Making your own chickweed ointment is not only rewarding, but also surprisingly easy. The process connects you to the age-old tradition of herbal medicine preparation, allowing you to reap the natural benefits of chickweed right from your backyard. Here’s a streamlined approach to making your own chickweed ointment:
Feeder or source bird wall: Start by collecting fresh chickweed. If foraging is not an option, purchasing high quality dried chickweed from a reputable supplier is a good alternative. I recommend Mountain rose herbs – they are my go to place when I want to buy herbs that I don’t grow or forage myself.
Dry the chickweed: Fresh chickweed should be dried slightly to remove excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage. Spread the herb in a warm, dry place for a few hours, away from direct sunlight.
Pour the oil: Place the dried chickweed in a jar and cover it with a carrier oil such as olive oil or almond oil. Seal the jar and leave it in a sunny spot for 3-4 weeks, shaking it gently every few days. For a faster method, gently heat the oil and chickweed in a double boiler for a few hours so it doesn’t overheat.
Strain the oil: Once the infusion process is complete, strain the oil through cheesecloth to remove all plant material and squeeze out as much oil as possible.
Prepare the ointment: Melt beeswax in a double boiler. For each cup of infused oil, use about 1 ounce of beeswax for a solid ointment consistency. Adjust the amount of beeswax to achieve the desired texture.
Combine oil and beeswax: Once the beeswax has melted, add the infused oil and stir well. Add the optional lavender essential oil.
Pour the mixture: Remove from heat and quickly pour the mixture into clean cans or jars before it hardens.
Cool and store: Allow the ointment to cool completely before sealing the containers. Store in a cool, dark place. The ointment should last for up to a year.
Making chickweed salve is a wonderful way to introduce natural skin care practices. Not only do you get a product that is free of synthetic additives, but you also get the satisfaction of having created a healing remedy with your own hands. Whether used for personal care or as a thoughtful homemade gift, chickweed ointment is a wonderful way to embrace the healing power of nature.