NaturalMedications

Small injuries to the skin are often unavoidable, because dangers lurk just about everywhere---at home, at work, at play.

However, once a small mishap occurs, the right wound treatment can promote the healing process and promptly prevent any infections or compli-cations. One proven healing agent for wounds is a salve containing infused comfrey oil. Comfrey, a medicinal plant with a centuries-old history, contains minerals and allantoin, which inhibit inflammation and promote new cell and tissue growth. A salve with comfrey oil helps heal simple injuries, such as cuts, burns and abrasions. It's also useful for treating sores, eczema and bruises.

Infused Comfrey Oil Salve

Infused comfrey oil should be included in a healing salve for wounds. Although not available ready-made, it can easily be prepared at home. In the top of a double boiler, cover 2 oz. Of dried comfrey leaves with 2 cups of extra-virgin olive oil. Cook, covered, over simmering water for 60-90 min. Strain the comfrey oil through a paper towel, pressing down on the leaves.

Application:

Dab the margins of the wound with gauze that has been dipped in an antiseptic such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Then apply the healing salve. Cover large wounds with a gauze bandage, but always leave smaller wounds uncovered.

Comfrey for knitting tissues

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a perennial plant growing in moist meadows and wastelands throughout the United States, reaching a height of 4-3 feet. Its roots and leaves have been used medicinally for hundreds of years to help heal a myriad of conditions, such as cuts, bruises, burns, insect bites and sore throats. A poultice made from the rootstock, when applied externally, can bring relief to inflamed arthritic joints, sprains, and cystic acne. Comfrey encourages tissues, bones and ligaments to re-knit together; the herb has also been called "knit bone."

Comfrey other names and magical uses:

Comfrey's other folk names are Assear, Black Wort, Boneset, Bruisewort, Consohda, Consound, Gum Plant, Healing Herb, Knit Back, Knit Bone (as mentioned above), Miracle Herb, Slippery Root, Wallwort, Yalluc, Gavez, Smeerwartel, Karafaffes and Ztworkost. It is of a feminine energy and a water element. Its magical uses are: worn or carried, comfrey protects and ensures safety during travel. Also, tuck some into your suitcases so that they aren't stolen. (Wonder what the airport folks would think of this!) This root is also used in money spells.

Beeswax as an emulsifier

Pure, unrefined beeswax has a golden color and the sweet smell of honey. It is used to thicken natural lotions, salves, lip balms and creams. It also acts as an emulsifier to help bind oils and water together.

Tea-tree essential oil to fight infection

Essential oil of tea tree, (Melaleuca alternifolia), with its strong, camphor like odor, is derived by distilling the plant's leaves. It is a broad spectrum antiseptic that combats bacterial, viral and fungal infections and can be applied directly to cuts, abrasions, nail fungus, athlete's boot, bleeding gums and acne.

Extra Tip

Make an extra recipe of infused comfrey oil (see above), and store it in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed, labeled jar. With some comfrey oil in reserve, you'll be able to make more healing salve whenever you need it. The oil keeps in the refrigerator for up to 1 year without going rancid..

Healing Salve

Makes 1¼ cups of cream

¼ cup pure beeswax

1 cup infused comfrey oil

20 drops tea-tree essential oil

1. Shave or cut the beeswax into small chunks. In a small saucepan, warm the infused comfrey oil and the beeswax.

2. Heat the ingredients over low heat until the beeswax is just melted. Don't allow the ingredients to boil.

3. Remove from heat, and add the tea-tree essential oil. Then pour the salve into sterilized containers, and store in a cool, dark, dry place for up to 1 year.

Quick and Easy Healing Salve

½ cup all-vegetable shortening (at room temperature)

10 drops tea-tree essential oil

10 drops calendula extract

In a small bowl, whip ingredients together, using a small whisk or spatula, until thoroughly blended. The salve should have the look and feel of fluffy, orange butter cream frosting. Store in a labeled plastic or glass container in a cool place for up to 3 months, or refrigerate for up to 1 year.

Caution:

There are a number of circumstances in which a healing salve should not be used. DO NOT use a salve under these conditions:

When a cut is deeper than ¼ inch. Instead, see a physician immediately for stitches.

When the injury is bleeding profusely.

When a splinter or any other foreign object that cannot be removed with tweezers caused the wound.

When the wound is the result of an animal bite, whether the animal is known or unknown.

When there is any chance that the wound has become infected or that, there may be blood poisoning.

When the skin still feels warm from a burn.

This salve makes a great gift for your extended family members

or friends; such as Christmas or any other event that you give a gift basket of healing.