Goldenrod Salve
A gentle skin salve made from a warm oil infusion of fresh goldenrod tops, set with wax for a smooth, spreadable texture. Use thinly on minor irritations, insect bites, and small, non-bleeding scrapes.
Equipment
- cutting board and knife
- Heatproof jar or small beaker for the oil infusion
- Saucepan for a water bath
- Fine sieve or muslin cloth
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Small thermometer (optional)
- Small tins or jars (30–50 ml) with lids
- Labels and pen
Ingredients
- 1 handful fresh goldenrod flowers + young leaves coarsely chopped (tops only)
- 100 ml olive oil or almond oil
- 10 g beeswax for a medium-firm salve
- Vegan option: 5–6 g candelilla wax or 4–5 g carnauba wax stronger gelling; use a bit less than beeswax
- Optional: 3–5 drops vitamin E oil antioxidant
Instructions
- Warm infusion: Combine chopped goldenrod and oil in a heatproof jar. Place in a gentle water bath and keep warm (not boiling) for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain: Pour through muslin or a fine sieve, pressing the plant material well to collect the infused oil. Wipe the jar clean.
- Add wax: Return the infused oil to the warm jar in the water bath. Add wax and stir until fully melted and uniform.
- Test consistency (optional): Place a few drops on a cold spoon; let set 1 minute. For a firmer salve add a little more wax; for softer, add a splash of oil.
- Pot and cool: Pour the liquid salve into clean tins or jars. Let cool undisturbed, then cap and label.
- Use: Apply a thin layer to clean, intact skin on minor irritations, insect bites, or small, non-bleeding scrapes. Use 1–3× daily as needed.
Notes
- Plant parts: Use only tops (flowers + tender leaves). Tough stems dilute the infusion.
- Storage & shelf life: Keep cool, dark, and tightly closed; use within 6–12 months. Vitamin E can help slow oxidation.
- Sensitivity: People sensitive to Asteraceae (daisy family) should patch-test first.
- Safety: Do not use on deep, bleeding, or oozing wounds. Discontinue if redness or irritation occurs. In pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for children, seek professional advice before use.
- Cleanliness: Sterilize or at least heat-sanitize tins/jars; use a clean spatula to dispense to prolong shelf life.