DIY: Bruise Balm

Bruise balm - set in the containers 

I don't know about you, but I am really clumsy, if there is something to trip over or fall on, I am there! This means I bruise, sprain, and injure myself quite frequently.

I prefer to make my own remedies wherever possible, especially for minor injuries or illnesses. (of course i see a Medical Professional/Doctor when the injury or illness is serious - I take a balanced view in healing and know when to bring in the big guns..)

I have an ointment i use in my herbal first aid kit, (there are many ointment recipes that are of use to treat bruises and sprains, this is just one of them), that I created a while back and I find it really effective to help alleviate pain and swelling on minor sprains, strains and bruises.

DO keep it away from open wounds and your eyes, this stuff contains ginger and cayenne and will STING!

I wanted to share it with you, (I published this recipe originally  my website: apothecarygreens.weebly.com)

Bruise balm - just poured into containers and cooling

This balm must not be used on broken skin (as it may sting!) Useful for bringing out and soothing bruises, sprains and external muscle and joint inflammation. Be cautious if you have any allergies to any of the ingredients.  Please seek the assistance of a health care professional  when needed.

INGREDIENTS
100 ml oil infused arnica flowers
50 ml oil infused chamomile flowers
50 ml oil infused ground ginger root
50 ml oil infused dried cayenne
beeswax
1 vitamin E capsule
containers
labels
saucepan
measuring jug/scales

METHOD

• with a saucepan on a LOW heat add the infused oils (to make 250 ml of combined oil)
• add 25 grams of beeswax
• melt the beeswax stirring it through
• turn the heat off and add the contents of the Vitamin E capsule, stir through
• then pour the mixture into sterilised containers
• leave to cool before you put the lids on!
• label the containers with what it is what it is used for, when it was made, any cautions it needs, (e.g. do not use near eyes or open wounds), the best before date and the creation date.
• The vitamin E will preserve the ointment so it will last up to twelve months if stored in a cool dark place

USES
apply to bruises, sprains, sore backs as needed.
be careful not to apply on or near open wounds and keep away form your eyes! (cayenne stings!)

HOW IT WORKS

• Arnica: helps to reduce swelling, brings bruises up to the surface to encourage healing
• Chamomile: helps to reduce inflammation and is calming to the skin
• Ginger: warming, pain relief, encourages blood flow to the injury to promote healing
• Cayenne: warming, pain relief, and encourages blood flow to promote healing

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 NOTE: The information in this blog does not constitute the practice of medicine, and does not replace the advice of your health care provider.