What is a salve?

July 24, 2024

When it comes to natural remedies, salves are a popular choice for many individuals seeking relief from various ailments. But what exactly is a salve? Let's dive into the world of botanical healing to uncover the answer.

WHAT IS A SALVE?

A salve is a topical product made from natural ingredients such as herbs, oils, and waxes. In our salves, we use herbal infused oils, extracts + a plant based wax. These ingredients are carefully selected for their healing properties and blended together to create a soothing and nourishing product. Salves have been used for centuries as a way to promote skin health, alleviate discomfort, and support overall well-being.

Here at SARAH'S SOAPS, we are proud to sustainably harvest wild botanicals which we then process, dry + infused in to our very own coveted formulas. These harvested botanicals are rich in healing properties for the skin. Our formulas are 100% plant based + vegan!

A sea of freshly poured LAVENDER + ROSEHIP salves after being topped with dried botanicals of lavender buds + rose petals. Crafted by hand in our Ontario based studio!

A HISTORY LESSON ON SALVES

The use of salves dates back to ancient times when people relied on the healing power of plants to treat wounds and skin irritations. Throughout history, different cultures have developed their own unique salve recipes using locally sourced botanicals.

Early Beginnings	The use of salves dates back to ancient civilizations, where natural ingredients like herbs, oils, and resins were combined to create healing balms. In ancient Egypt, for example, salves were used to treat wounds, burns, and skin infections. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical texts in existence, contains recipes for salves made from ingredients like honey, animal fats, and plant extracts.
Medieval Europe	During the Middle Ages, the use of salves continued to be prominent in Europe. Monks and herbalists developed their own recipes for salves using ingredients like beeswax, olive oil, and medicinal herbs. These salves were used to treat a variety of ailments, from skin rashes to joint pain.
The Renaissance	With the arrival of the Renaissance, the study of medicine and pharmacology flourished. Salves became more sophisticated, with the introduction of new ingredients and techniques. Apothecaries began to play a crucial role in the production and distribution of salves, creating specialized ointments for specific conditions.
Modern Times	Today, salves are still widely used in traditional and alternative medicine. While the basic principles of salve-making remain the same, modern technology has allowed for the development of more advanced formulations. Salves are now available in various forms, including creams, gels, and ointments, each designed to target specific skin issues.

From ancient Egypt to modern times, the history of salves is a testament to the enduring power of natural remedies. Whether you're looking to soothe a sunburn or heal a cut, the humble salve continues to be a trusted ally in the world of skincare and healing. These mighty products are multipurpose + can be used head to toe, simplifying your skincare rituals.

Not to mention they are travel friendly, too! Our salves are poured in to recyclable/reusable aluminum tins, which are perfect for on-the-go. Slip your favourite tin in to your purse, pocket or backpack to bring with you on all of your adventures.

SALVES vs. BALMS... THE DIFFERENCE

While the terms "salve" and "balm" are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two. Salves typically have a higher concentration of herbal ingredients compared to balms, making them more potent in their healing properties. Additionally, salves tend to have a thicker consistency than balms, providing a protective barrier on the skin.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SALVE FOR THE JOB

At our SARAH'S SOAPS, we take great care in crafting our salves using wild harvested botanicals to provide effective healing properties. These botanicals are sustainably harvested + carefully processed to preserve their therapeutic benefits. By infusing these botanicals into carrier oils + combining them with plant based candelilla wax, we create potent and effective salves that can be applied directly to the skin.


ARNICA + EUCALYPTUS	CALENDULA + PLANTAIN	LAVENDER + ROSEHIP	WILD SPRUCE + WHITE PINE
An infusion of hardworking, soothing arnica flowers + organic peppermint leaf blended with eucalyptus + ginger essential oils to soothe sore muscles, joints + bruised skin. A cooling salve that brings relief to headaches + migraines.	A carefully crafted blend of reparative wild plantain leaf, chamomile flowers + calendula petals to aid troubled skin. Helps to soothe irritations, rashes, bug bites, burns + protects fresh tattoos. Use on any itchy areas to quickly bring relief.	This floral salves soothes + nourishes skin with flowers of lavender, rose, hibiscus and rosehips along side hydrating shea butter. Use as a solid face and body moisturizer day or night - deeply hydrates dry + sensitive skin. Doubles as a lip butter, too!	Naturally antibacterial + antimicrobial making it a wonderful aid for sores, bruises, slivers, just about anything. Apply to chest + neck to help with decongestion or rub in to palms, gently place over your nose + mouth, and inhale deeply.