Healing salve ...

This beautiful salve, inspired by the LaerningHerbs Medicine Kit purchased many years ago, is a staple in the first aid kit. When my grandchildren were young they called it boo-boo cream. It is a simple recipe of olive oil, beeswax and lavender essential oil.

Recently a dear friend skinned both shins severely. Her doctor suggested cocoa butter once the open wounds had closed to help with the scabs. She had bought a jar labeled cocoa butter at the drug store. The ingredients listed mineral oil and fragrance among other items. Not what I would have chosen! As soon as I returned home I went to work creating a salve with organic, unrefined cocoa butter, olive oil, beeswax, vitamin E and lavender essential oil for her legs. As far as I am concerned, a much better ointment for the skin.

These small containers make wonderful gifts and items for your organization's holiday sale. You can be assured they will be used and requested next year! (Don't let anyone know how easy it is :) )

PS: The Medicine Kit is a great gift too!


If you do not have a local supplier you can buy the beeswax, cocoa butter and the essential oil from Mountain Rose Herbs

As the growing season slows . . .

there are plant materials waiting to be tried! Lemon balm, spearmint, lemon verbena, aloe vera, sage, basil, and several more. Will there be enough time to learn the secrets of these plants?

The jars of infused oils for lotions, massage oils and healing salves plus herbal tinctures to restore health when needed threaten to take over the kitchen.


If you are interested in learning how to use the plants from your garden, start with this free herbal course from Learning Herbs



If you need herbs to work with, Mountain Rose has a large selection plus lots of helpful information.

Looking for a simple kit to get started? Or to give as a gift to a budding herbalist?

Winter will be over before I know it!

Orange Jewelweed . . .

Impatiens capensis Family: Balsaminaceae

If you have been exposed to poison ivy, oak, or stinging nettle use the jewelweed plant. Slice the stem. Rub the juice inside on exposed parts which usually prevents breakout for most people. Use also to ease the irritation.

Brew chopped jewelweed in boiling water until you get a dark orange liquid. (Yellow Jewelweed will not yield orange color and may not be effective.) Strain the liquid. Pour into ice cube trays. Rub the skin with a jewelweed cube when you have a skin rash. It will keep in freezer up to a year.



A quick way to make a salve -

Make infused oil:

• Put 2 ounces of dried jewelweed or 4 ounces fresh jewelweed and 2 cups of olive oil in a double-boiler on very low heat and let the herb "cook" for 1 to 2 hours. Strain into a sterilized jar.

Make a salve:

• Gently heat 1 oz. beeswax in the top of a double-broiler type pan until melted. Add 1 cup of the infused oil. Wax will solidify a bit. Heat gently only until wax melts again. Stir until mixed together. Pour into containers. Let cool and cover.

Mountain Rose has a wide selection of herbal supplies

Mountain Rose Herbs Wins 2008 Green Business of the Year

If you do not grow your own plant materials Mountain Rose Herbs is an excellent source.

From the news:

Since 1987, Mountain Rose Herbs, based in Eugene, Oregon, has been known for its uncompromising commitment to organic agriculture, sustainable business practices and steadfast focus on the pure aesthetics and freshness of botanical products. Their wide range of product offerings includes bulk herbs and spices, aromatherapy and essential oils, tea and tea supplies and natural health and body care. Every aspect of product creation is carried out in accordance to strict quality control and organic handling procedures by employees who care. From their fragrant and beyond-fresh organic herbs and spices, to soothing essential oils and delicious herbal teas, the quality and integrity of Mountain Rose Herbs is unparalleled--with smiles guaranteed. To learn more about Mountain Rose Herbs please visit: