Plantain Salve Recipe
Learn how to unlock the incredible benefits of plantain (Plantago major) with this easy, all-natural salve recipe made from infused oil and beeswax. With its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, plantain salve helps with a variety of skin concerns and is an excellent first-aid staple to keep on hand.
Equipment
- Jar for infusing oil.
- Double boiler or saucepan and heat-resistant bowl.
- Strainer and cheesecloth or clean tea towel.
- Tin jar(s) or jar(s) with lid to store salve.
Ingredients
For the infused oil
- ½ to ¾ cup dried plantain leaves
- ⅔ cup (or more) jojoba oil or other carrier oil(s)
For the salve
- 6 tablespoons 90 ml of your plantain-infused jojoba oil
- 1.5 tablespoons beeswax pastilles
- 4–6 drops essential oil optional
- 4–6 drops vitamin E oil optional, as a natural preservative
Instructions
Make the infused oil
- Add the dried plantain leave to a clean pint mason jar or other glass jar. Fill the jar to 1/2 to 3/4 full.
- Add your carrier oil(s) of choice, place the lid on the jar, shake gently to stir, and make sure the leaves are fully submerged. Use at least 2/3 cup of oil, and enough to cover the leaves.
- Slow-infusion method: Place the jar in a warm, sunny window or in a dark place. Let the oil infuse for about 2 weeks if placing in a sunny window, or 4-6 weeks if placing in a dark place, shaking the jar gently every few days.
- Fast double boiler method: Place the jar (make sure is heat resistant!) in a saucepan with a couple inches of hot water and let the water simmer (not boil!) on low for about 2-3 hours, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Once your oil is infused, strain through a strainer lined with a cheesecloth or clean tea towel. Use the oil for the salve, or store it in a clean, labeled glass bottle away from heat and light.
Make the salve
- Add beeswax to a double boiler of in a heat-resistant bowl over a saucepan with a few inches of water. Let the beeswax melt, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add infused oil and other (optional) ingredients. Stir well until combined.
- Pour the liquid mixture into your jar(s) of choice and let the salve harden up at room temperature.
Notes
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- Always use well-dried herbs to infuse oil and strain the oil very well to avoid the risk of mold.
- The slow-infusion method is considered superior to preserve all the properties of the plants and oils, even though the double boiler method is much faster. Always make sure to keep the oil at a temperature not exceeding 160°F (71°C) if using the double boiler method.
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- Label any leftover dried herbs, infused oil, and the salve with date and content.
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- Adjust the amount of beeswax slightly if you want a softer or harder texture.
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- Store the salve in a closed jar in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Shelf life will depend on the kind of oil(s) used. Salve made with jojoba oil can last up to 2 years. Adding vitamin E will extend shelf life, as well as refrigerating the salve.