DIY Cough and Cold Salve Recipe

by Brittny Johnson September 12, 2024

Cough and Cold Salve Recipe: A Natural Remedy for Respiratory Relief

Seasonal colds can leave you feeling congested and uncomfortable. This natural cough and cold salve is an effective, soothing remedy that helps ease breathing, reduce congestion, and calm symptoms. Packed with herbal powerhouses like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender, it’s safe for both adults and children (with proper dilution). Plus, it’s free from artificial ingredients, making it a gentle and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought vapor rubs.

This homemade salve is a soothing blend of natural herbs and essential oils that can help ease coughs and congestion. It’s perfect for applying to the chest, back, neck, or feet during cold season.

Ingredients and Benefits

Each ingredient in this salve has been carefully chosen for its unique properties. Together, they work synergistically to relieve cold symptoms:

Eucalyptus: Known for its potent decongestant properties, eucalyptus essential oil helps open up the airways, making it easier to breathe. It is often used in respiratory blends for its ability to break up mucus and relieve coughs.
Lavender: Lavender is more than just a calming scent. Its anti-inflammatory and calming properties help reduce discomfort while promoting relaxation, which is especially beneficial when colds make it hard to sleep.
Peppermint: This oil contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation and helps clear congested airways. Peppermint also relieves headaches and sinus pressure that often accompany colds.
Rosemary: This herb supports healthy lung function and relieves throat irritation caused by persistent coughing. Rosemary’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce chest tightness.
Chamomile: Known for its soothing qualities, chamomile can calm both the respiratory system and the mind, helping you rest more comfortably.

Why Use a Natural Salve?

Unlike commercial vapor rubs that may contain synthetic chemicals, this natural salve is free from artificial ingredients, making it safe for the entire family. Each component is chosen for its specific role in supporting respiratory health, providing both immediate relief and long-term benefits.

By incorporating nature’s most trusted herbs and oils, this Cough and Cold Salve not only alleviates symptoms but also nourishes the skin and supports overall well-being.

Ingredients:

Base Ingredients

4 oz Coconut oil (a nourishing carrier oil that also penetrates the skin deeply)
2 tsp Shea butter (moisturizes and supports skin healing) - can omit, just add 2tsp of coconut oil to the 4 oz)
1 tbsp Beeswax (provides structure to the salve and locks in moisture)

Dried Herbs

2 tbsp Dried eucalyptus
1 tsp Dried lavender
2 tbsp Dried peppermint
1 tsp Dried rosemary
1 tsp Dried chamomile
1 tsp Dried Thyme

Essential Oils

10-20 drops Lavender essential oil
15-30 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
15-30 drops Peppermint essential oil
10-20 drops Chamomile essential oil
5-10 drops Rosemary essential oil
5-10 drops Rosemary essential oil

Instructions:

Infuse the herbs: Measure the coconut oil into a heat-safe bowl and add the dried herbs (eucalyptus, lavender, thyme, peppermint, rosemary, and chamomile). Use a double boiler on medium-low heat to gently infuse the oil for 1-2 hours, stirring frequently to ensure the herbs are evenly dispersed.
Optional blending: If desired, blend the infused oil and herbs for a smoother consistency.
Strain the oil: Allow the herbal oil to cool slightly, then strain it through cheesecloth into a clean, heatproof bowl. Squeeze the cheesecloth to extract as much oil as possible.
Melt the salve base: Add the shea butter and beeswax to the strained herbal oil. Heat the mixture in a double boiler on medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the beeswax has completely melted.
Add essential oils: Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to about 100°F (38°C). Stir in the essential oils according to your preference:
- For children ages 10 months to 3 years: Use the lower end of the essential oil range.
- Note: Do not use essential oils on babies under 9 months old.
Pour into containers: Pour the salve into glass jars or tins, and allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Enjoy: Your soothing salve is ready to use! Apply it to the chest, back, neck, or feet as needed for relief.

Customization Options

This salve is versatile and can be adapted to suit your personal preferences:

For Sensitive Skin: Consider using gentler oils like chamomile and reducing the amount of eucalyptus or peppermint, which can be strong for delicate skin.
For Adults: You can increase the amount of essential oils within the recommended ranges to create a stronger, more potent salve.
For a Vegan Version: Replace beeswax with candelilla wax to create a vegan-friendly salve without affecting the consistency.

Storage and Shelf Life
Store your salve in a cool, dark place in a glass jar or tin with a secure lid. When stored properly, it can last up to 6 months to a year. If the salve starts to smell off or change in texture, it's time to make a fresh batch.

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

Whenever possible, use organic, ethically sourced ingredients in your salve to ensure the highest quality. Choosing herbs and oils from sustainable sources not only benefits your health but also supports environmentally responsible farming practices.

Safety Tips

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care. For infants and young children, use the lowest recommended amount of essential oils, and avoid applying the salve near their faces. Pregnant women and individuals with sensitive skin should consult a healthcare provider before using any product containing essential oils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this salve be used on children?
Yes, but use the lower end of the essential oil range for children between 10 months and 3 years old. Avoid using essential oils on babies under 9 months old.

Can I substitute other oils for coconut oil?
Yes! You can use sweet almond oil or olive oil as alternatives, both of which are nourishing and gentle on the skin.

How often should I apply the salve?
You can apply the salve 2-3 times a day or as needed, especially before bedtime for overnight relief.

This natural cough and cold salve offers a gentle, effective way to ease respiratory discomfort using the healing power of nature. Whether you’re caring for yourself or your loved ones, this soothing balm is a comforting addition to any wellness routine during cold season. Free from synthetic chemicals, it’s safe for the whole family, offering relief that you can feel good about.

This information should not replace the medical advice of a health care professional. Always seek medical advice when necessary.