Herbal Healing Salves

As a mama, you know how a simple touch, a gentle hand, and a little bit of care soothe our little ones.

Herbal salves are just that, little jars filled with nature, God’s creation, packed with healing, soothing, and protective powers. They are a tangible way to care for our families and ourselves.

Inspired by the Biblical ’Balm of Gilead’ in Jeremiah 8:22. The balm of Gilead was a source of healing. Even today, we have our own gifts from God’s creation; herbs, oils, and waxes that bring comfort to the little hurts of life.

“Surely there is a balm in the land of Gilead. Surely there is a doctor there. So why aren’t the hurts of my people healed?” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭8‬:‭22‬ ‭ICB‬‬

What Is a Herbal Salve?

A herbal salve is a blend of healing herbs, nourishing oils, and protective waxes that you rub directly onto your skin. Unlike lotions or creams, which are mostly water-based, salves are oil-based, making them rich, protective, and long-lasting.

Common Ingredients

Herbs, such as Calendula, Lavender, Chamomile, Frankincense, Comfrey, Mint, Plantain, and Rose, are nature’s gifts from God for soothing and restorative skin-healing purposes.
Oils: such as Olive, coconut, sunflower, or jojoba oil that absorb and deliver the healing properties of the herbs.
Waxes & Butters: Beeswax, shea, or cocoa butter give the salve structure and protective qualities.
Optional extras: Essential oils like frankincense or lavender for added fragrance and comfort.

Why Moms Love Herbal Salves

Heal & soothe: Perfect for scraped knees, chapped lips, dry skin, bruises, or slight burns.
Protect & moisturize: Lock in moisture and shield skin from dryness.
Gentle & natural: Free from harsh chemicals, safe for little ones and sensitive skin.
A daily reminder of God’s care: Every time you rub it on, you’re reminded that God gives us creation for our good

How to Use the balm at Home

Keep a salve in your bag, baby bag, or medicinal apothecary. When your little one scrapes a knee, clean it with water + sea salt, whisper a small prayer, and rub on some salve, followed by a hug and a kiss. Take a small amount in your hands and gently rub it onto the affected area, such as the knees, hands, lips, or a sore spot. These small moments of care turn everyday bumps into reminders of God’s love.

A Modern-Day Balm of Gilead

Herbal salves are a practical, tangible reminder of God’s provision. Just like the Balm of Gilead brought comfort and healing, a simple herbal salve can bring soothing care to your family, and yourself.

Salves may be small, but they carry big meaning. They bring healing, protection, and comfort, one gentle rub at a time.

Mama Tip: Keep a small jar at home and another in your bag. For scraped knees, dry hands, or even a quiet moment for yourself, it’s a small way to let God’s care touch your day. A scrape, a dry patch, or a rough heel can all be comforted with a gentle touch of healing salve.

Note: Do not use on damaged skin or open wounds.

Patch test before use.

Biblical Inspiration

The Bible mentions several healing balms:

Balm of Gilead (Jeremiah 8:22) — a resin known for its soothing and restorative powers.
used for anointing, comfort, and fragrant healing.
often used for anointing the sick.

1. Genesis 1:29 – God gives plants for our use

“God said, “Look, I have given you all the plants that have grain for seeds. And I have given you all the trees whose fruits have seeds in them. They will be food for you.” ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭29‬ ‭ICB‬‬

Food nourishes and nurtures and is used for general wellbeing including healing.

2. Ezekiel 47:12 – Trees for healing

“All kinds of fruit trees will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not dry and die. The trees will have fruit every month because the water for them comes from the Temple. The fruit from the trees will be for food. And their leaves will be for medicine.”” ‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭47‬:‭12‬ ‭ICB‬‬

3. Revelation 22:2 – The tree of life

“down the middle of the street of the city. The tree of life was on each side of the river. It produces fruit 12 times a year, once each month. The leaves of the tree are for the healing of all people.” ‭‭Revelation‬ ‭22‬:‭2‬ ‭ICB‬‬

4. Jeremiah 8:22 – Balm of Gilead

“Surely there is a balm in the land of Gilead. Surely there is a doctor there. So why aren’t the hurts of my people healed?” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭8‬:‭22‬ ‭ICB‬‬

5. Song of Solomon 4:14 – Aromatic and healing plants

“It also has saffron, calamus and cinnamon. It is filled with trees of incense, myrrh and aloes— all the best spices.” ‭‭Song of Songs‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬ ‭ICB‬‬

6. Exodus 30:25 – the art of the apothecary

“and thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.” ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭30‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Isaiah 1:6 – Softened with oil

“From the sole of the foot even to the head There is nothing healthy in the nation’s body, Only bruises, welts, and raw wounds, Not pressed out or bandaged, Nor softened with oil [as a remedy].” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Isaiah 1:6 – Pouring Oil on wounds

“and went to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them [to sooth and disinfect the injuries]; and he put him on his own pack-animal, and brought him to an inn and took care of him.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭34‬ ‭AMP‬

James 5:14 – Oil for healing the sick

“If one of you is sick, he should call the church’s elders. The elders should pour oil on him in the name of the Lord and pray for him.” ‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭ICB‬‬

Biblical teaching supports that God gave plants, trees, and herbs not just for food or fragrance, but for healing, medicine, and care. Herbal salves are a tangible way to use God’s creation for comfort and restoration.

Shalom,

Following God’s Ways,

Natasha Chetty.