The Soap Dish. #4

Hi Everyone,

Anna here. My soap room is organized!! It took me a while and there are still a few things I need to finish, but wow! I can find my stuff so much faster, because its organized! It feels good to accomplish that. Like I said, I still want to switch out two more shelves, but I could live with it if I didn’t. It really works now. The last week I have been making different salves. I have various herbal ones that I started making in 2007. They are pretty popular with my regulars. One of my regulars, swaps crotchet scrubbies with me for the salve and I love them! They are the best for dishes. I appreciate all my customers. Its not always about the money but the joy of making something that someone can use and appreciate themselves. I’m just very greatful for all my customers. I truely love making soap and other herbal products.

Last week I made a batch of Elderberry syrup. It turned out so delicious. It’s so good for you and really gives your immune system a boost. Especially, when you aren’t feeling that great.

Now about my saffron crocus I planted in November. I have been so disappointed, I go out everyday looking for flowers. They just aren’t blooming. I started doing some research, and hopefully next year I will have some blooms. I was really wanting to try using them as dye for soap, maybe next year.

Below is an easy herbal salve that can be for a variety of skin problems. I wouldn’t use it on an open wound, but great for dry skin, itching, minor rashes etc.

Calendula Salve

1/4 c dry calendula flower

1/2 c of your favorite oil (I like grapeseed or sunflower) olive oil works well too.

1/3 c beeswax (add more or less to make salve softer or firmer)

2-3 vit E gel caps (puncture cap and add to your mixture just before pouring into containers)

approximately 8 1oz containers, 4 2oz containers, or just add it all to an 8 oz jar.

Make sure your containers are clean and dry. If you are reusing a container, make extra sure you dry them completely before use. Any moisture will cause mold and your salve will be ruined.

Place your oil into a canning jar, add your herbs and place in double boiler with water in both pans or add water to a small crockpot and place your jar of herbs and oils into the crockpot. The water needs to simmer for about an hour to allow the herbs and oils to make their magic. If you prefer the old-fashioned way, you can add your herbs and oils to the mason jar, place the lid on, shake up and then place in a cool dark place for 5-6 weeks. Shake a couple of times a week. The next steps are the same no matter what method you use. Strain your herbs into a small sauce pan and add the beeswax. On low-med heat allow the beeswax to melt into the oils until completely melted. Do not let boil! Add the contents of your vit E capsules, blend and pour into your containers. Allow to cool for a couple of hours before putting on the lids to prevent condensation. And there you have it! A wonderful natural healing salve.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact me. Until next time.

Anna