Here are some traditional herbal healing salves, liniments, and
ointments. They are for external use only, should not be used by
those allergic to an ingredient, nor should they be considered a
replacement for modern medicine. In other words, all the standard disclaimers to keep the medical and legal professions happy apply.
Pain Reliever:
Mix together 1 ounce of chickweed (reduces inflammation and aids in healing), 1 ounce of wormwood (a great pain reliever), and 1 ounce of yarrow (an anti-bacterial agent that also helps to
relieve pain). Add the mixed herbs to 2 pints of olive oil and
simmer 3 hours. Strain and add 3 ounces of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of tincture of benzene. Test for consistency before pouring into wide mouth containers.
Aloe Vera Salve:
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of pekoe tea and 1
tablespoon of Irish moss. Allow to sit until cool. Add 3
tablespoons of aloe gel. Mix well and store in labeled jar. This
salve can be used to heal minor burns, including sunburns.
Chickweed Salve:
Add about 1 pound of chickweed to 1 pint of olive oil. Heat for 3
hours in an oven set at 150 degrees. Strain and add 1 and a half
ounces of melted beeswax to the mixture. Stir mixture while it is
cooling, as it will thicken. Place in a wide mouth jar and label.
Great for healing minor cuts, burns, and abrasions.
Liniment for Colds and Chest Tightness:
Add 1 cup of finely chopped garlic to 1 cup of boiling lard.
Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 2 hours. Remove from heat and strain the garlic from the oil. Place in a container with a
tight-fitting lid.
Rheumatic Pain Ointment:
Place a half cup of rosemary leaves and 1/2 teaspoon oil of
cloves in 1 cup of vegetable oil. Simmer gently for 20 minutes.
Strain well and bottle. Make a poultice and use as often as
necessary for rheumatic pain.
Liniment for Aching Body:
Add 2 ounces of powdered golden seal to 1 quart of rubbing
alcohol. Let set for 2 weeks, shaking daily. Use as a massage for
aching muscles.