Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) salve is an effective multipurpose balm that is great to have in your medicine cabinet. In Latin it’s name, solidago, means “to make whole” which alludes to it’s numerous healing properties.
Goldenrod has anti-inflammatory effects and is utilized topically on sore muscles, achy joints, and injuries to help reduce pain & swelling.
It’s also wonderfully healing and soothing to the skin, and has long been used for wounds and burns. It makes a great “boo boo balm” for children’s various cuts & scrapes. And I find it soothes chapped lips particularly well.
The first step to making this healing salve is infusing olive oil with goldenrod. There are several different methods for making goldenrod oil. Here are two simple options:
Folk Method —-
Fill a clean, dry jar half full with dried goldenrod and then pour olive oil over it, making sure to cover the plant matter with the oil by at least an inch or so. Put the lid on the jar and shake the jar to ensure the oil has fully incorporated with the plant matter.
Stash the jar in a warm, dark spot for 4-6 weeks, shaking it every few days or so. When the oil has infused, strain the plant matter out using a fine cheesecloth. Re-jar your infused oil and be sure to label it.
Quick Method —-
Fill a dry, heat proof jar or heat-proof glass measuring cup about half full with goldenrod. Pour in the olive oil, making sure the herb is fully submerged and covered with at least an inch or so of oil.
Gently heat over very low heat (ideally 100–140° F) for 1 to 5 hours in a double boiler or crockpot. The oil has finished infusing when the color and smell of the herb has been imparted.
Strain the oil through a cheesecloth and it’s ready to use! Pour any excess infused oil into a glass jar and be sure to label it including the date the oil was made, type of herb used, and type of carrier oil used. For best shelf life, store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
Tip: Use dried or wilted herbs to reduce moisture, which causes oils to go rancid.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oil can be added, if desired. It is a supportive addition, as it can be helpful for boosting circulation, reducing inflammation, easing pain & swelling, and it has potent antimicrobial effects.
However, when making a salve that will be used by my young children, I typically omit essential oils, since they are so highly concentrated, and I want to keep remedies I’m using on them as gentle & safe as possible.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup goldenrod olive oil
- 1/2 oz cacao butter
- 1/2 oz beeswax
- 5 drops rosemary essential oil (optional)
Directions:
Add the infused oil, cacao butter, and beeswax to a double boiler. Heat until fully melted, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the rosemary essential oil, if desired. Pour into small jars or tins. Let cool, uncovered until hardened. Cover and label the containers.
