Learn how to make a slow infused herb tallow balm using chickweed, calendula, comfrey, plantain, and lavender.
How to make herb infused tallow balm
If you are looking for a nourishing skin remedy, this herb infused tallow balm is one of the best places to start. It is slow-infused, moisturizing, and gentle enough for everyday use. We use it as our go-to solution for dry skin, irritated patches, and just about anything skin-related.
This tallow balm recipe uses dried herbs, grass-fed tallow, and a low, steady crockpot infusion method that pulls the beneficial plant compounds into the fats. The result is a rich, green herbal balm packed with all those great herb properties and beef tallow benefits.
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What is herb infused tallow balm?
Herb infused tallow balm is a natural skin moisturizer made by slowly heating dried medicinal herbs in rendered beef tallow. Low heat extracts beneficial plant compounds into the fat, creating a rich balm for dry skin, irritation, and everyday skin care.
Quick overview
- Made with dried herbs and grass-fed tallow
- Slow infused in a crockpot for 4–12 hours
- Can be whipped or used as a solid balm
- Tallow is noncomedogenic (source)
- Shelf life: 6–12 months
- Common uses: dry skin, sensitive skin, baby care
Why tallow works so well for skin
Did you know tallow skin care is centuries old? When you render beef tallow properly, it becomes a clean, shelf-stable fat that closely resembles the natural oils found in healthy human skin.
Tallow absorbs easily and helps support the skin barrier without leaving a greasy residue. It is rich in fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, and helpful for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin (source). When you combine tallow with medicinal herbs through slow infusion, you get a balm that nourishes and comforts. I also have an easy recipe for DIY natural deodorant with tallow and lots of other tallow skincare recipes if you’re looking for more homemade natural skincare.
Tip: Rendering beef tallow isn’t as hard as you might think. Learn how to render your own odorless tallow at home here.
Herbs you’ll need for this herb infused tallow balm
I have a blend of five dried herbs that I love using in this recipe.
- Chickweed is great for any kind of itchy skin situation.
- Calendula flowers are super soothing and calming.
- Comfrey is really great for the skin because it has wonderful restorative properties.
- Plantain is extremely soothing when the skin feels reactive or inflamed. It also supports the skin’s natural healing process.
- Lavender adds a wonderful scent and amazing skin-calming properties.
How to make herb infused tallow balm
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grass-fed tallow
- 1/4 cup organic extra virgin olive oil (optional, for softer texture if the tallow you’re using is hard)
- ¼ cup dried chickweed
- ¼ cup dried calendula flowers
- ¼ cup dried comfrey
- ¼ cup dried plantain
- ¼ cup dried lavender flowers
Instructions:
- Add all dried herbs to a clean quart-size mason jar. Pour the olive oil over the herbs (if using). Add the tallow to the jar.
- Fold a small towel and place it in the bottom of the crockpot. Set the mason jar on top of the towel. This helps protect the glass.
- Pour water into the crockpot until it comes partway up the side of the jar. You want the water high enough to warm the mixture evenly.
- Turn the crockpot to a setting that keeps the water at a gentle simmer. For most crockpots, low works well. You do not need to put a lid on the jar or the crockpot.
- Infuse for at least 4 hours, ideally 8–12 hours, adding more water as needed if it evaporates.
- Once infused, line a strainer with cheesecloth and carefully strain the herbs out into a clean container. Allow the infused tallow to cool and fully solidify at room temperature
- Whip with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Spoon into clean glass jars and store.
Storage, shelf life, and more tips
How should I store this tallow balm?
You want to keep your balm in a clean glass jar in a cool, dark place away from direct heat or sunlight.
How do I whip tallow balm?
Whipping is optional, but I love the light, fluffy texture it creates. Once the infused tallow has solidified, place it in a mixing bowl and use a hand mixer to whip for several minutes.
Continue until the balm becomes pale and airy.
How long does homemade tallow balm last?
This recipe doesn’t include water, so it has a naturally long shelf life. You can keep it out at room temperature for 3–6 months, in the refrigerator up to 12 months, and even longer in your freezer.
Can I customize this herb tallow balm recipe?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to adapt. You can add beeswax for a firmer salve texture, change the herbs based on what you have available, skip whipping, and keep it as a solid balm, or add essential oils after infusion.
Tips for making herb infused tallow balm
- Use dried herbs only to prevent spoilage.
- Keep the heat low and gentle, never boiling.
- Infuse longer (8–12 hours) for stronger results.
- Strain while warm for easier filtering.
- Let the balm cool fully before whipping.
- Whip well for a light, smooth texture.
More helpful posts
How to Make DIY Natural Deodorant with Tallow
Have you ever tried homemade tallow balm?
Do you have a favorite tallow balm recipe? Let me know how you like to make yours in the comments. I love hearing about your favorite DIY skincare recipes. I’m always looking for new ones to try.
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How to Make Herb Infused Tallow Balm
A slow-infused herb infused tallow balm made with chickweed, calendula, comfrey, plantain, and lavender. This nourishing balm is simmered to draw out the herbs’ natural properties, then whipped into a soft, fluffy texture.
Materials
- 1 cup grass-fed tallow
- 1/4 cup organic extra virgin olive oil (optional, for softer texture if the tallow you're using is hard)
- ¼ cup dried chickweed
- ¼ cup dried calendula flowers
- ¼ cup dried comfrey
- ¼ cup dried plantain
- ¼ cup dried lavender flowers
Tools
- Crock pot
- Glass jars
- Small towel or cloth
- Mesh strainer
- Hand mixer
Instructions
- Add all dried herbs to a clean quart-size mason jar. Pour the olive oil over the herbs (if using). Add the tallow to the jar.
- Fold a small towel and place it in the bottom of the crockpot. Set the mason jar on top of the towel. This helps protect the glass.
- Pour water into the crockpot until it comes partway up the side of the jar. You want the water high enough to warm the mixture evenly.
- Turn the crockpot to a setting that keeps the water at a gentle simmer. For most crockpots, low works well. You do not need to put a lid on the jar or the crockpot.
- Infuse for at least 4 hours, ideally 8–12 hours, adding more water as needed if it evaporates.
- Once infused, line a strainer with cheesecloth and carefully strain the herbs out into a clean container. Allow the infused tallow to cool and fully solidify at room temperature.
- Whip with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, if desired. Spoon into clean glass jars and store.
Notes
Use dried herbs only
Recommended Products
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Fatworks Organic Grass-Fed Beef Tallow, Certified Organic Non-Gmo Pasture-Raised Beef Tallow, sourced from several small family ranchers, KETO friendly, exclusive to Fatworks, 14 oz.
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Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
The information in this blog post is my personal experience and opinion. It is for general information purposes only, that may not apply to you as an individual, and is not a substitute for your own physician’s medical care or advice. Always seek advice from your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding nutrition, medical conditions, and advice. Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical care because of something you have read on this blog.