Natural Menstrual Comfort: Soothing Salve for Monthly Relief

In anticipation of those challenging times of the month, prepare this salve. I’ve carefully formulated it with analgesic, rubefacient, nervine, and anxiolytic herbs known to alleviate general menstrual pain and discomfort while promoting relaxation and calm.

These herbs have been traditionally used for menstrual support, and their topical benefits for alleviating menstrual pain and discomfort have been reported through historical usage and anecdotal evidence.

Peppermint: Peppermint has analgesic and cooling properties that can help soothe menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation when applied topically. Its refreshing aroma also provides a sense of relief and relaxation.

Clary Sage: Clary sage is known for its antispasmodic and calming properties, making it beneficial for relieving muscle tension and spasms associated with menstrual discomfort. It can also help balance hormones and promote emotional well-being when applied topically.

Lavender: Lavender is renowned for its calming and relaxing effects on both the mind and body. When applied topically, lavender essential oil can help alleviate tension and stress, which are common during menstruation. It also has mild analgesic properties that can provide relief from menstrual cramps.

Motherwort: Motherwort is a traditional herb used for menstrual support due to its antispasmodic and nervine properties. When applied topically, motherwort can help ease muscle tension and cramping associated with menstruation. It also has mild sedative effects that can promote relaxation and ease emotional tension.

If you’re interested in more natural personal care product recipes, check out my ebook: A Guide to Natural Bath & Body Care. Inside, you'll find a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the process of making potent herbal oils and 20 essential everyday bath and body care recipes right in your own home!

Here is this recipe. You'll need to have the herbal oils already prepared.

INGREDIENTS

1 ounce of beeswax

1 fluid ounce of each of following herbal oils: clary sage, lavender, motherwort, and peppermint (4 ounces total)

48 drops of essential oil(s): clary sage, lavender, peppermint

DIRECTIONS

To start, measure 4 ounces of the oils in a jar or measuring cup and place in warm water to make blending easier and faster later on. Nothing warmer than 100 degrees F. Make sure not to get any water inside the jar. Cover, if necessary.

Begin melting 1 ounce of beeswax in a double boiler on medium heat. I find glass works best. Use a chopstick to stir and encourage melting.

When beeswax is very close to melted, turn down the heat. Keep it warm enough to keep the beeswax melted. If you begin to see it solidify around the edges, increase the temperature a little at the time to melt it again.

Take out the jar containing the oil from the warm bath and wipe it down to ensure no water remains on the outside to prevent water from dripping into the salve.

Slowly pour the warmed herbal oil into the melted beeswax and stir to combine. Keep the mixture moving and be careful not to overheat the oil, as some herbs may lose their potency at temperatures above 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for this purpose.

Once all is combine, carefully pour the salve mixture into containers of your choice, such as tins or jars, leaving some space at the top for easy access.

Let sit for about a minute and add in the essential oil(s) for additional therapeutic benefits. Stir slowly to combine evenly.

Set the container aside to allow the salve to cool and solidify completely.

Once cooled, label and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Salve should last for one year.

To use: Massage gently and thoroughly into the skin over all the achy parts.

For instruction on how to make an herbal oil, find the instructions here.

For recommendations on which carrier oil to choose, find my favs here.