Homemade Topical Balm

Years ago, I had an ingrown cuticle that got infected, I tried every OTC anti-bacterial gel, ointment, and concoction I could find. Nothing was helping, and I did not want to go to the doctor; I didn't see any need for another bill that I really couldn't afford.

Back then, our Pastor was associated with a "wellness" company that had discovered how to include tea-tree oil in their products. This company is still in business today. Unfortunately, despite the quality of their products, not everyone has access to a distributor or can afford them.

Here is a homemade version of a topical solution using tea-tree oil and other natural ingredients.

This is a calming topical gel/balm intended for minor skin irritations such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and burns. Tea-tree oil is the key ingredient in this balm because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients

• 10g (about 2 tsp) pure tea tree essential oil

• 10g (about 2 tsp) cocoa butter (for rich moisturizing)

• 10g (about 2 tsp) beeswax pellets (for structure and a ventilated barrier)

• 15g (about 1 tbsp) wheat germ oil (for vitamin E and skin nourishment; substitute with jojoba or sweet almond oil if unavailable)

• 15g (about 1 tbsp) vitamin E oil or a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil (to boost antioxidants and dilute slightly for safety)

• Optional: 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil (for added soothing; enhances calming effect)

Helpful tools:

Kitchen scale

Digital Kitchen Scale with adjustable measurements, for grams, ounces, etc.

Scale with the plate before "zeroing" out

Scale with plate after "zeroing out"

Beeswax and grater

Grated beeswax

Cocoa butter

Instructions

Prepare your workspace: Use a double boiler (or a heat-safe glass bowl over a pot of simmering water) to gently melt ingredients. Work in a well-ventilated area due to the strong tea tree scent.

Melt the base: Add the cocoa butter and beeswax to the double boiler. Heat on low until fully melted (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally. Avoid direct heat to prevent scorching.

Cocoa butter and beeswax in the double boiler

Melted beeswax and cocoa butter

Incorporate oils: Remove from heat. Stir in the wheat germ oil, vitamin E oil (or carrier oil), and tea tree essential oil. If using lavender, add it here. Mix thoroughly until smooth. The mixture will be liquid but will solidify as it cools.

Pour and cool: Pour into a clean, sterilized container

Let it cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours until firm. It should have a soft, spreadable balm texture like lip balm.

Store: Keep in a cool, dark place. Shelf life is 6-12 months due to the natural preservatives in the oils and vitamin E.

How to Use:

• For best results, apply a drop of pure tea tree oil directly to the affected area first (minor cut, bite, or scrape).

• Then, rub a thin layer of the balm over it to seal in the oil. The beeswax creates a breathable barrier that moisturizes without clogging pores.

• Reapply 2-3 times daily. It's great for dry skin, chapped lips, or as a spot treatment.

• Avoid open wounds or sensitive areas; discontinue if irritation occurs. Not for internal use.