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If you are not familiar with Goldenrod, then you are in for a treat.
Goldenrod, with its vibrant yellow flowers, has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, this herb can soothe and heal a multitude of skin conditions, from dryness and eczema to minor cuts and burns.
Making a salve with goldenrod is a simple process. Here’s an easy guide on how to make it at home.
About Goldenrod
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is a flowering plant native to North America. It is characterized by its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. While often mistaken for a weed, goldenrod has a long history of use in traditional medicine due to its therapeutic properties.
Goldenrod serves dual roles as both a food source and a medicinal resource. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it has been a part of ancient culture’s diets for as long as it has existed.
The use of Goldenrod extract in oils, ointments, salves, tinctures, teas, and other medical applications has been well established in history, and many homesteading families also know of the amazing benefits Goldenrod-infused products offer.
Medicinally, goldenrod is valued for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which help to flush toxins from the body and speed recovery.
Ingredients for Goldenrod Salve
- 1 cup infused golden rod oil (The base of the salve is a goldenrod-infused oil created by steeping the goldenrod flowers in a carrier oil, such as olive oil. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make goldenrod oil).
- 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets – Beeswax acts as a natural thickener in the salve. It helps to solidify the oil and create a smooth, creamy texture. (find it here)
- Tin Container (Find it here)
This recipe usually makes about 4 2oz tins.
Instructions: Goldenrod Salve
- Prepare the goldenrod-infused oil: Start by filling a clean glass jar halfway with dried goldenrod flowers or two-thirds full with fresh goldenrod flowers. Pour your chosen carrier oil over the flowers, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Secure the lid tightly and place the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to promote the infusion process.
- Strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove the goldenrod flowers. Squeeze the cloth or strainer to extract as much oil as possible.
- In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, melt the beeswax and goldenrod oil until it becomes fully liquid.
- Carefully pour the mixture into the tin containers while it is still warm and liquid.
- Allow the salve to cool for a few hours or overnight until it is solidified completely. Once it is solidified, you can then seal the tin containers.
And that’s it. You can now use your own goldenrod salve at home.
How to Store Goldenrod Salve
The salve can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months. Adding Vitamin E oil can help further preserve the salve.
Make sure the lid is placed securely back on after each use.
How to Use Goldenrod Salve
Apply as needed: Apply a small amount of the salve to the affected area and massage it into the skin until fully absorbed. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
While goldenrod salve is generally safe for most people, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using it.
Why We Love Using Goldenrod
Goldenrod Salve offers a wide range of benefits. Here are just a few:
- It has soothing and healing properties.
- Moisturizes and hydrates: Goldenrod salve helps lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
- Calm inflammation: The anti-inflammatory compounds found in goldenrod can help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation caused by various skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis.
- Soothes itchiness: If you suffer from itchy skin, goldenrod can provide relief by soothing and calming the affected areas.
- Goldenrod salve contains properties that can speed up the healing process of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, helping to reduce scarring and promote healthy skin regeneration.
Uses for Goldenrod Salve
Here are some ways in which you can use your goldenrod salve:
- Lip balm: Apply a thin layer of goldenrod salve to your lips for a natural and moisturizing lip balm.
- Apply a small salve to insect bites or stings to soothe itching and reduce inflammation.
- Use the salve to alleviate minor skin irritations, such as rashes, sunburns, or chafed skin.
- Massage a small amount of salve into your cuticles to moisturize and nourish them.
- Gently massage the salve into sore muscles or achy joints for temporary relief.
Remember, goldenrod salve is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have any severe or persistent skin issues, consult a healthcare professional.
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Homemade Goldenrod Salve Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup infused golden rod oil
- 2 tbsp beeswax pellets
- tin container
Instructions
- Prepare the goldenrod-infused oil: Start by filling a clean glass jar halfway with dried goldenrod flowers or two-thirds full with fresh goldenrod flowers. Pour your chosen carrier oil over the flowers, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Secure the lid tightly and place the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to promote the infusion process.
- Strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove the goldenrod flowers. Squeeze the cloth or strainer to extract as much oil as possible.
- In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water, melt the beeswax and goldenrod oil until it becomes fully liquid.
- Carefully pour the mixture into the tin containers while it is still warm and liquid.
- Allow the salve to cool for a few hours or overnight until it is solidified completely. Once it is solidified, you can then seal the tin containers.
