DIY Gardener’s Hand Balm Recipe

Gardening is more affordable than therapy, plus you get tomatoes! – Unknown Author

Gardening offers numerous benefits beyond just fresh produce. Gardeners are often known to have longer lifespans, and I personally know elderly individuals who continue to spend hours gardening each week, well into their 90s!

Whether it’s the ample vitamin D, the helpful organisms in the soil, the physical activity, or simply the time spent in nature, gardening clearly has its advantages.

I prefer to forgo gloves while working in the garden to better feel the plants and soil. I’m comfortable doing this since we opt for organic pest control and fertilizer solutions. However, it sometimes results in cracked or dry hands.

The Magic of Salves

Salves are nourishing, oil-based ointments infused with beneficial herbs to promote healing. Unlike lotions that combine oils and water to hydrate and prevent moisture loss, salves are based on oil and wax. You can choose different oils depending on the desired effect of your salve. I personally like using coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, and rosehip seed oil.

I frequently use salves for various purposes. From treating cracked heels and stretch marks to drawing out splinters, salves are a staple in our household. I have salves specifically for hand care and others for dry cuticles.

Gardeners Hand Salve Recipe

This salve is infused with numerous calming herbs that nourish dry skin and heal small gardening cuts quickly. It leaves hands feeling soft and smooth, even if you aren’t a gardener. Its dark green color comes from the many herbs infused into the oils, giving it a rich earthy and medicinal aroma.

I prefer making salves with dried herbs to minimize the risk of spoilage, as no moisture from the plant leaves gets into the oils. While salves can also be made with essential oils, I’ve found that this infused version is more effective and less likely to irritate the eyes if they come into contact. However, I do add a touch of lavender essential oil to enhance healing properties.

Herbs to Use

There are many restorative herbs you can use, but here’s what I chose:

Before You Begin: Infuse the Herbs Into the Oil

This step is crucial for making an effective salve. It takes time, and there are two methods for herb infusion, depending on your available time.

I use olive oil, though other liquid carrier oils like avocado or sweet almond can also be used. Coconut oil is an option if using the one-day infusion method, but you should reduce the beeswax in the recipe.

Option 1: One Day Option

If you’re in a hurry and don’t want to wait weeks for the herbs to infuse, you can speed up the process using a double boiler.
1. Pour 1 cup of olive oil (or another carrier oil) into the top portion of a double boiler.
2. Add a few inches of water to the bottom part and heat on medium.
3. Once simmering, lower to a gentle heat.
4. Simmer for 3-4 hours or until the oil is very dark green.
5. Strain out herbs using cheesecloth and store the oil in a clean, airtight container.
Option 2: Longer Option

If you can wait, here is how to conduct a slower infusion.
1. Combine herbs and 1 cup of olive oil (or another carrier oil) in a pint-sized glass mason jar with a secure lid.
2. Leave it for at least 3 weeks, shaking occasionally to help the herbs infuse. If the weather permits, leave the jar in sunlight for a solar-infused oil.
3. Strain the herbs out using cheesecloth and keep the oil in a clean, airtight container.

Once the oil is strained, you’re ready to make your hand salve!

Gardeners Hand Salve

This herb-infused hand salve is ideal for healing and nourishing dry or damaged hands. It’s great for gardeners and anyone tough on their hands.

Active Time: 10 mins
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Yield: 5.5 ounces
Author: Katie Wells

Instructions:

Melt beeswax, shea butter, and herb-infused oil in a double boiler until melted. Alternatively, use a heat-safe glass bowl set over a pot.
Remove from heat and add lavender essential oil if desired.
Quickly and carefully pour the mixture into small glass jars or tins.
Let cool in the refrigerator to prevent the shea butter from turning grainy.
Use as needed after gardening or whenever your hands require extra care.

Store in a cool, dry place and use as necessary. I store mine in the pantry.

More Salve Recipes to Try

These salve recipes cater to various skincare needs using botanical oils and waxes. Plus, they are free from parabens, phthalates, and other unwanted chemicals since you control the ingredient list!

Do you enjoy gardening? Have you ever used a moisturizing hand cream or salve for hardworking hands? Share your experiences below!