I just love a good salve or any healing balm. Maybe it’s the smooth glide, maybe it’s the calming aroma, or maybe it’s that instant little moment of self-care it gives you in the middle of a busy day. Whatever it is, I’ve become a full-blown salve girlie — and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
Peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree — give me all the scents! I stash tins of salve in my purse, my nightstand, my car… everywhere. Even my kid has hopped on the salve train and now asks for “the peppermint rub” before bed.
And because I’ve been slowly swapping my everyday products for more natural, non-toxic alternatives, I decided it was time to try making my own. And guess what?
IT. IS. SO. EASY.
Seriously — one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” moments.
Below is the exact recipe I now make on repeat during the holidays. It’s festive, soothing, giftable, and smells like a spa dressed up for Christmas. But seriously, this isn't just for the holidays. I am using it everyday for sure!
Why Peppermint Salve?
Peppermint salve is more than a cute holiday DIY — it’s a powerhouse.
Naturally cooling and refreshing
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which gives that immediately soothing, cooling sensation on the skin. Perfect for temples, wrists, or tired muscles.
Mood-boosting benefits
Scents like peppermint and eucalyptus help me breathe again on stressful days. A quick dab on my wrists = instant reset.
Kid-friendly option
This simple salve is gentle when diluted properly, and the smell is calming — my kid loves it as much as I do!
Non-toxic, clean ingredients
Homemade means you choose what goes in. No petroleum, artificial fragrances, or questionable additives.
Makes adorable gifts
Holiday tins, ribbons — done. Great for teachers, friends, or stocking stuffers.
Holiday Peppermint Salve Recipe
Here’s the simple base recipe I use. You can swap essential oils depending on your mood — peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, or mix them! But for this holiday recipe, I am using just pure peppermint essential oil.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp carrier oil (sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed, or coconut) - I love using coconut oil. It has that sweet scent that I love
- 2 tbsp beeswax pellets
- 15 drops peppermint essential oil- Make sure it's PURE. My absolute favorites are Aura Cacia Essential Oils. They're a trusted company known for producing pure, complete, and unadulterated high-quality oils.
- Optional:
- 5 drops eucalyptus
- 3 drops tea tree
- A pinch of mica for shimmer
- Vitamin E oil for skin-boosting benefits
Tools You’ll Need
- A heat-safe bowl or glass
- Saucepan for double-boiler method
- Stirring spoon
- Small tins or jars with lids
How to Make It (So Easy You’ll Laugh)
1. Melt the oil + beeswax
Use a double boiler to gently melt your carrier oil and beeswax together, stirring occasionally until fully smooth. If you don’t have a double boiler, simply place your oils in a mason jar or heat-resistant bowl and set it on top of a saucepan of boiling water.
2. Remove from heat + add essential oils
Let the mixture cool for about a minute — then add your essential oils. This helps preserve their scent and benefits.
3. Pour into tins
Carefully pour the mixture into clean tins or jars. It will still be liquid at this stage.
4. Let it set
Allow to cool for 10 minutes or more. It will turn into a soft, scoopable balm.
5. Label and enjoy!
Once solid, cap it and take it everywhere like I do. 😉
Download This Free Label and Print
If you’re gifting this salve, you can print this free label I made just for you. Print it on non-glossy sticker paper, cut out the labels, and stick them onto your salve containers.
How I Use My Peppermint Salve
- On my temples when I feel tension
- On my wrists mid-afternoon for a little pick-me-up
- On dry hands
- On my chest for that spa-like cooling feel
- A tiny bit under my nose when I need clarity and calm
- For quick sensory relief during stressful moments
It’s become my tiny portable self-care ritual — reliable, comforting, and made with ingredients I trust.
Make This Your New Holiday Tradition
If you’ve been wanting to switch to more natural, non-toxic products, making your own salve is one of the easiest (and most fun!) places to start. It’s quick, affordable, and customizable — plus, your home will smell amazing while you make it.
I’ve honestly fallen in love with this holiday peppermint salve. It’s calming, refreshing, and brings a touch of joy to even the busiest days. And the fact that my kid enjoys it too? Total win.
Give it a try this season — your future self (and your stressed-out self!) will thank you.
