How to Make an Herbal Salve to Treat Minor Cuts and Scrapes

We all get minor cuts or scrapes. While these tend to be more of an irritant than a reason to go rushing off to the emergency room, these minor cuts and scrapes can become infected if left untreated. Before you buy a salve in your local pharmacy that is full of chemicals, consider using something that is all natural. An herbal salve can treat these minor wounds and help them heal faster.

The herb used in this easy-to-make salve is calendula, which sometimes is called "pot marigold." It has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians as a medicinal herb. Ancient Greek, Arabic and Indian herbalist valued calendula for its antiseptic properties and frequently used it to treat wounds. Modern day herbalists have also come to appreciate the astringent, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties of this herb.

Things You'll Need

• 4½ tbsp. calendula-infused oil
• 2 tbsp. grated beeswax
• 2 400 IU vitamin E capsules
• Double boiler
• Short, wide-mouthed jar with lid

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Instructions

• 1

  If you cannot find calendula-infused oil at your local health food or herbal store, make your own by heating 2 cups olive oil and 1 cup dried calendula blooms in a crock pot on the lowest setting for 4 to 6 hours. Strain and store in a glass jar with lid.

• 2

  Grate the beeswax into the oil. Heat the mixture in a double boiler until the wax is completely melted. Blend well and remove from the heat.

• 3

  Add the contents of 2 capsules of 400 IU vitamin E capsules. Vitamin E acts as a natural preservative. It also can aid in reducing scarring caused by minor cuts and scrapes.

• 4

  Store in a short, wide-mouthed jar. Seal. This salve can also be stored in smaller jars to carry in purses or in backpacks when hiking and camping.