This basic healing salve uses plantain, the “band-aid plant” that grows everywhere, combined with calendula for a simple but effective first aid preparation.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh plantain leaves (or 1/2 cup dried)
- 1/2 cup fresh calendula flowers (or 1/4 cup dried)
- 1 cup olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons beeswax pellets
- Optional: 10 drops lavender essential oil
Making the Oil:
Clean fresh plantain and calendula (plantain is the common “weed” with ribbed leaves found in most lawns and paths). Place herbs in a slow cooker with olive oil on the lowest setting for 4-6 hours, or place jar of herbs and oil in a sunny windowsill for 2-3 weeks.
Straining:
Strain the oil through muslin, squeezing the herbs to get all the goodness out. You should have about 3/4 cup of green-tinged herbal oil.
Making the Salve:
Gently warm the herbal oil and slowly add beeswax, stirring until melted. Test consistency by putting a spoonful on a cold plate – it should set within a minute. Add more beeswax for firmer salve, more oil for softer.
Remove from heat, add lavender oil if using, and pour into small jars while still liquid.
Uses:
Apply to minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, dry skin, or any area needing gentle healing support. Plantain helps draw out splinters and soothes inflammation, while calendula promotes healthy skin repair.
Why It Works:
Plantain has been used for centuries for wound healing and is safe for all ages. Calendula is one of the best herbs for skin health and healing.