Just when we think cold and flu season is almost behind us…enter the late winter cold. In our house, that means asthma is flaring, sinuses are clogged, and the cough is aggressive. This salve recipe is a must for our herbal medicine cabinet.
If you get hit hard when you get sick, or when chronic respiratory conditions like asthma act up, a good herbal chest rub makes a huge difference.
This soothing, decongesting salve is made with respiratory-supporting herbs like camphor, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender, infused into olive oil for a gentle, effective herbal remedy without all the nasty commercial petroleum-based ingredients and artificial fragrances.
You can also add essential oils for an extra punch of relief.
Why These Herbs?
Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)
- Clears nasal congestion and promotes deeper breathing
- Opens the lungs and relieves coughing
- Warming and stimulating to the respiratory system
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
- Natural expectorant, helps loosen mucus
- Antimicrobial and antiviral properties
- Supports easier breathing by opening airways
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
- Cooling and soothing for inflamed airways
- Antispasmodic properties help calm coughs
- Increases circulation, helping to relieve tightness in the chest
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Calming and anti-inflammatory
- Helps relax the nervous system to ease breathing
- Gentle enough for children and those with sensitive skin
This herbal chest rub is a staple in my apothecary, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours, too! You can store it in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
Herbal Chest Rub "Herbal Vicks"
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Olive or Coconut Oil
- 2 Tbsp Beeswax
- 2 Tbsp Dried Camphor
- 1 Tbsp Dried Eucalyptus
- 1 Tbsp Dried Lavender Blossoms
- 1 Tbsp Dried Peppermint
- 10 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil (optional)
- 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil (optional)
- 5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (optional)
Instructions
- Infuse the dried herbs into the oil (slow or fast infusion method will work).
- Strain herbs and press well.
- Warm the oil and the beeswax to as close to the same temperature as possible.
- Keep the temperature to 100ºF or under.
- Blend them together and mix until they are fully incorporated.
- Add essential oils as desired.
- Pour into containers with airtight lids and let them set fully with the lid off.
- Store at room temperature and keep it out of direct sunlight or heat.
- Apply as needed for respiratory support and to ease chest congestion.
