Why Start a Small Home Apothecary?

When I started my Slowsteading journey, a home apothecary was not one of the first things I did. My interest in herbs' medicinal and healing properties began when I had an abundant oregano harvest and researched other applications for the herb. I came across an article called Oregano, Nature’s Antibiotic. I made a simple tincture after air drying a big bunch of oregano leaves, and 6 weeks later, I had my own amber bottle of organic homegrown natural antibiotic.

Starting a small home apothecary is one of the most empowering and rewarding ways to reconnect with nature, care for yourself and your family, and slow down in a fast-paced world. Whether living in an urban apartment or on a rural homestead, you can craft a meaningful apothecary space tailored to your needs—one cup of tea, soothing salve, or tincture at a time.

Growing and Drying Herbs

Even a few pots on a windowsill can yield an abundance of valuable herbs. Start with versatile, low-maintenance plants such as chamomile, lavender, peppermint, lemon balm, and calendula. These herbs are medicinal but also beautiful and fragrant—bringing a sense of calm and connection to your space.

Drying Basics:

  • Air Drying: Bundle small bunches of herbs with string and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated, and shaded place.
  • Dehydrator Method: To preserve essential oils and active compounds, use a dehydrator on a low setting (95–115°F / 35–46°C).

Once dried, store herbs in glass jars away from heat and light. Label each with the name and date. Properly stored, most herbs remain potent for 6–12 months.

Making Herbal Oil Infusions

Infused oils are the foundation of many topical remedies, such as salves, balms, and massage oils.

How to Make:

  1. Fill a clean jar halfway with dried herbs (calendula, chamomile, or lavender are great starters).
  2. Cover completely with a carrier oil like olive, almond, or coconut oil.
  3. Seal and place in a warm, sunny spot for 2–4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
  4. Strain through cheesecloth into a clean bottle. Store in a cool, dark place.

These oils are excellent for skincare, wound healing, and as bases for other preparations.

Creating Alcohol Tinctures

Tinctures are potent liquid extracts preserved in alcohol or glycerin. They are highly concentrated and last for several years.

How to Make:

  1. Fill a jar ½ to ¾ full with dried herbs (like lemon balm or elderberries).
  2. Cover with vodka, brandy, or food-grade glycerin.
  3. Cap and store in a dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking regularly.
  4. Strain and bottle in amber dropper bottles.

Tinctures can be taken in small doses (usually 15–30 drops) in water or tea to support various body systems.

Infused Honey and Oxymels

Infused Honey:

  • Combine dried herbs like chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm with raw honey.
  • Let it sit for 1–2 weeks, turning the jar occasionally.
  • Strain or leave herbs in if using quickly.

Oxymel (Honey + Vinegar):

  • Mix apple cider vinegar with honey (typically 1:2 ratio).
  • Add herbs like thyme, elderberry, or ginger.
  • Steep for 2–4 weeks, strain, and bottle.

Use by the spoonful or diluted in warm water during colds or digestive upset.

The Role of Essential Oils

Essential oils offer concentrated herbal benefits in small, aromatic doses. While they should be used sparingly and carefully, they’re potent additions to your apothecary.

Best Starter Oils:

  • Lavender – calming, skin-healing, sleep support
  • Tea Tree – antimicrobial, great in salves and cleaning sprays
  • Peppermint – digestive support, energizing, headache relief
  • Eucalyptus – respiratory aid, great in steam or balm
  • Lemon – mood-lifting, antibacterial, cleansing

Store oils in a cool, dark place and always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

Crafting Your First Herbal Salve

Salves are solidified herbal oils that can be used for dry skin, minor cuts, burns, and chest rubs.

How to Make:

  1. Melt 1 part beeswax with 3–4 parts infused oil (e.g., calendula oil).
  2. Once fully melted, add a few drops of essential oil, if desired.
  3. Pour into clean tins or jars.
  4. Let cool and label.

Simple Apothecary Remedies for Flu Relief

Ginger, Lemon, and Honey Tea

Ingredients & Benefits:

  • Fresh Ginger: Anti-inflammatory, helps soothe a sore throat and clear congestion.
  • Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, supports the immune system.
  • Honey: Natural cough suppressant and antimicrobial agent.
  • Optional Add-In – Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory, with a pinch of black pepper for absorption.

Preparation:

  1. Slice a few thin pieces of ginger and add them to boiling water.
  2. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, then strain.
  3. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and stir in a teaspoon of honey.
  4. For an extra boost, mix in a pinch of turmeric and black pepper.
  5. Enjoy warm.

Elderberry Tincture

Ingredients & Benefits:

  • Elderberries: Antioxidant-rich, immune-boosting.
  • Vodka or Glycerin: Preservative, extracts active compounds.
  • Optional Spices: Cinnamon or cloves for flavor and additional benefits.

Preparation:

  1. Crush fresh or dried elderberries in a clean jar.
  2. Pour in enough high-proof alcohol (like vodka) or glycerin to cover the berries completely.
  3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
  4. Strain and bottle.

Eucalyptus and Tea Tree Steam Inhalation

Ingredients & Benefits:

  • Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Decongestant, anti-inflammatory.
  • Tea Tree Essential Oil: Antiseptic, helps fight pathogens.

Preparation:

  1. Fill a large bowl with hot (but not boiling) water.
  2. Add 2-3 drops each of eucalyptus and tea tree essential oils.
  3. Lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam.
  4. Breathe deeply for 5-10 minutes.

A Lifestyle of Care

Starting your apothecary is about more than learning herbal recipes—it’s about slowing down, learning the rhythms of nature, and nurturing your family with intention. Even with just a few herbs and jars, you’re beginning a journey that connects you to centuries of traditional knowledge and everyday resilience.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided on this apothecary blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any herbal treatments.