How to Make Arnica Salves

Arnica salve has a multitude of uses. The salve reportedly soothes bruises, relieves rheumatoid arthritic pain, is good for dry skin, gout and even headaches. The salve is popular in Europe and North America. Homemade salves and remedies are gaining popularity in the United States as over-the-counter medicine prices soar. Natural remedies are also being recognized as a viable alternative to synthetic drugs.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup of organic, cold-pressed olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried Arnica
• 1 tablespoon grated beeswax
• 3 (400 unit) Vitamin E capsules
• Cheesecloth
• Oven-safe dish
• Pans
• 5-ounce jar

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Instructions

• 1

  Place dried Arnica into an oven-safe dish and pour in olive oil. Stir and place in oven pre-heated to 200 degrees. Bake for three hours.

• 2

  Allow the mixture to cool. Strain the mixture in the cheesecloth while still warm. Squeeze as much oil as possible from the herbs.

• 3

  Place the Arnica in a pot or double boiler. A small pan can be placed in a larger pan of water if you don't have a double boiler. On low heat re-heat the herbs, taking care not to burn them.

• 4

  Puncture and add the liquid from the Vitamin E capsules and beeswax. Stir until all ingredients are melted and blended.

• 5

  Remove from heat and allow to cool for two minutes. Pour into a jar. As the mixture cools it will become a semi-solid salve.