DIY Turmeric Salve Recipe with Calendula for Soothing Relief

Calendula and Turmeric Hand Balm - Nature's Remedies

A calendula salve and turmeric balm recipe is a simple and handy remedy to have at home—one that can be used for various skin concerns. Whether your hands are cracked and dry from winter’s havoc or your kitchen clumsiness has taken a toll, this turmeric salve can soothe dry and irritated skin, minor cuts and burns, insect bites, and even offer relief from muscle, joint, and dermatological inflammation. Follow this turmeric balm recipe to create your own healing salve from the comfort of your home.

Wound Healing with Calendula and Turmeric

Botanicals provide therapeutic relief through antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cell-stimulating, and antioxidant properties that enhance the wound healing process (Quave, Cassandra L., 2018). Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a well-known herb for skin repair. It helps soothe inflammation and offers both antibacterial and antiseptic action. A 2018 study showed that the topical use of calendula resulted in 78% of participants achieving full wound closure after 30 weeks when treating foot ulcers (Quave, Cassandra L., 2018). This strongly supports the wound-healing potential of calendula salve.

In addition to calendula, turmeric is widely praised for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic (Vaughn AR, Branum A, Sivamani RK., 2016). Evidence supports turmeric’s effectiveness in treating a variety of skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, acne, and eczema. Learn more about the benefits of turmeric balm and why it’s an essential ingredient in your skincare toolkit.

How to Make a Calendula and Turmeric Balm?

This turmeric balm recipe uses calendula-infused oil, turmeric essential oil, and nourishing beeswax. Don’t worry if you’re missing one or two ingredients—there are many other herbal allies and essential oils that can offer similar inflammatory relief, including:

Lavender

St. John’s Wort

Camphor

Elderflower

Marshmallow Root

Chamomile

DIY Calendula Salve and Turmeric Balm Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 cup dried calendula flowers

1 cup carrier oil for the herbal infusion (e.g. olive, sweet almond, or coconut oil)

1/4 cup beeswax pastilles

10 drops turmeric essential oil

Directions

Infuse the Oil

Place 1/2 cup of calendula flowers in a sterilised jar and top with your chosen carrier oil. Let it sit for up to one month on a sunny windowsill. For a quicker method, place the jar in a double boiler on the lowest heat for 4–8 hours.

Strain the Oil

Use a cheesecloth or fine strainer to separate the flowers from the oil. Squeeze out all the remaining oil and compost the flowers.

Melt the Beeswax

Set up your double boiler again. Place the strained oil in a heatproof jar and add 1/4 cup of beeswax pastilles. Stir occasionally until fully melted.

Cool & Add Essential Oil

Let the oil cool down to about 125°F (approximately 51°C). Add 10 drops of turmeric essential oil and stir well to combine.

Pour & Store

Pour the mixture into tins or jars. Allow to cool completely before sealing. Label and store your homemade turmeric salve in a cool, dry place.

You can apply this turmeric balm daily as part of your skincare routine. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used for cuts, bites, irritations, dry patches, or mild burns. Once you've made your first calendula salve, feel free to experiment with other herbs and oils. Take control of your wellbeing through DIY remedies—you might even find yourself helping friends and family along the way.

FAQs

Q. What is turmeric salve used for?

Turmeric salve is used to soothe irritated, inflamed, or dry skin. Thanks to turmeric’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce redness, itching, and supports the healing of minor wounds, bites, and eczema patches. This natural balm is an ideal choice for those seeking a chemical-free solution to common skin concerns.

Q. How to make a turmeric salve?

To make a turmeric salve, infuse calendula flowers in a carrier oil for several hours or weeks. Strain the oil and melt beeswax into it using a double boiler. Once cooled to around 125°F (51°C), add turmeric essential oil. Stir, pour into tins or jars, and let it cool completely. This soothing balm can be used daily for natural skincare and wound relief.

Q. How to make your own turmeric cream?

Making your own turmeric cream or balm involves combining herb-infused oil with beeswax and essential oils. Use dried calendula flowers for infusion, melt in beeswax, then add turmeric essential oil for its healing properties. This homemade salve is free from harsh chemicals and preservatives, making it ideal for treating irritated or dry skin naturally.

Q. What is the turmeric cream used for?

Turmeric cream or balm is used to treat skin problems like eczema, acne, inflammation, and dryness. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities make it suitable for calming sensitive skin and promoting healing. This DIY solution is especially useful for people who want a natural, herbal-based skincare option that supports the body’s healing processes.

*Please do not disregard professional medical advise. This information is not meant to treat or diagnose any medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare practitioner for appropriate treatment. Take caution if your are diabetic, epileptic, pregnant, breastfeeding or facing any serious health issues.