1. Gently heat the oil and wax together in a water bath until all wax is dissolved
2. Remove from heat and pout into mixing bowl
3. Warm the water to body temperature
4. Dissolve the stearic acid in the water

With all ingredients at body temperature slowly dribble the water into the mixing bowl with the oil, blending with a mixer or whisk until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. The less water you add, the thicker the cream, so if you get your desired result before adding all the water, that is perfectly ok. Note that the cream will continue to thicken as it cools.

Divvy up the cream into clean and dry jars, then stir in 5 to 10 drops of essential oils as desired. The antibacterial properties of real essential oils will help extend the shelf life of your cream in a way the fragrance oils cannot. Store away from heat and light in a cool, dry location.

**Stearic acid is an all natural emulsifier for creams. Its use is optional but I find creams come out lighter and fluffier and allows you to use less wax.

• Salve :Home recipes for healing balms and salves for your home herbalist first aid kit. Blister balms, cold sores, cuts, scrapes, rashes, sunburn, good for almost any skin irritations.