NaturalMedications

Herbs: Calendula (Calendula officinalis) and Plantain (Plantago major)

This sweet-smelling balm soothes and protects cuts and scrapes. And it's

so gentle you can even use it on diaper rash. Calendula and plantain are

known for their ability to speed skin healing. Both soften skin, relieve

pain, and are antibacterial.

How to make it: This is a two-step process.

First, you'll make an herb-infused oil:

In a large glass jar, combine 2 tablespoon each of crushed Calendula

flowers and dried plantain leaves with 1/3 c of extra-virgin olive oil.

Leave uncovered, and place in a pan filled with enough water to cover

the lower half of the jar. Set the burner on very low heat and simmer

gently for about 4 hours. Check the oil periodically to be sure it's not

scorching; don't let it boil. (You can also make the infused oil in a

Crock-Pot set on very low without a lid.)

After the allotted time, remove the oil from the heat and allow it to

cool completely. Strain away the herbs through several layers of

cheesecloth and discard.

To make the balm, combine the infused oil with 1 or 2 tablespoon of

grated beeswax and put it into a small stainless steel bowl; set the

bowl into a pot of water and heat just until the beeswax melts, stirring

gently to help the melting.

To test the consistency, insert a cool metal spoon into the balm and

check the balm that sticks to the spoon; it should be spreadable but

firm. If it's too oily, add another few shavings of beeswax.

At this point, you can add a natural preservative to your balm to

prevent spoilage. Vitamin E, squeezed from capsules, works very well.

Rosemary extracts or oil might improve the aroma and antiseptic

properties as well. You'll need about 1/4 tsp. (two capsules) to

preserve this much balm.

After you've blended in the vitamin E, transfer your final product to a

sterile glass jar. Use a clean spoon or small spatula to transfer the

balm to avoid introducing bacteria to the jar.

How to use it: Apply the balm to rashes, scrapes, and other small or

superficial abrasions (don't use it on deep cuts). You can also apply it

regularly to help heal chronically chapped skin.

Stored in a cool, dark place, the balm should keep for up to a year.

Discard if it smells rancid.