The smell of cottonwood buds connects me to early springtime. They smell so woodsy and fresh, sweet and grounding. Collecting these juicy pods of healing is something I look forward to each year.
Once I collect enough buds, often only stopping when my finger tips are so sticky I can no longer pick another bud, I divide the buds up and add the buds to 1/2 gallon glass jars. I cover one collection of buds with olive oil and another collection of buds with Vitamin E oil. I cover the jars and every few days I stir the buds, ensuring the buds stay submerged below the level of oil and that mold is not forming on top of the buds. Once all the buds sink and stay below the level of oil, I place the jar in a cool, dark room and allow the buds to infuse in the oil for weeks or even months. The buds will expand and release all of the sticky cottonwood sap. After this point I strain the oil and separate the buds, reserving the infused oil and tossing the buds.
At this point you can use the cottonwood oil on its own, adding to an amber dropper bottle and use to support the skin for a variety of needs. Also, cottonwood oil is great for arthritis, sore muscles, ligaments and joints eliminating pain and inflammation. Add supporting essential oils like fir, pine, Copaiba, peppermint or lavender to the cottonwood oil for specific needs. l love to use cottonwood oil to make a wonderful salve-- dubbed the Balm of Gilead. Mentioned in the bible many times, this sweet smelling balm will connect you to the forest and serve as a healing ointment predominantly used for the skin. Simply adding beeswax and optional essential oils to the cottonwood oil you can make this ancient soothing salve or lip balm.
Balm of Gilead
This is a wonderful salve that heals and protects the skin. Use for cuts/abrasion, dry skin, eczema, rashes, cold sores, sunburns, cuticle care, dry feet, bug bites ect. Any time you might reach for an over-the-counter antibiotic cream use this instead!
1 Cup cottonwood oil, I use the oil I made with olive oil
1/2 C beeswax
Melt together slowly in double boiler. Add to 2 oz. salve container and allow to cool and solidify completely.
Use as needed, as often as needed.
+++Precaution is recommended when using cottonwood oil if allergic to bees or aspirin.
Balm of Frankincense
I add the incredible power of Frankincense essential oil and Vitamin E oil to the above recipe for an extra special healing salve for the skin. Any cut/abrasion, burn, scar, acne, ect will benefit from this amazing salve. I use this as a night time cream on my face!
1 Cup cottonwood oil, I use the oil I made with Vitamin E
1/2 C beeswax
15 drops of Frankincense Essential Oil
Melt the oil and beeswax in double boiler. Once cooled, stir in the essential oil. Add to 2 oz salve containers or lip balm tubes and allow to cool and solidify completely.
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