Herbal Salves and Ointments

When the majority of people consider taking herbal remedies, they think of the supplement form of these remedies. Although herbal supplements are the most popular type of remedy for a variety of problems, there is another use for herbs that is unfamiliar to many.

Topical salves, ointments and poultices can also be made using herbs, for external applications that can help to provide pain relief, speed up the healing process, and reduce swelling.

If you decide to make your own herbal salves, you should use only the the highest quality herbs available. The best type of herbs to use are ground flakes or powder inside gel caps.

Pull the capsules apart and shake the herb into a container, or on a plate for mixing. Just add some type of liquid substance to the the powdered herb, stir them together, and you have a herbal salve or ointment that is ready to use.

The liquid you use can vary, depending on what you have available. A good quality petroleum jelly will work fine, as long as it doesn't contain additives that you wouldn't want to be absorbed into your skin. Pure aloe vera gel, if you have it, should be the first choice. Vinegar or mineral oil can can also be used.

One of the most effective herbal salves you can use is a Golden Seal salve. Open up a capsule of Golden Seal root, shake it into a small dish, and mix it with a small amount of petroleum jelly to make a salve you can apply as needed to affected areas.

If you mix Golden Seal with Aloe Vera gel, it well help to stimulate healing even faster. Aloe Vera has the ability to penetrate all of the skins layers, which will carry the healing capability of the golden seal, as well as its own healing power under the skin, to begin healing faster.

You can use this salve as an extremely effective treatment for healing abrasions and cuts rapidly, and usually without leaving scars. It will make your skin turn a greenish yellow color, but it will wash off with soap and water.

Herbal Salves and Ointments: Part 2