Bug Bite DIY Balm

  | Education Outreach Recipes and DIY

 

Bug Bite DIY Balm

An easy recipe which is ideal for Tweens and Teens, with adult supervision, to make for summer bug bites. Great for adults, too.

  • Pyrex glass measuring cup
  • 16 ounces Olive Oil
  • 2 cups (scant cups) dried Plantain Leaf (Plantago major or Plantago lanceolata)
  • 1 ounce Beeswax Pastilles (Plus a little extra is handy in order to adjust consitency to your liking.)
  • 75 drops total lavender, tea tree, or other essential oils (Optional)

  1. Add dried plantain leaf to a Pyrex measuring cup / jug and stand over a saucepan of barely simmering water. Cover with oil and leave to heat for 3 hours.

  2. Use the thermometer to ensure the temperature is kept low, around 40˚C (104˚F).

To Make the Plantain "Bug-Bite" Salve

  1. Measure out 250ml / 8.5 oz of the prepared plantain oil, and pour back into the Pyrex jug. Stand the jug in a saucepan of barely simmering water again on the stovetop. Once the oil is warm, add beeswax and let melt entirely.

  2. Remove from heat and add essential oils if using, stirring with a glass rod to evenly disperse them.

  3. Work quickly and pour the liquid salve into pre-sterilized individual glass jars, then allow to cool before capping, labelling and dating.

  4. To apply balm rub a small amount into the affected area with clean hands 2-3 times daily. 

Important – This balm is for minor cuts and scrapes, splinters, insect bites & stings, and dry or irritated skin.

If applying to broken skin, be sure to thoroughly cleanse the wound before applying, as balm creates a protective layer, and can trap in dirt.

This recipe is easy enough for a Tween to make, but ONLY with adult overseeing and/or helping.