How to Make a Natural Diaper Rash Ointment

Even in natural product stores, the balms and lotions you buy will contain preservatives. This is necessary to prevent the growth of molds and bacteria, but these preservatives are also irritating to the skin themselves. Creating small batches of natural balm at home makes preservatives unnecessary - you will use the product up long before there is a chance for bacteria and molds to flourish. The fact that these balms contain no water also helps to prevent the spread of bacteria and mold. Keep a little batch of this in the diaper bag and on the changing table and take care of any problems before they get worse.

Even for those without children, these balms are wonderful for protecting and healing irritated, chafed skin. Use them to calm heat rash, friction irritation, or for a scraped elbow. The rash balm is great for soothing hemorrhoids, especially if the olive oil is first infused with a bit of dried witch hazel herb. These are good all-purpose creams for keeping anyone's skin in calm, happy condition.

Rash Balm
Use this on skin that is already irritated and/or chafed. This makes 5 ounces of finished balm, a small enough batch to be used while fresh and replaced often.

2.5 ounce of olive oil
1 ounce of castor oil
1 ounce of beeswax or carnauba wax
.5 ounce zinc oxide (powder, get the oil soluble form)
.01 ounce lavender, chamomile,tea tree or geranium EO, OPTIONAL
1 teaspoon vitamin E oil or grapefruit seed extract (acts as an antioxidant to keep oils fresh)

Measure the wax, olive and castor oils into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH in 30 second increments until just melted. Stir well. Measure Vitamin E oil or grapefruit seed extract and stir zinc oxide into it to dissolve. Add to oils mixture. Stir in essential oils, if using.