The holiday season is the perfect time to explore the art of giving thoughtful, handcrafted gifts. At the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism (MWIH), we believe in the power of nature’s remedies to nourish both body and soul. Here, we share a collection of simple yet effective DIY herbal recipes that make wonderful gifts for loved ones, or a treat for yourself!
A soothing bath formula can provide relief from diaper rash, eczema, and dry skin. This versatile Skin Relief Bath Formula is gentle enough for babies and effective for adults. A combination of calendula, marshmallow root, oak bark, and other soothing herbs creates a calming bath for irritated skin.
* You can use the Bath formula below as soon as you see the first signs of diaper rash. If the diaper rash is particularly bad, you can use this formula 1 X per day, up to 3 days in a row, take a 2 day break and repeat. This formula can also be used for infants/kids with eczema or dry skin. It can also be used for adults as a bath, sitz bath, hand or foot soak.
For the men in your life who take pride in their grooming, why not gift them a homemade beard oil? Beard oils can soften facial hair, prevent itching, and keep beards looking healthy. Customize the scent by choosing essential oils like cedarwood, sandalwood, or lavender.
Instructions: Mix a blend of carrier oils (many mixes use ⅓ oz each of jojoba oil, argan oil, and grape seed oil) with a few drops of essential oils. It’s a quick and thoughtful gift that adds a touch of luxury to everyday grooming.
A homemade lavender heating pad is another wonderful gift to provide comfort and relaxation. Lavender is known for its calming effects, making this a great stress reliever for anyone on your list.
Simply fill a cloth bag with rice and dried lavender flowers, sew it shut, and you have a reusable, microwavable heating pad. Perfect for cozy winter nights or easing muscle tension after a long day.
For more detailed instructions, check out
this blog.
Give the gift of calm this season with a homemade herbal tea blend. Perfect for friends, family, or even as a self-care treat, these relaxing teas combine marshmallow root, rose petals, and other calming herbs for a delightful, stress-relieving experience. Package the blend in a decorative jar or bag with a handwritten label and instructions, making it an easy and thoughtful gift for anyone in need of a cozy moment. Explore some recipe ideas from our favorite herbal experts at
Mountain Rose Herbs’ Marshmallow & Rose Tea or
Mountain Rose Herbs’ Merry and Bright Herbal Tea Blend.
FYI: Did you know that with any subscription on MWIH you get a special coupon code for 10% off on all online orders with Mountain Rose Herbs?
A simmer pot is a simple way to fill your home with a comforting, natural fragrance. Combine herbs like cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried oranges, and rosemary, and simmer them in water on the stove. Package these ingredients in a decorative jar, a pastry bag, or even a
glass pot with a tag explaining how to use them for a cozy, aromatic gift.
Treat loved ones to the rejuvenating experience of an herbal foot bath with a handcrafted blend that brings relaxation and relief to tired feet. These foot baths make a thoughtful, unique gift, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet or simply deserve some extra pampering. Package a blend of dried herbs, such as lavender, rosemary, and chamomile, in a decorative bag or jar, and add a note with instructions for use.
For more inspiring blend ideas, check out our guide on creating custom
herbal foot baths.
Indulge loved ones with a gift of handcrafted
herbal chocolate truffles, a decadent treat infused with unique flavors from the world of herbs. These truffles are a fun and thoughtful way to introduce friends and family to herbal ingredients in a deliciously familiar form. To make this gift even more special, visit our herbal truffle recipe guide for five unique flavor combinations, including options like rose and damiana for a floral twist, or cayenne and cinnamon for those who love a bit of spice. Package your truffles in a beautiful box with a note directing recipients to the blog post for more flavor inspirations they can try at home. This gift offers a memorable experience of flavor and herbal wellness combined.
Give the gift of relaxation with a Matthew Wood created Ashwagandha and Magnesium Lotion blend, specially crafted to relieve tension and spasms in the feet and body. Create a calming kit by packaging a small jar of ashwagandha powder alongside a bottle of Life-flo Magnesium Lotion—both known for their natural muscle-relaxing properties. Include a note with instructions for use: "Sprinkle a pinch of ashwagandha powder into a small dish and mix with a dollop of magnesium lotion. Massage into tense areas to soothe muscles and support relaxation. Especially good on feet for whole body relief." This thoughtful, handmade gift brings comfort and care, ideal for friends and family who need a little extra stress relief.
As cold and flu season approaches, elderberry syrup is a must-have to support immune health. This antiviral powerhouse is easy to make and can be stored for months. Package it in a beautiful jar with a handmade label to create a thoughtful gift.
A homemade plantain salve makes a wonderful gift for anyone seeking natural relief from minor skin irritations, and bites. Plantain, known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, is excellent for calming irritated skin and drawing properties. This simple, natural salve is a gift of comfort and care, perfect for those who love herbal remedies.
Delight friends and family with the gift of homemade Scottish shortbread—a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Made with simple ingredients, this buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread is a perfect pairing with a cozy cup of tea. Wrap a batch in festive paper or a decorative tin, and include a note with the recipe to share the love of baking.
Get inspired by our
traditional Scottish shortbread recipe for a holiday gift that’s both thoughtful and delicious.
Digestive bitters can support healthy digestion and make a unique, practical gift. Bitters are traditionally taken before or after meals to aid in digestion and stimulate appetite.
Mix the tinctures, store them in a small glass bottle, and include instructions to take a few drops before meals.
Each of these DIY herbal remedies brings the healing power of nature into your home. Not only do they make wonderful gifts, but they also reflect the wisdom and knowledge shared at the Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism. Whether you are crafting these for friends, family, or yourself, they are sure to bring comfort and care this holiday season.
Stay tuned for more recipes and inspiration from MWIH, and happy crafting!
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