Salve

A salve is a herb carried in a base of oil and beeswax, so it can be kept and applied as often as needed without brewing. The herb is first steeped in oil, usually for weeks in sunlight or gently over low heat; the oil is then strained and set with wax. Salves are used where a herb needs to stay on the skin: calendula for grazes and dry patches, comfrey and arnica for bruises and knocks, peppermint and camphor rubbed into aching muscles. They are the most involved preparation to make at home, so many people buy them ready made, including from our shops.