Natural Remedies for Soothing Skin and Aches
Poultices and salves are simple, time-tested ways to use plants for soothing skin irritations, bruises, swollen areas, and minor aches. Whether it’s mullein, plantain, comfrey, or calendula, many herbs have gentle healing powers that you can bring home with just a little preparation.
Poultices
A poultice is a soft, warm pack you place on the skin. To make one, crush fresh or dried leaves – like mullein or plantain – to release their natural juices. Warm the crushed leaves slightly and place them directly on the sore or swollen spot. Cover with a clean cloth and leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes. The warmth and moisture help the plant’s healing properties soak into your skin.
Salves
Salves are thicker balms made by infusing herbs into oil and mixing it with beeswax. You can use herbs like comfrey or calendula, which are known for their skin-soothing qualities, or mullein for its calming effects. To make a salve, gently heat the dried herbs in a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil) for a few hours to extract their benefits. Strain the herbs out, then warm the infused oil with beeswax until melted. Pour it into a small container and let it cool to form a smooth, easy-to-apply balm.
Things to have on hand when making salves:
- Fresh or dried herbs: Mullein, plantain, comfrey, calendula, and others you like
- Carrier oils: Olive oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil work well
- Beeswax: For thickening salves
- A double boiler or a heat-safe bowl and pot: For gently warming oils and beeswax
- Clean cloths or muslin: For applying poultices and straining oils
- Glass jars or containers: To store your salves and infused oils
- A mortar and pestle or something to crush herbs: For preparing poultices
Storage Tips
Poultices are best made fresh and used right away since they’re moist and won’t keep long. Salves, on the other hand, can be stored for several months.
Keep your salve in a cool, dark place – like a cupboard or drawer – and make sure the lid is tight to prevent it from drying out. If it starts to smell off or changes colour, it’s time to make a new batch.
Poultices and salves are simple to make and great additions to any natural first aid kit. They offer a hands-on way to connect with the healing power of plants around us.