Can you explain the use of water/emulsifier wax. What is the purpose of emulsifying and adding water?
The emulsifier needs dispersed throughout the oil to make the water incorporate. Otherwise it just separates.
Is this so that your final mix is not too "oily"?
Lotion has water in it to make it more creamy and soak in faster. I don't use the body butter because just oil is too much for my skin. The lotion works good for me. It's opposite for my Mom.
I was under the impression that borax can be toxic (a tiny little bit goes a very long way in gardening, and is not even approved for organic gardening unless soil tests show a boron deficiency. I use it in my laundry detergent, but would be hesitant to use it in a lotion.
Borax is pretty safe for mammals as long as you don't eat it, and even then it would take a decent amount to upset your stomach. You can buy premade emulsifier waxes but the ingredients all have cancer concerns.
Are your percentages for the emulsifier wax by weight?
The recipe I found didn't actually say. I use measuring spoons for it since the Vit E and rosemary oil are calculated by volume of ingredients.
How long does this lotion keep?
6 weeks on the counter depending on how liquid. It freezes well. I usually pull out a new jar once a month. I only make it twice a year.
Is my fear of borax irrational?
Don't breathe in a lot of borax dust, actually eat it, or apply a paste of it to your skin and there should be zero issues. It's a tiny amount used. Unless you're actually super sensitive to it, it won't do anything. Even then it would just irritate the skin.
Do you freeze your lotions, salves and ointments to give them a longer shelf life?
This freezes well. Does not separate on thawing.
For Calendula, do you just use petals, and what would be your ratio?
I use whole dried flower heads.
Comfrey... how do you use that? Dry, fresh? Ratio?
Also dried leaves. If I need 2 cups of liquid, I'd use a cup of each plant then pour 3 cups of hot water over to steep. Strain and measure.
I assume I can make an oil infusion with these 2 plants for a general healing salve.
Yes. I generally take a jar and fill it with whatever dried herb and pour almond or olive oil over and let it sit a week. Then I strain and measure out what I need. The Balm of Gilliad takes at least 6 weeks and is best with fresh buds. Make sure there is an air permeable top if using fresh so moisture can escape. I use coffee filters.
