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What is Dandelion Salve Good For?
One of the things I absolutely love to make when dandelions start appearing is this lovely dandelion salve. This is such a simple wildcrafted recipe that’s suited to beginner herbalists.
So, while my neighbors are out doing everything the can to have dandelion-free lawns, I am relishing the sight of these golden beauties.Â
I bet you’re wondering what you can possibly use dandelions for. Theyre actually highly nutritive and medicinal.
Dandelion flowers have pain releiving and anti-inflammatory properties which makes this dandelion salve the perfect herbal formulation for aches and pains and for dry, cracked or itchy skin…plus dandelions are so easy to forage for.Â
How Long Does Dandelion Salve Last?
The shelf life of strained infused oils is typically around 1 year and is how long you can expect your salve to last.
I always use food grade tins for my salves and I keep them in a coolplace so that the don’t liquidize.Â
How Do YouMake Dandelion Salve?
Dandelion Salve
Ingredients
Dandelion Infused Oil
- 1 cup dried dandelion flowers
- 1 ½ cups carrier oil of your choice. My favorites are olive oil, sweet almond or jojoba.
Dandelion Salve
- 1 cup dandelion infused oil
- 1 ounce beeswax
- 1 ounce refined shea butter
- 12-24 drops essential oils of your choice lavender and sweet orange work well optional
Instructions
Dandelion Infused Oil
- Put the dried dandelion flowers into a pint sized jar and cover them with the carrier oil of your choice.
- Let your dandelion oil sit in a dark place for a week or two, but not too much longer than that, as it can spoil pretty quickly.
- Strain out the flowers using a fine mesh sieve and a cheesecloth so that you can really squeeze all of the dandelion goodness out.
Dandelion Salve
- Create a makeshift double boiler by putting a small bowl or a glass Pyrex measuring cup over a pot with about an inch of simmering water.
- Put the dandelion oil and beeswax into the small bowl or Pyrex, and heat until the beeswax completely dissolves into the oil, stirring occasionally.
- Add the shea butter and stir until it completely dissolves.
- Stir in the essential oils.
- Carefully pour the mixture into small jars or tins and let sit until the salve sets up completely.
Notes
Why Use Dried Dandelion?
It’s essential to dry the dandelion flowers before infusing them in oil. Here are a few reasons why:
Preventing mold growth: Dandelion flowers contain moisture, and if you infuse them in oil while they’re still fresh, the oil can become contaminated with mold or bacteria. Drying the flowers first ensures that all moisture has been removed, preventing the growth of mold or other microorganisms.
Enhancing the infusion process: Drying the dandelion flowers helps to break down the cell walls, making it easier for the oil to extract the beneficial compounds from the plant material. This can result in a more potent and effective oil.
Reducing the risk of spoilage: Infused oils can spoil over time, particularly if they contain water or moisture. By drying the dandelion flowers before infusing them, you reduce the risk of spoilage and extend the shelf life of your infused oil.
Overall, drying dandelion flowers before infusing them in oil is an essential step that can help to ensure the quality and effectiveness of your finished product. It’s easy to dry dandelion flowers by spreading them out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface, such as a baking sheet or tray, and allowing them to air dry for several days. Once they’re completely dry, you can begin the infusion process and enjoy the many benefits of this versatile herb.
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I can’t wait to try this!
Awesome! I’m glad to hear it!
I put the dandelions in oil for 12 days and when I tool them out there was mold on top. Can I remove the mold and still make the salve. I put the dandelions in the refrigerator over night before I added the oil. Is that what I did wrong?
Hello,
To make salve using dandelions, you need to dry them first before starting the process. Fresh dandelion will create a breathing ground for molds and bacteria. Please discard because they can’t be used. Then pick fresh dandelions and dry first before infusing in oil.