Frankincense Salve Recipe

This homemade frankincense salve makes a thoughtful gift and a staple for your own herbal apothecary. With its grounding scent and soothing touch, it’s a simple way to bring a little ancient wisdom into modern self-care.

Frankincense has been treasured for thousands of years for its grounding aroma and powerful skin-healing properties. From ancient rituals to modern herbal medicine cabinets, this resin has stood the test of time. Today, I’m sharing a simple yet deeply nourishing Frankincense Salve recipe that combines the wisdom of tradition with the ease of DIY.

This homemade salve is perfect for dry skin, scars, or simply as a daily moisturizer. It has a rich, earthy aroma that feels both calming and uplifting, making it a beautiful addition to your natural skincare routine. Best of all, it’s simple to make and requires only a handful of ingredients.

How To Make Frankincense Salve

For this recipe you will need frankincense resin, a carrier oil, frankincense-infused oil, beeswax, and frankincense essential oil.

1. Infuse the Oil
   • Grind frankincense resin into a coarse powder.
   • Place it in a clean glass jar and pour the carrier oil over it.
   • Heat using a double boiler on low for several hours OR let the mixture sit on a sunny windowsill or countertop for 2–3 weeks.
   • Strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove resin pieces.
2. Melt the Base
   • In a double boiler, combine ½ cup of the infused oil with beeswax pellets.
   • Heat gently, stirring until beeswax is fully melted.
3. Add Essential Oil
   • Remove from heat and stir in frankincense essential oil (if using).
4. Pour & Set
   • Carefully pour the salve into clean tins or glass jars.
   • Let sit overnight to harden before using.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

One of the best parts of making your own salve is how flexible it can be. Here are a few ways to adapt this recipe:

• Carrier Oil: This recipe uses a neutral oil like olive, jojoba, or almond oil. If you prefer a lighter feel, try grapeseed or fractionated coconut oil. For extra skin-nourishing benefits, use avocado or rosehip oil.
• Frankincense Resin: If you don’t have frankincense tears, you can skip the resin infusion and simply use frankincense essential oil. Keep in mind, the aroma and healing properties will be more subtle without the resin infusion.
• Beeswax: Beeswax helps solidify the salve and gives it a protective barrier. For a vegan option, use candelilla or carnauba wax (you may need slightly less, as they are harder than beeswax).
• Essential Oils: Frankincense essential oil deepens the fragrance and enhances the skin benefits, but it’s optional. You can also add lavender, myrrh, or sandalwood for a more complex aroma.

How to Use Frankincense Salve

This salve is truly versatile. Here are a few ways you can incorporate it into your daily routine:

• Daily Moisturizer: Apply to dry hands, elbows, heels, or anywhere in need of extra hydration.
• Scar & Stretch Mark Care: Massage gently into scars or stretch marks to support skin repair.
• Soothing Balm: Use on small scrapes, irritated skin, or minor burns for comfort.
• Aromatherapy: Rub a small amount on temples or wrists for a calming effect.

FAQ

Can I use just essential oil without the resin?
Yes, though the resin infusion adds depth and additional benefits. If you’re short on time, using only essential oil still makes a lovely salve.

How long does this salve last?
Stored in a cool, dark place, it should last about 6–12 months. The shelf life depends on the oils used. Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil can help extend freshness.

Is this safe for sensitive skin?
Generally, yes. Frankincense is gentle, but always do a patch test first. If you have very sensitive skin, start with a smaller amount of essential oil or omit it.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just scale the ingredients up while keeping the ratios the same.

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• Calendula Salve Recipe
• How To Make Lavender Oil
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• Coconut Oil Bath Melts
• How To Take The Perfect Detox Bath

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