A Guide to Flowers for Healing Ointments
Flowers have long been revered not only for their beauty but also for their therapeutic properties. This florist guide provides an overview of some common flowers that can be used to create healing ointments, highlighting their benefits and preparation methods.
Calendula (Marigold)
Benefits:
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Helps soothe minor wounds, burns, and skin irritations.
Preparation:
Harvest fresh calendula flowers.
Infuse in a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut) for 4-6 weeks in a warm, sunny location.
Strain the infused oil and mix with beeswax to create a balm.
Chamomile
Benefits:
Calms skin irritations and promotes healing.
Contains anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for eczema and rashes.
Preparation:
Use dried chamomile flowers and infuse in your chosen carrier oil as with calendula.
After straining, combine with beeswax to thicken for a topical balm.
Comfrey
Benefits:
Renowned for its ability to promote tissue healing.
Effective for bruises, sprains, and bone fractures.
Preparation:
Gather fresh comfrey leaves and flowers.
Following the same infusion method, allow to steep for several weeks in oil.
Combine with beeswax to create a soothing ointment.
Lavender
Benefits:
Possesses calming, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Often used for burns, insect bites, and general skin irritation.
Preparation:
Use both fresh or dried lavender flowers for infusion.
After the infusion, strain and mix with beeswax for a calming balm.
Aloe Vera
Benefits:
Although not a traditional flower, Aloe Vera's gel is famed for wound healing and moisturising properties.
Works well with cuts, burns, and dry skin.
Preparation:
Cut a mature Aloe Vera leaf and scoop out the gel.
Combine the gel with infused oils from the flowers mentioned to enhance healing properties.
Yarrow
Benefits:
Known for its ability to help stop bleeding and reduce inflammation.
Suitable for treating cuts, wounds, and skin irritations.
Preparation:
Gather fresh yarrow flowers and leaves.
Infuse in carrier oil and strain; mix with beeswax for an effective ointment.
General Tips for Preparation:
Always conduct a patch test to check for allergies before applying any new ointment to a larger area of skin.
Store ointments in clean, sterilised containers, ideally in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.
Utilising the healing properties of these flowers can enhance wellness and promote natural remedies for skin ailments. Keep in mind local guidelines on plant usage and ensure ethical harvesting practices.
