DIY herbal salve ideas for lips and hands

If you've read any of my other posts, then you already know: I love herbs. They're incredibly versatile, from simmer pots and teas to tinctures and salves. Today, I'm sharing a few of my favourite DIY herbal salves—specifically for lips and hands.

DIY herbal salve ideas for lips and hands

These are easy to make, deeply nourishing, and perfect for gifting or simply keeping close by for everyday use.

Why Herbal Salves?

Herbal salves are oil-based ointments that soothe, protect, or heal the skin. You gently infuse oils with dried herbs, add a little beeswax to firm things up, and voilà—an all-natural balm you can use on anything from cracked lips to gardener's hands.

You can easily buy the required ingredients, but I love making them in small batches using herbs I’ve grown or foraged. I enjoy turning simple, natural ingredients into practical remedies.

Note: If you prefer not to use beeswax, there are vegan-friendly alternatives like candelilla wax, soy wax, or carnauba wax—just be sure to adjust the quantity slightly as they behave a bit differently.

DIY Herbal Lip Salves

1. Soothing Calendula Lip Salve

This one’s a year-round staple. Calendula is gentle and healing, especially on dry or wind-chapped lips.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp calendula-infused olive oil

• 1 tbsp shea butter

• 1 tbsp beeswax pastilles

• Optional: 2–3 drops vanilla or sweet orange essential oil

How to make:

1. Gently melt beeswax, shea butter, and infused oil in a double boiler.

2. Remove from heat and stir in essential oil if using.

3. Pour into small tins or lip balm tubes. Let cool and solidify.

2. Mint & Rose Lip Balm

Cooling, lightly floral, and perfect for summer, this rose has a natural tint and a hint of fragrance.

Mint & Rose Lip Balm

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp rose-infused coconut oil

• 1 tbsp beeswax

• Optional: a pinch of beetroot powder (for colour)

• Optional: 1 drop peppermint essential oil

How to make:

1. Melt coconut oil and beeswax gently.

2. Stir in beetroot powder and peppermint oil.

3. Pour into containers. Allow to set.

3. Beetroot Tinted Lip Salve

This one’s great for when you want a bit of colour with your hydration. Beetroot powder adds a subtle pink tint.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp chamomile-infused almond oil

• 1 tbsp cocoa butter

• 1 tbsp beeswax

• 1/4 tsp beetroot powder

How to make:

1. Melt oils and beeswax.

2. Stir in beetroot powder.

3. Pour into tins and let cool.

🤲 DIY Herbal Hand Salves

4. Gardener’s Hand Salve

This one is rich and deeply restorative—ideal after a day in the garden.

You’ll need:

• 3 tbsp calendula + comfrey-infused olive oil

• 1 tbsp shea butter

• 1 tbsp beeswax

• 4 drops rosemary essential oil

How to make:

1. Melt oil, butter, and beeswax.

2. Stir in rosemary oil.

3. Pour into tins or small jars.

5. Lavender & Honey Hand Salve

Soothing and softly scented—perfect as a bedtime balm.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp lavender-infused oil

• 1 tbsp beeswax

• 1 tsp honey

• Optional: 2 drops of chamomile essential oil

How to make:

1. Gently melt oil and beeswax.

2. Stir in honey and essential oil.

3. Pour into jars. Let cool completely.

6. Winter Rescue Hand Salve

A thick, protective balm for the harsh winter months.

You’ll need:

• 2 tbsp plantain + marshmallow root-infused oil

• 1 tbsp cocoa butter

• 1 tbsp beeswax

How to make:

1. Melt everything together over low heat.

2. Pour into tins and cool.

Tips for Herbal Salve Success

• Use dried herbs only to avoid spoilage.

• Infuse your oils slowly over low heat (or use sun-infusion).

• Always label your tins with the date and ingredients.

• Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store your herbal salves in clean, airtight containers—preferably glass jars or metal tins to keep them fresh and compelling. Please keep them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, which can degrade the oils and herbs over time.

Always use clean, dry hands (or a small spatula) when scooping products to avoid introducing moisture or bacteria. Most salves will last 6 to 12 months, depending on the oils used and how well they’re stored. Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil can help extend shelf life by preventing oxidation.

DIY herbal salve ideas for lips and hands: FAQ

1. Can I make these salves vegan? Yes! Swap out beeswax for candelilla wax, soy wax, or carnauba wax. Just adjust the quantity slightly, as they’re firmer than beeswax.

2. What oils are best for infusing herbs? Olive oil is an excellent all-arounder, but almond, jojoba, or coconut oil can also be used, depending on your skin type and scent preferences.

3. How long do homemade salves last? Stored in a cool, dark place, most salves last up to a year. Just be sure to use clean utensils and dry herbs to prevent spoilage.

4. Can I add essential oils to these salves? Absolutely. Just stick to a low dilution—usually, a few drops per batch is enough, especially for sensitive areas like lips.

5. Are these safe for children? Most are, especially if you skip essential oils or use kid-safe options like chamomile or lavender. Always patch test first.

Whether you're prepping for winter, soothing summer skin, or love the process of crafting your remedies, these herbal salves are a lovely place to start. Let me know if you try them or want a printable version of these recipes!