Uses for Salamanca Salve

Imagine living in the harsh climate and wilderness of New York state before there existed the comforts of highways and modern cities. The Native Americans who explored and lived in these dangerous lands found infinite ways of dealing with infections, poisons and disease. Today we are still learning from the incredible discoveries they made hundreds of years ago, such as the Salamanca salve, which people still use to treat blisters or small cuts.

History

• The Indian Reservation in Salamanca, New York is well-known for what we call the Salamanca salve. This heavy salve was long used by the native people as a drawing agent that could pull unwanted toxins and infections from small wounds. It is now marketed by various small businesses, both online and offline, as a temporary relief of minor skin irritations.

Ingredients

• There are four active ingredients found in the modern version of a Salamanca salve which are meant to help deal with skin irritations or small infections. Beth root, also known as Stinking Benjamin, is a spring-time flower found in North America. Although it should never be consumed by humans and has a faint scent similar to rotting meat, it can ease blistering when applied externally. The antimicrobial properties of both indigo and wormwood are also put to good use in the Salamanca salve. The whole thing is then steeped in a petrolatum base to help provide consistency.

Poison Ivy

• Dealing with infection was just one part of daily native life in New York state. Urushiol, the compound produced by poison ivy, was dealt with through the use of Salamanca salves. The active properties of wormwood and beth root can provide relief from even the strongest reactions. Other skin inflammations and irritations such as rashes and insect bites are typical uses for the salve.

Blisters

• In some cases, even when the skin has been broken, the use of salves is appropriate. Small cuts or blisters should be treated to avoid infection. This can be quite unpleasant at first, naturally stinging, but the salve can quickly seal the opening and provide pain relief. Avoid this with larger cuts where blood is flowing freely as this might instead promote infection in the area.