Made on the Homestead

The possibilities are endless for how self-sufficient we can become on our 4 acre homestead. As we make more improvements and take on more tasks our self-sufficiency will increase, but for now there are a few things we reliably make on our own.

Hand Cream 

Instead of purchasing hand cream or lotion we make it ourselves. The ingredients are obtained off the homestead, but the ingredient list is short, the cost is minimal, and we tailor it to our own preferences. Our typical recipe:

• 1/4 cup beeswax 
• 1/4 cup of almond oil
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup Shea butter 
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 8-10 drops of essential oil (patchouli and a citrus is a favorite as is patchouli and lavender, but the possibilities are endless!) 

Using the lowest setting on your burner, first melt the beeswax. Sometimes I use a double boiler, sometimes I'm lazy and just use a small sauce pan. Once the beeswax has melted, add the Shea butter and coconut oil. Once they are melted, add the almond oil and olive oil. Let all of these melt and blend together. Give it a few last stirs, add the essential oil and portion out into your containers.

I have learned that rapid cooling of the shea butter is important to avoid the grainy texture that can develop over time. After portioning, I immediately put it in the fridge, without lids, to cool.

Typically, I use the smallest mason jars, but I so enjoy collecting glass bottles and glass jars that I also use old candle holders, empty sauce jars  - really anything! 

We find this quantity lasts us a few months, but my husband has exceptionally dry hands and uses a lot. He also uses it on his head and face. I use jojoba oil for my face.

*If you want something that absorbs more rapidly decrease your beeswax. I would also play with decreasing the olive oil until you find your preferred consistency.

*If you want something heavier, add 1/8 - 1/4 cup of lanolin just before adding the Shea butter and coconut oil.