Basic Body Balm
4 tablespoons cocoa or shea butter
2 tablespoons carrier oil (recommendation: calendula oil)
2 teaspoons vit E oil
1/2 – 1 tablespoon cornstarch
15 drops EO blend (5 drops patchouli, 10 drops sandalwood)
Heat butter in double boiler until melted (do not boil.) Remove from heat and add carrier oil. Beat with hand mixer until balm starts to cool. Add vit e oil. Continue beating until balm becomes light and fluffy. Slowly add cornstarch, beating thoroughly after each addition. Over time you will learn when the balm has reached the proper consistency and you can stop adding cornstarch. Try to err on the side of adding too little cornstarch as opposed to too much.
Too much cornstarch will cause the balm to be gritty and hard to apply. Too little and the balm may be slightly greasy. Adding the right amount gives the balm a smooth, velvety texture and allows it to melt into the skin.
Add EO blend and beat about 30 seconds more. Transfer balm to sterile air tight container and allow it to cool completely before adding the lid.
