Extra virgin olive oil 

We use extra virgin olive oil as the base oil for this balm as it is moisturising, hypoallergenic, antiinfective and anti-inflammatory. It is a very stable oil that maintains its healing properties when gently infused like in this recipe. It is also rich in a host of potent natural antioxidants – which not only protect the skin from the effects of sun radiation, pollution and other stressors, but also help preserve the balm for longer. Containing plenty of vitamin A, D, E and K, it is nourishing, soothing and protective to the skin. 

Comfrey root

Comfrey root is deeply healing — another one of its traditional common names is ‘knitbone’, as it facilitates and activates tissue healing, having even been used to support the body to heal broken bones for many centuries. It is a brilliant herb to assist recovery from  torn ligaments, strains, bruises, arthritis, tendonitis and any injury or inflammation in muscles, joints or bones. 

Marshmallow root 

Marshmallow root is a soothing, anti-inflammatory herb which gives a pleasant, soft texture to the balm. It is very gentle and softening on the skin, helping to alleviate any irritation and inflammation.

St John’s wort herb 

St John’s wort is often prescribed internally for its mood-enhancing qualities, but it also has a wealth of external uses. St John’s wort infused oil eases pain and speeds healing, particularly where there is nerve injury and/or pain involved, such as in sciatica and shingles. It is also helpful for any sprains, bruises, wounds or sores. 

Candelilla wax

We use candelilla wax to thicken the balm into just the right consistency for rubbing on muscles and joints. Candellila wax is very similar to beeswax. We avoid using beeswax in order to offer fully plant-based balms. It is derived from the candelilla plant, which grows in the Chihuahuan desert in Mexico, providing livelihoods to local smallholder producers (“candelilleros”) who sustainably harvest the plant. Candelilla wax is soothing to the skin, does not block pores (making it safe for oily skin) and is naturally rich in beneficial vitamin A. The plant leaf is so full of wax that you can light it like a candle!

Pine essential oil

Made from aromatic pine tree needles (commonly recognised as the traditional Christmas tree!), pine essential oil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. With an invigorating, fresh and cleansing fragrance, this essential oil is known to soothe inflammation, soreness, aches and pains. It also improves circulation, supports immune function and supports the body’s natural detoxification process. It is also refreshing and uplifting, which makes it helpful to reduce tension and fatigue. 

Cajeput essential oil 

Cajeput essential oil has a refreshing, fruity, camphor-like aroma. It is very effective in easing joint and nerve pain in arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia or sciatica. It also reduces muscle spasms, contractions and tension, and more generally eases any inflammation in joints and muscles when applied locally.