Brenda's Beeswax Balm Recipe

I found this recipe in the May 20, 2010 issue of the The San Mateo Daily Journal in the suburban living section of the paper. The article titled "A Beeswax balm you can make yourself" was written by Sean Conway.

Brenda Brock, owner of Farm Aesthetics, a company that creates organic skincare for select spas, boutiques and high-end hotels stopped by to tape a segment for the show, "Culivating Life".

Tools

Quart size storage jar with cover
Strainer
Cheesecloth
Double Boiler
Small new or recycled containers

Ingredients

1/2 cup of packed lemon balm leaves, washed & dryed
1/2 cup organic almond, grape seed or soy oil
1/8 teaspoon vitamin E
1/4 teaspoon of pink grapefruit essential oil

Instructions

Start by putting lemon balm leave in the jar, then pour over the almond oil and the vitamin E. Cover tightly and set aside mixture in a dark place for a week or longer. This will allow the essential oil of the lemon balm to infuse the oil.

Strain the infused oil twice through a strainer lined with cheesecloth to separate oils from the lemon balm leaves. Discard the lemon balm.

In a double boiler, combine the infused oil and beeswax. Heat gently (but do not boil) until the beeswax is melted. Remove from heat and add grapefruit essential oil. Pour into tine lip pots, jars or tubes. Allow to cool. Cap securely.

Note: It is not mentioned all citrus essential oils are photosensitive which means that you can develop a rash or sunburn. So I would not recommend wearing this lip balm out in the sun.