Friday, November 30, 2012

Make Black Walnut Salve

Black walnut salve is a multi-purpose treatment for numerous skin conditions, including ringworm, eczema, boil, blisters and athlete's foot. It will also relieve itching from insect bites and rashes and soothe dry, irritated skin.


Instructions


1. Clean the herbs thoroughly if you're using fresh herbs. Shake any loose dirt out of the leaves and lay them in the sun to dry. Any moisture remaining in the leaves can cause the salve to mold quickly.


2. Measure the herbs into a slow cooker or a stainless steel pot and cover the herbs with olive oil, plus an extra inch.


3. Heat the oil and herbs over low heat for at least three hours. If the herbs include roots, add an extra 2 hours to the heating time. Allow the mixture to cool.








4. Line a colander with a layer of folded muslin or cheesecloth and pour the mixture through it to strain. Once most of the oil has strained through, squeeze the cloth to extract as much salve as possible.


5. Add the beeswax and heat the mixture until the beeswax melts. Add the Vitamin E and any essential oils.


6. Test the salve by putting a small amount on a spoon and letting it cool. If the salve is too thin, add morebeeswax.


7. Pour the black walnut salve into small, labeled containers. Store the salve in a cool, dark place.

Tags: walnut salve