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Simple Mullein Leaf and Calendula Balm

Simple Mullein Flower and Calendula Balm - Alpine Apothecary

Recipe illustration; appearance may vary.

This is a deliberately simple home balm using two infused oils and candelilla wax. It is not the same formula as Alpine Apothecary Mullein Herbal Blend Balm.

Makes: approximately 45 g

Ingredients

  • 20 g mullein leaf-infused oil
  • 20 g calendula-infused oil
  • 5 g candelilla wax

Method

  1. Place the infused oils and candelilla wax in a clean, dry heatproof jug.
  2. Stand the jug in a gentle water bath and warm until the wax has completely melted.
  3. Stir well, then pour into a clean, dry 50 ml tin or jar.
  4. Leave uncovered until completely cool, then fit the lid and label with the date.
  5. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 3 months. Discard if the smell, colour or texture changes.

Choosing the mullein

Use thoroughly dried mullein leaves for this external-use skin balm. Strain through a fine filter carefully to remove leaf hairs and plant particles. Mullein leaves contain water-soluble mucilage, which is not substantially extracted by oil. Mullein flowers are traditionally used for ear-oil preparations, but this balm is for skin only and must never be placed in the ear. Seek medical advice for ear pain, discharge or a suspected perforated eardrum.

Safety

For external use only. Patch test first. Do not apply to broken, infected or irritated skin. Keep water out of the balm and stop use if irritation occurs.

Prefer it ready made? Shop Alpine Apothecary Mullein Herbal Blend Balm

Beeswax option

To make a beeswax trial of approximately 45 g, use 18.5 g mullein leaf-infused oil, 18.5 g calendula-infused oil and 8 g beeswax, instead of the candelilla version above. Melt and pour as directed. Beeswax gives a more pliable feel while candelilla is firmer at lower percentages. This is a starting ratio; test the set and adjust before making gifts or larger batches.

For external adult use only. This has not been assessed for babies.

Explore which carrier oils work best for calendula.

Make it or buy it

Shop Alpine Calendula Petals to make your own infusion, or follow our Calendula-Infused Oil guide to compare different carrier oils.

Rather use finished skincare? Explore Alpine Calendula Body Butter and Mullein Herbal Blend Balm. Our retail formulas differ from these simple home recipes.

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