Have you been on the lookout for a natural, gentle solution for pain, inflammation, or just a bit of tender love and care for your skin? Here is a super simple, yet incredibly effective, recipe to create your own cannabis salve at home. Discover their many benefits, from potentially easing aches and pains to kissing goodbye to dry, itchy skin. Plus, with easy alternative options and tips on where to purchase salve, you’re all set for a smoother, more elevated skincare experience.
Table of Contents
- Recipe Features
- Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Cannabis Salve Recipe with THC or CBD Recipe
- What You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Storage Instructions
- Alternate Cannabis Infusion Options
- Benefits of Cannabis Salve
- What Conditions Can It Help?
- Notes and Expert Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- More Topicals For You
Recipe Features
- An easy, step-by-step guide to making a nourishing infused salve.
- Multiple infusion options to customize the potency and benefits.
- Want to make it easy? Skip the hard work and purchase my cannabis salve or a CBD salve stick – now delivering across the US!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Cannabis topical products are getting a lot of buzz in my Well With Cannabis Community, and for a good reason!
One night, I tried some leftover infused coconut oil on my hands after gardening, and woke up to softer, calmer skin than I’d felt in ages. It felt like uncovering a little secret for gentle, plant-based care.
That’s why I love this simple recipe: it’s a way to soothe, moisturize, and support your skin with ingredients you trust, no mystery chemicals needed. I hope this homemade salve brings the same comfort and relief to your skincare routine as it has to mine.
Unlike generic products, a homemade salve can be tailored to your needs: whether you’re hoping to calm chronic dryness, ease post-exercise soreness, or nurture sensitive skin. I truly believe you’ll love the gentle, restorative touch this recipe brings to your self-care routine, just as I have.
- Soothing Skin Irritation: Ideal for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and general dryness.
- Localized Pain Relief: May ease sore muscles, joint stiffness, and menstrual cramps.
- Daily Skincare: Use it as a protective barrier on hands, feet, and elbows to lock in moisture.
This guide will walk you through every step, from choosing your cannabis infusion to customizing the scent, empowering you to create a truly personal and effective skincare solution.
Cannabis Salve Recipe with THC or CBD
Watch the Video
What You Need
- 2 teaspoons beeswax pellets
- 2 teaspoons cacao butter
- 8 teaspoons cannabis-infused oil
- 10 drops essential oil of choice
- 1 mL cannabis concentrate optional
Instructions
- If you haven't already, the first step is to choose your infusion method of choice. You can find many infusion options listed above. If needed, prepare your cannabis oil ahead of time.
- Prepare a double boiler with water in the bottom pan and place it over low heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the beeswax and cacao butter to the top portion of the double boiler and allow them to melt completely.
- Once they have melted, add in the prepared cannabis oil mixture and essential oils. Stir until all of the ingredients are well combined.
- If you are planning on adding a cannabis concentrate or any other ingredient, stir it in now and mix until everything is well combined. Then turn off the heat.
- Carefully transfer the hot liquid salve to a small glass jar or storing vessel of choice. You can use a pipette to make this easy.
- Allow the salve to cool to room temperature and then cover tightly with the lid.
- Store your salve in a cool dark place until ready to use.
Notes
What You’ll Need
This recipe combines nourishing butters and waxes with cannabis-infused oil to create a luxurious and effective final product.
- 2 teaspoons Beeswax Pellets (10 grams): This creates the structure of your salve. I recommend organic, cosmetic-grade beeswax pellets as they melt easily and evenly.
- 2 teaspoons Cacao Butter (10 grams): Known for its moisturizing properties and delightful subtle scent, raw cacao butter adds a rich, creamy texture.
- 8 teaspoons Cannabis-Infused Oil (40mL): This is your active ingredient. You can use homemade cannabis oil, my Bliss MCT oil, or concentrates. See the infusion options below for more details.
- 5-10 drops Essential Oils: For added therapeutic benefits and a pleasant aroma. Lavender, frankincense, and tea tree oil are excellent choices for skincare.
- Optional ingredients – Feel free to add preservatives like potassium sorbate for longer-term storage. Optionally, you can add Vitamin E Oil. A few drops can act as a natural preservative and provide extra antioxidant benefits for the skin.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Infusion: The first step is to have your cannabis-infused oil ready. If you are making it from scratch, do this ahead of time. See the “Alternate Cannabis Infusion Options” section below for guidance.
- Set Up the Double Boiler: Fill the bottom pan of your double boiler with an inch or two of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over low heat.
- Melt Waxes and Butters: Add the beeswax pellets and cacao butter to the top portion of the double boiler. Allow them to melt completely, stirring occasionally.
- Combine with Oil: Once melted, pour in your prepared cannabis-infused oil. Stir gently until all ingredients are fully combined into a smooth, uniform liquid.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Remove the mixture from the heat. This is the time to stir in your essential oils and vitamin E oil, if using.
- Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the hot liquid into your small glass jars or tins. Let the salve sit undisturbed at room temperature until it cools and solidifies completely. This can take a few hours.
- Store: Once firm, seal the containers tightly. Store your salve in a cool, dark place.
Storage Instructions
The shelf life of your homemade salve depends on the freshness of your ingredients. To ensure the best quality and prevent spoilage, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place like a cabinet or drawer.
- For a longer shelf life (several months), keep it in the refrigerator. This will also give it a firmer texture.
- Always use clean hands or a small scoop to remove the salve from the jar to avoid introducing bacteria.
- If you notice any change in smell, color, or see signs of mold, discard it immediately.
Alternate Cannabis Infusion Options
As with all things cannabis, there are numerous ways to reach the final result.
For this salve, there are many different infusion options you can choose from to make a product with the best results for you and your needs.
Homemade Cannabis Oil
My salve recipe uses this floral cannabis-infused oil recipe as the base, which allows you to infuse in many other botanical ingredients that contribute to a great final product.
You can choose to use a THC flower, CBD flower, or CBG flower to get the benefit of each particular cannabinoid.
You can also use homemade CBD oil, CBG oil, or CBN oil, depending on the effect you are looking for.
You can easily swap the carrier oil in your homemade infusion. Popular carrier oils include:
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- MCT oil
- Avocado oil
- Jojoba seed oil or organic jojoba oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Safflower oil
- Hemp seed oil
- Grape seed oil
Store-Bought Cannabis Oil
You can easily make this recipe with high-quality store-bought cannabis oil like the ones for sale in my shop.
They come in a wide variety of strengths, so it might take some experimentation to find which product works best for your needs.
With this method, you can make a salve with your desired cannabinoids like:
Cannabis Concentrate
Having access to raw cannabis flowers is not always possible, which is why I included the option to infuse this salve with cannabis concentrates.
CBD concentrate is legal in most states and can be purchased online, and THC concentrate can be purchased at a dispensary in a legal state.
Concentrates can come in many different forms, including full-extract cannabis oil, also known as FECO.
In a small syringe, you will get anywhere between 500mg-1,000mg of activated CBD or THC in just a small 1mL volume.
This allows you to create a stronger salve without the excess volume of carrier oil.
If you choose to use a concentrate for your salve, I still recommend making the floral-infused oil, with or without cannabis, as this allows you to infuse in more botanical ingredients.
Benefits of Cannabis Salve
Cannabis topicals have many potential health benefits.
These salves are a great alternative to products containing harsh chemicals or prescription medications, which may have unwanted side effects.
Cannabis salves provide quick, localized relief for pain, soreness, or swelling.
The topical application of cannabis, for external use only, can help:
- Skin disorders like eczema or psoriasis
- Relieve chronic pain from inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
- To soothe sore muscles, muscle aches, and joint pain
- Soothe menstrual cramps
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What Conditions Can It Help?
Homemade cannabis salve may help to relieve some of your most unwanted symptoms, like pain, dry skin, itchiness, and more.
Arthritis
Arthritis is caused by inflammation in the joints and often causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and soreness.
Arthritis usually appears in people over the age of 65 and can limit your range of motion, making it difficult to do things you once loved.
Some studies show that topical cannabis can help to relieve these symptoms1.
Cannabis Salve for Skin Conditions
Millions of people in the US are affected by skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Though the causes of these conditions are still not well-understood, some medical professionals believe that they are an immune system reaction.
Cannabis is thought to help bolster our immune system, protecting us from disease while at the same time suppressing unnecessary immune reactions present in auto-immune disorders2.
Minor Injuries
Scrapes, burns, abrasions, and insect bites are an annoying but inevitable part of life.
The itchiness, stinging, and soreness associated with these minor injuries aren’t life-threatening, but they can be distracting.
Cannabis is now being studied for its wound-healing properties, which means cannabis salve may help relieve your discomfort from minor injuries3.
Notes and Expert Tips
- If you’re making this recipe at home for the first time, feel free to experiment with a non-cannabis-infused oil, like calendula oil, to practice the technique. Good luck!
- Before starting, place the jars you plan on filling onto a baking sheet. This will help prevent them from spilling if you need to move them before they solidify.
- One of the first things you should do is sanitize all of your equipment, jars, and utensils that you will be working with. This can prevent any mold or spoilage in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Making a topical cannabis salve at home isn’t for everyone, which is why I am happy to offer my own cannabis salve for sale in my shop. I’ve included ingredients like peppermint and tea tree oil to help open the pores, arnica, and lemongrass to provide deep relaxation, and beeswax and full-spectrum hemp extract to revive the skin. With all-natural ingredients, this salve offers revival and recovery – even if you can never stop moving!
No. While the THC in cannabis is an intoxicating substance, these salves will not have any psychoactive effects because they don’t penetrate the bloodstream. Instead, the compounds found in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, interact with the cannabinoid receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system.
It is easy to make CBD products at home with CBD flower. This is a good option for those who want all of the benefits of CBD without the excess THC, which is good for some people.
Yes! Transdermal patches are a popular way to medicate. This method holds the product directly onto the skin with small pieces of medical tape. The main difference is how much time the product spends in contact with the skin, increasing the chances that it can be absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin. It is the perfect way to achieve long-lasting relief.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your own cannabis salve is not just an educational resource but also much fun and a great way to tailor topical applications to your specific needs.
Whether you’re dealing with muscle pain, skin irritation, or just looking for additional ways to utilize cannabis productively, creating your own salve using a slow cooker, or other methods, is a great option.
This step-by-step guide on crafting a CBD salve recipe or a more traditional cannabis salve recipe offers you the freedom to experiment with how much cannabis you use, the kind of oil infusions you prefer, and even the addition of topical lotions to your regimen.
Whether used as a muscle rub or simply to soothe minor irritations, your personal favorite concoction can become a staple in your self-care routine.
Homemade topical remedies like these are a testament to the versatility of cannabis and how it can be a great way to take control of your health and well-being, making your own medicine for a personalized touch.
I’d love to hear about your adventures in salve making! Share your success stories in the comments below and inspire others on their own natural skincare journey.
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Would it be possible to just use FECO instead of an infused oil? And if so, should I still use an oil, in the same amount listed, or is it not needed if using a FECO?
Thanks!
Great question! Yes, you can absolutely use FECO to make a salve. Because FECO is very thick and sticky, you’ll get the best texture and spreadability by mixing it into a carrier oil first rather than using it alone.
Tips:
Mix FECO with a carrier oil (MCT, olive, or coconut) and gently warm to combine before adding beeswax and other salve ingredients.
You don’t need to use the full amount of infused oil called for in a standard salve recipe—use plain carrier oil plus your chosen amount of FECO to reach your target potency.
A common starting point is about 1 mL FECO per 29 mL oil for a strong infusion, then proceed with your usual salve ratios.
I hope this helps. Happy salve-making! 🌿
Lovely video with a wealth of knowledge, I feel it’s important for viewers to also know that the cannabis doesn’t reach the digestive system more importantly, same as suppository use and why it isn’t intoxicating topically.
Such a wonderful plant with a multitude of uses.
💗🌿
Thank you so much for sharing your kind thoughts, Lee! I completely agree, cannabis is an incredible plant with so many versatile uses. It’s definitely important for people to understand how topical applications work and why they aren’t intoxicating. Since the cannabinoids don’t enter the digestive system in these cases, they interact with localized receptors in the skin rather than affecting the whole body. Similarly, suppository use often bypasses intoxication by avoiding metabolic processes in the liver. This knowledge helps deepen our appreciation for the plant’s potential and its variety of applications. 🌿💗
Hello,
I cannot thank you enough for the salve recipe. The very first time I made it, I had a little left in my pot which I put on my eczema that night. Lo and behold, the eczema was completely gone the next morning where I had put the salve. A miracle, after all the different things I had tried on this short of seeing a dermatologist and expensive scips. It hasn’t come back yet either. Will make sure to send some to my brother for his eczema when my sister gets here this year to visit (Germany).
Then, I brought some to my hairdresser who has fought rosacea for years. She called me last week and said she needed some more because it is working better for her than anything she has used, including prescription creams. My friend tried it on her sore neck after yard work and it did the trick for her. Hoping to find out soon how another friend fared with it and her psoriasis. She lives out of town and I gave her some several weeks ago when she was here.
I used MCT oil infused with activated THC for the recipe and added a mold inhibitor to be on the safe side.
Please know that I am very grateful for your website and all those wonderful recipes (friends love those suckers to help sleep).
Thank you, thank you, thank you
❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
Wow, Karin, I can’t tell you how much your message made my day! 😊 I am so happy to hear how well the salve has worked for you and your loved ones. It’s incredible to know it has brought so much relief, from soothing your eczema to helping your hairdresser’s rosacea and even easing your friend’s sore neck. Stories like yours are why I do what I do, and I truly appreciate you sharing such thoughtful feedback. Thank YOU for taking the time to spread kindness and share your results!
Can’t wait to try this, THANK YOU!
Love this! Let us know how it works for you, Ellen!
Hi, I have access to an autoclave that I use for food. Does anyone have experience with autoclave and canabis.
Hi Kjell. I’d recommend caution, as autoclave settings for cannabis may differ from food. Make sure to research proper temperatures and pressures to avoid compromising quality!
Emily I love your site. Can I substitute cacao butter for another oil in your salve?
Thank You
Hi Heather! You can definitely substitute cacao butter with another oil, like coconut oil, but it may slightly change the texture of the salve. Let us know how it turns out! 😊
How much does this recipe yield (ounces, grams, etc.)? I need to know how many jars to have on hand.
This recipe yields approximately 2 ounces of salve. You can adjust the measurements accordingly to make a larger batch, but it is recommended to use within 3-4 weeks to ensure freshness and potency.
Hi I noticed the shelve life is short
Is there a preservative that could be used ✌️
Hi! Thank you for your question 😊 The shelf life of the cannabis salve can vary depending on the ingredients used and how it’s stored. To extend its shelf life, you can try adding a natural preservative like vitamin E oil, which helps prevent oxidation. Storing the salve in a cool, dark place in an airtight container can also make a big difference. Let us know if you have any other questions! ✌️
I need help I went through cancer?what can I use ?
Thank you for reaching out Lorena, and I’m sorry to hear about your experience with cancer. If you’re looking for guidance on using cannabis, I recommend checking out this detailed article: https://emilykylenutrition.com/how-to-use-cannabis/. It provides helpful information on the different ways to use cannabis, as well as tips to find what might work best for you. A good starting point is to identify the specific ailments you want cannabis to help with, as this can guide you in choosing the right products to experiment with. Hope it helps! Sending healing vibes your way!
The recipe lists cannabis concentrate however, the link doesn’t work. How do we make cannabis concentrate?
Hi Kristina. If you’re looking to make cannabis concentrate at home, I’d recommend trying the Full Extract Cannabis Oil (FECO) method. It’s one of the most effective ways to create a potent, full-spectrum concentrate using minimal equipment. We have a fantastic guide on how to make FECO at home, which you can check out here: https://emilykylenutrition.com/full-extract-cannabis-oil-feco/. This method preserves the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes, making it a great option as a homemade cannabis concentrates. Hope this helps!
Just curious since I found conflicting information searching for it – what’s the difference between the cocoa butter and cacao butter? Why is cacao butter preferred?
I’m so happy you reached out with this question, Ronnie! While both cocoa butter and cacao butter come from the cacao plant, cacao butter is typically considered more raw and minimally processed, preserving more natural nutrients. This might be why you’ve seen it preferred in certain recipes or contexts. Remember, though, both have their unique benefits, so feel free to experiment and find what suits your taste best! 🌿
Can you skip the beeswax and use 100% cocao butter?
Yes JL, you can substitute beeswax with 100% cocoa butter in the cannabis salve recipe. However, keep in mind that cocoa butter has a different texture and melting point, which might affect the final consistency of the salve. It’s worth experimenting to find the right balance that works for you!
Used Cocoa by mistake for salve did I ruin it
Using cocoa in your salve shouldn’t ruin it, Gary! Cocoa can add a nice texture and moisturizing properties. However, if you’re concerned about the effects, you might want to test a small amount on your skin first. Let us know how it turns out!
Hello , thank you so much for the great information. I’m wanting to make the salve for my grandfathers arthritis. I have a few questions. How to do make the cannabis flower? Do you just put it in a food processor? Also how many milligrams of the are in this recipe? Thank you Rhiannon
Hi Rhiannon! I’m glad you found the information helpful. To make the cannabis flower for your salve, you’ll want to decarboxylate the flower first, which activates the cannabinoids. Using a food processor to break it down further isn’t necessary.
As for dosage, you can use our online calculator to calculate the strength of your salve based on the specific potency of your cannabis. I recommend checking it out for precise calculations. Best of luck with your salve for your grandfather!
Have you ever added Magnesium to your Cannabis Salve? What are your thoughts on doing this?
Absolutely, GladysMae! I’ve experimented with adding magnesium to my cannabis salve, and I found it to be a beneficial addition. Magnesium is known for its muscle-relaxing properties and can enhance the soothing effect of the salve, making it great for those tense areas. However, like any ingredient, it’s important to ensure it dissolves evenly to maintain the salve’s consistency. 😊 Feel free to try it out and see how it works for you!
Thank you for sharing. I made topical oil for pain it is first attempt and your guide is awesome. Pain in knees not completely gone but pain tolerance is better.
Thanks for sharing
Thank you for your feedback, Jamie! We’re so happy the guide was helpful for your first attempt! Even if the pain isn’t completely gone, it’s great that you’re seeing improvements in your pain tolerance. Keep experimenting, and I hope you continue to find relief!