If you already have made the infused oil you may use that as the base for the ointment. If not, then start from the beginning.

* 1 oz. (30gm) dried or wilted herb self-heal flowers and herb (most of the water needs to be gone)
* 8 oz. high quality vegetable oil. Olive oil is usually used, but other vegetable oils may also be used. Canola and corn oil are not used, normally. Petroleum jelly may also be used and produces a product that is waterproof for a longer period of time.
* Clean glass or plastic ointment jars with lids.
* Cheesecloth or muslin for straining the oil
* 8-9 Tablespoons of grated beeswax
* Vitamin E oil

In a double boiler, heat the oil and the herb over simmering water for 2-3 hours. Do not fry the herb. OR Place the herb and oil in a clean, clear glass jar and allow to steep for 2-4 weeks. Shake daily. Placing the jar in a warm, sunny location speeds the process. When the infused oil is ready, pour it through cheesecloth to strain out the herb.

Pour the strained oil into the top of the double boiler and heat gently; add the beeswax. Stir gently until melted. Test for consistency by placing a spoonful of ointment in the refrigerator for 5 minutes until hardened. Add more beeswax, if needed. (I find 1 tablespoon of grated beeswax/ 1 oz. oil works well, but you can experiment.)

Add 10-12 drops of vitamin E oil and stir. Vitamin E oil is an antioxidant and helps preserve the finished product. Pour warm ointment into clean jars; cover loosely with wax paper or paper towel until cool. Cover tightly with jar lids and label.

Herbal ointments usually keep for up to 1 year.