Soothe sensitive skin and support your immune wellness with this nourishing DIY salve made from Azara Esencial’s Black Seed Oil and Frankincense. Ideal for calming irritated skin, aiding minor healing, and providing comforting chest support during seasonal changes.

Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa)

Immune-Support & Skin Soothing Salve with Black Seed & Frankincense

Black Seed Oil, often called "the seed of blessing," is revered for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties, largely attributed to its active compound, thymoquinone. This salve combines its power with the skin-regenerating and calming effects of Frankincense oil to create a multi-purpose balm for soothing irritated skin, minor abrasions, and supporting overall skin health. It can also be gently massaged onto the chest for a sense of respiratory comfort.

Best For: Soothing irritated or problematic skin (e.g., eczema-prone, psoriasis-prone areas, minor rashes), supporting skin's natural healing, providing a sense of respiratory comfort when applied to the chest. 

Experience Level: Beginner

Ingredients:

• 30ml Black Seed Oil
• 30ml Shea Oil (or 25g Beeswax pastilles for a firmer salve – adjust for desired consistency)
• 30ml Coconut Oil (solid or semi-solid at room temperature)
• 8-10 drops Frankincense Oil
• Optional: 5 drops Lavender Oil for additional calming and skin-soothing benefits.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Vitamin E oil (as an antioxidant and for added skin benefits)

Equipment:

• Small heat-resistant glass beaker or double boiler setup
• Small saucepan
• Stirring rod or small spatula
• Clean, sterilized tins or small jars for storage (approx. 90-100ml total capacity)
• Digital kitchen scale (if using beeswax)

Instructions:

1. Prepare & Sterilize: Ensure all equipment and containers are clean and sterilized.
2. Melt Solids: In the beaker or top of the double boiler, combine the  Shea Oil (or beeswax if using) and Coconut Oil. Gently heat over a pan of simmering water (bain-marie) until completely melted and liquid. Stir occasionally.
3. Remove from Heat & Add Black Seed Oil: Once melted, remove the mixture from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly for a minute or two, then stir in the 30ml of Black Seed Oil. Stir well to combine.
4. Add Macerated Oils & Vitamin E: While the mixture is still liquid but not excessively hot (below 40°C or 104°F is ideal for preserving the essential oil integrity), add the 8-10 drops of Frankincense Oil and Lavender Oil (if using). Add Vitamin E oil if desired. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
5. Pour into Containers: Carefully pour the liquid salve mixture into your clean, sterilized tins or jars.
6. Cool & Solidify: Allow the salve to cool completely at room temperature until it solidifies. This may take a few hours. Do not disturb during this process.
7. Label and Store: Once solid, cap the containers tightly. Label with the product name and date made. Store in a cool, dark place. The salve should last for 6-12 months, especially if Vitamin E is included.

How to Use:

• Take a small amount of salve with clean fingertips.
• Apply gently to affected areas of the skin as needed to soothe irritation, dryness, or minor skin concerns.
• For respiratory comfort, a small amount can be massaged onto the chest and upper back.
• Perform a patch test before first use, especially on sensitive skin, due to the potency of Black Seed Oil.

Creative Customization & Expert Tips:

• For Eczema-Prone Skin: Consider adding 10-15ml of Linseed Oil (rich in Omega-3s) to the recipe (adjusting other oils slightly to maintain consistency) for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Warming Chest Rub Variation: For a more pronounced warming effect for chest application, consider adding 2-3 drops of Ginger Oil or Black Pepper Oil (use with caution and ensure proper dilution).
• Consistency Adjustment: If you prefer a softer salve, slightly reduce the amount of beeswax or Shea Oil. For a firmer salve, increase it slightly.
• Soap Making Consideration: Black Seed Oil can be incorporated into cold process soap recipes for its reputed skin benefits. It is a dark, rich oil with a distinct aroma that may influence the final soap's color and scent. It's generally used as a superfatting oil or a smaller percentage of the main oil blend (e.g., 2-5%) due to its cost and potency. Its fatty acid profile should be considered for its impact on lather and bar hardness. Always use accurate SAP values for formulation.

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