One of the things I love about making natural salves is that, when they’re done right, they can stay fresh and effective for years without a single drop of synthetic preservatives. Every jar I make is a little blend of nature’s best, and I take great care to make sure it reaches you at its peak.

A Nod to Tradition

Long before antioxidant charts and shelf life calculators, salve-making was a seasonal rhythm passed down through hands and hearts. Grandmothers and healers would simmer herbs in lard or tallow—fats they rendered themselves—blending plants gathered from the hedgerow or garden. These humble yet potent salves were made not for markets or margins, but for knees and knuckles, for childbirth and bruises, for neighbors and newborns. Each batch was meant to be used, shared, and replenished as needed, not shelved for years.

I think about that often. While I use modern tools and shelf-stable oils like olive oil, the heart of the practice remains the same: make it fresh, make it clean, and make it with care.

Why I Use Olive Oil

I choose high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil as a base in many of my salves because it’s naturally stable. It’s rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that help it last 18–24 months before showing signs of oxidation. When I source my oils, I make sure they’re fresh and of the highest quality—because starting with fresh ingredients makes all the difference.

My Secret Helpers: ROE & Vitamin E

Even though olive oil is naturally stable, I give it extra support with two plant-based allies:

• Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE)** – A powerful natural antioxidant that helps delay rancidity in oils. I only need a tiny amount, but it works wonders for extending the life of a salve.
• Vitamin E (Tocopherol)** – This isn’t a preservative, but it slows oxidation and also happens to be great for your skin. I use mixed tocopherols (the natural kind) so you get both stability and skin benefits.

What Shortens a Salve’s Life

Even the freshest oils can eventually lose their vitality if they’re not cared for. The main culprits are:

• Light – Sunlight speeds up oxidation.
• Oxygen – Exposure to air slowly turns oils rancid.
• Heat – Warmth accelerates chemical changes.
• Contamination – Water, dirty utensils, or even a finger in the jar can invite mold or bacteria.

How I Protect Every Batch

I take several steps to keep your salve as fresh as possible:

• I start with fresh, stable oils.
• I blend in ROE and Vitamin E at just the right levels.
• I package in dark or opaque containers to protect from light.
• I store ingredients and finished products in a cool, dry place.
• I keep my workspace and tools meticulously clean, so nothing unwanted finds its way into your salve.

What You Can Do to Preserve Shelf Life

Once your salve is in your hands, you can help it last even longer by:

• Storing it away from heat and sunlight – A cabinet or drawer is perfect, even in the fridge as suggested below.
• Keeping the lid tightly closed when not in use to limit exposure to air.
• Using clean, dry hands or a cosmetic spatula to scoop out what you need. This avoids water contact – Even a single drop can encourage microbial growth.
• Taking only what you need – Don’t leave the jar open for extended periods while you use it.
• In the event you bought more than you'd use in a year, keeping extra jars in the fridge or freezer can extend the life of the salve as well. I do this with my daily use salves like ABC Balm or Happy Feet. I scoop a smaller amount into a smaller jar and store the rest in the fridge. Even the less often used salves can be kept in the fridge only scooping out what's needed.

With these simple habits, your salve can stay in great condition for a long time—often right up until the very last swipe from the jar.

From My Hands to Yours

Similar to the healers of old, I make my salves in small batches so you always get something freshly made. I know it might be like shooting myself in the foot as a maker, but please only buy what you think you'll use in a year. With the right care, they’ll stay fresh and effective for much longer—but chances are, you’ll enjoy using them up well before then.