This recipe is perfect for beginners, with just a few basic ingredients and equipment needed.
Beginning of the Process: Start by gathering your equipment and ingredients.
Combination of ingredients: Combine dead purple nettle injected oil and beeswax in a heatproof jar or container.
Creating a double boiler: Then find a pot and fill it with a few centimeters of water. Place your jar containing the oil and beeswax mixture in the pan. This makeshift double boiler is a gentle way to heat sensitive ingredients, much like warming your hands by a fire, without getting too close to the flame.
Melting Mixture: Turn your stove to medium-low, allowing the water in the pan to heat up and gently heat the contents of the jar. Watch as the beeswax slowly melts into the oil. Stir occasionally, making sure the mixture is combined smoothly.
Adding essential oils: Once the beeswax has completely melted and the mixture is clear and uniform, remove the jar from the heat. This is the perfect time to add a few drops of essential oil if desired. I often choose lavender for its calming scent and skin soothing properties, but tea tree oil is a great choice for its antibacterial qualities. Whatever you choose, let it be a scent that brings you peace and joy.
Pouring the salvo: With a steady hand, pour the warm, runny sauce into your chosen tin or glass jar. I find this step particularly satisfying, as it is when your efforts begin to take shape.
Let it settle: Allow the sauce to cool and harden, turning from a liquid into a soothing sauce. This waiting period is a good time to reflect on the healing journey you are facilitating, not only for yourself, but for anyone who may benefit from this medicine.
Sealing and storage: After the sauce has cooled and hardened, gently place the lid on the container. Your Purple Dead Nettle salve is now ready to be stored in a cool, dark place. Don't forget to label your jar or can with the contents and the date. When stored properly, your sauce should stay potent for up to a year.
