Bug Balm Recipe
This recipe makes approximately 4oz (1/2 cup) of bug repellent. It can easily be doubled or tripled, depending on how much you need for your family. This makes a very soft salve which makes application easier. If you prefer a firmer product, you can increase the beeswax until you reach the desired texture. Small 2oz tins are the perfect size for a purse, backpack, or diaper bag, but you can use whatever container you have on hand.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/8 cup shea butter
4 tsp. beeswax granules
12 drops citronella essential oil
8 drops rosemary essential oil
8 drops cedarwood essential oil
8 drops lemongrass essential oil
8 drops eucalyptus or tea tree essential oil
Tools:
Double boiler
Metal whisk
Metal spoon
Tin(s) for finished salve
Instructions:
Bring the water in your double boiler to a boil and then lower heat to medium-low. Add the coconut oil and shea butter and let the two ingredients melt while whisking together. Add the beeswax and whisk the granules into the coconut oil mixture, until completely melted.
At this point, you can test the mixture for texture. Take the back of a metal spoon and dip it in the liquid. Let the spoon cool until the mixture sets up. Test a small bit on your skin to see if you are happy with the texture. If you want it a little firmer, you can add a little more beeswax (add 1/2 tsp. at a time). If you want it softer, you can add a little more shea butter (add 1/2 tsp. at a time).
Once the mixture is the right texture for your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Let the liquid cool for 3-5 minutes and then whisk in the essential oils. Whisk well to ensure everything is combined. Pour the liquid into your tins. Let cool, uncovered at room temperature, before capping.
You can keep the salve at room temperature for easy application. If the salve is exposed to extreme heat, it can melt or become very soft, so use caution when opening, if the tin has been left in a hot car or the sun.
If you prefer not to make your own, we sell this in our Witchy Woman shop.