I am experimenting with beeswax using my existing cream recipes - substituting emulsifying wax with beeswax. Any pointers to ensuring:
1. That the cream doesn't set too hard.
2. That it still crosses the skin barrier.

I understand that castor oil has sometimes been used to increase the effectiveness of herbs soaking into the skin. With thanks.

Hi Christine

I use beeswax in all my salves in the ratio of 1oz beeswax to 8fl ozs oils. The oil in which you infuse the herbs will affect how easily it passes through the skin. Olive oil is supposed to be better than sunflower in this respect, but I only use it for "heavy" herbs such as comfrey and rosemary.

Jim Macdonald has recently said that adding lanolin to a salve significantly improves the absorption. I haven't tried this yet but intend to when I can get hold of some pure lanolin (anyone washing a fleece who could let me have some?). You also have to be careful because some people are allergic to lanolin or choose not to use animal products.

Are you making creams with both oils and tinctures or teas? I can never get mine to mix properly so I stick to salves which are much simpler.

Let us know how you get on.

Best wishes

Sarah