Studies show that MGO concentration can range from 100 to over 1000 mg/kg, making some grades of Manuka Honey up to 100 times stronger than regular honey in antibacterial activity.
Why Make a Healing Salve?
Creating your own healing salve gives you control over what goes on your skin. This means avoiding harmful chemicals often found in commercial products.
You can customize homemade salves to suit your specific needs, blending ingredients based on your preferences or skin types. On average, homemade salves can save you 30-50% compared to store-bought options. Plus, it's a fun and fulfilling DIY project!
Ingredients You'll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, gather these ingredients:
1/4 cup raw Manuka honey: This acts as a potent antibacterial agent.
1/4 cup coconut oil: Known for its moisturizing properties and skin protection.
2 tablespoons beeswax: Thickens the salve and adds a protective layer.
10 drops tea tree essential oil: Valued for its antimicrobial properties (optional).
10 drops lavender essential oil: Known to soothe and promote faster healing (optional).
A few drops of Vitamin E oil.
NOTE-If you prefer to use a herbal infused oil instead of coconut oil, do it! I like to mix it up with calendula infused avocado or chamomile infused olive oil.
How to Make Your Healing Salve
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Begin by collecting all ingredients and tools. You will need a double boiler (or a glass bowl over a saucepan), a mixing spoon, and a small container for the salve. Ensure all tools are clean to prevent contamination.
Step 2: Melt the Base Ingredients
In your double boiler, combine coconut oil and beeswax. Stir occasionally until everything has melted, which should take about 10 minutes. Make sure the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Stir in Raw Manuka Honey
Once melted, remove from heat and add the raw Manuka honey. Stir well until fully combined. This step is essential for evenly distributing the honey's healing properties throughout the salve.
Step 4: Add Essential Oils
Next, mix in the tea tree and lavender essential oils. These oils not only enhance the salve’s benefits but also impart a pleasant fragrance. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
Step 5: Pour and Cool
Carefully pour the mixture into your storage container. Allow it to sit at room temperature until solid, which should take around 1-2 hours. To speed up the process, you can place the container in the refrigerator.
How to Use Your Healing Salve
Once your salve has set, it’s ready for use! Here’s a simple guide to applying it effectively:
Clean the Area: Ensure the cut, scratch, or affected area is clean using mild soap and water.
Apply Salve: Using clean fingers or a spatula, apply a small amount directly onto the wound.
Cover If Necessary: For larger areas or to protect against dirt, consider covering it with a bandage.
Repeat As Needed: Reapply the salve 1-2 times a day until the skin is healed.
Safety Considerations
While all ingredients are natural, some people may be sensitive to essential oils. Always conduct a patch test on a small skin area before using the salve widely. If there’s any irritation, stop using straight away.
Storage Tips
Keep your salve in a cool, dry place. It can last several months, but check for changes in smell or texture before use, as natural ingredients can degrade over time.
Experience the Power of Natural Healing
Creating your own DIY Manuka honey healing salve is a fantastic way to tap into the power of nature for everyday skin care. It not only treats typical cuts and scratches but also offers infection prevention with its natural antibacterial qualities.
Try this straightforward recipe the next time you face a minor injury. Your skin will surely thank you for taking a nurturing and natural approach to care! Happy crafting!
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