I have always enjoyed making my own lotions and balms; And ointments. Not only is it affordable, but it’s a great way to have natural skincare easily at your fingertips. This dandelion ointment is one of my latest creations.
Dandelion flaunts There are many health benefits, and it is unfortunate that many people try hard to get rid of them. Young spring leaves are great in salads. You can use the dried and roasted root as Coffee substitute. The flower buds make delicious wine, jelly, and more.
While many people use dandelion internally for its liver health and antioxidant effects, you can also use it topically.
Benefits of dandelion ointment
It’s easy to find a lot of claims when it comes to dandelion ointment. Although there is not a lot of research to support these claims, there is a lot of historical use and anecdotal evidence. Here’s some of what science says.
Research conducted in 2022 investigated the effects of dandelion essential oil on cancer and tumors. They found that it has powerful antioxidant properties and helped prevent the growth and reproduction of cancer cells. This study was performed on cells and mice in the laboratory, so more research is needed before conclusions can be made. However, the volatile oil found in dandelion shows promising results for maintaining healthy skin and cells.
Another study looked at dandelion seed oil specifically. They also found that it has strong antioxidant power and inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Antioxidants used On the skinLike dandelion ointment, it has many health benefits, including:
- Help slow aging and cell damage
- Improve hydration
- Reducing the appearance of wrinkles
- Collagen stimulation
- Support skin healing
Traditionally, dandelion ointment is used as a mild pain reliever and anti-inflammatory for joint pain and sore muscles.
Other ingredients to brag about
Dandelion is great for many things, but there are other really helpful ingredients in this salve as well. I’ve included shea butter for its skin softening properties and to help thicken the ointment. Indigenous healers have traditionally used Shea Butter to treat muscle pain and strains, arthritis and improve skin health for many years.
Beeswax also helps thicken the ointment and add a protective layer over the skin. It helps the skin retain moisture, does not clog pores, and has powerful antioxidant properties to protect skin cells. Researchers note that beeswax byproducts are a rich source of proteins, minerals and polyphenols.
Essential oils to use in dandelion ointment
Finally, there are optional essential oils. This ointment works great without it, but it definitely adds some powerful healing benefits of its own. You can add muscle-soothing essential oils such as basil, marjoram, or frankincense. Frankincense is also a powerful skin protectant. Lavender is another favorite for all kinds of skin problems.
In this batch, I used frankincense, turmeric, and valerian essential oil.
How to make dandelion ointment
The first step is to get some dandelion flowers. You can find Dandelion leaf For sale online, but this plant is also prolific in most backyards. Make sure to harvest from areas that have not been sprayed with pesticides and herbicides and not from places where dogs go about their business. Dandelions have long tap roots that are great at absorbing nutrients and toxins from the soil.
Most recipes (and this one) use dandelion flowers, but dandelion leaves also have many of the same benefits if that’s all you can find.
Drying dandelion
Once you have purchased some dandelion flowers, it is time to dry them. Some people recommend rinsing the dandelions first, but they tend to get clumpy and soggy. You can simply place it on a clean towel and check it for any defects or wash it.
Let them air dry on a clean tea towel for several days until they are wilted and no longer soggy. This works best in a warm, sunny location. It is important to dry the flowers to help prevent the oil from rotting due to waterlogging.
Infused dandelion oil
Once the dandelions are completely dry, it’s time to soak them in oil. Place the dandelion heads in a clean, dry 8-ounce (or larger) glass jar. Fill the jar about halfway to two-thirds full with dandelions.
Next, pour the liquid oil of your choice on top. Olive oil, avocado oil, and sweet almond oil are good options. Coconut oil can work if you make sure it stays in a warm place so the coconut oil doesn’t harden. Make sure the dandelions are covered, seal the jar and leave them to steep for several weeks in a sunny location.
Want a faster way? Check out my guide on how to Infuse herbal oils hereincluding faster payments. Once steeped, use several layers of cheesecloth to strain the flowers and retain the oil. This is the oil you will use in your dandelion ointment recipe.
Ready to make it happen? Here’s how!
DIY dandelion ointment recipe
This easy salve recipe uses the humble dandelion to soothe aching muscles and aching joints and protect the skin.
fruit: 5 ounce
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To the top of a double boiler or glass bowl, add the dandelion oil, shea butter, and beeswax. Heat it over medium heat and stir occasionally until it dissolves completely.
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Once melted, turn off the heat and add the essential oils and vitamin E oil if using.
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Immediately pour the ointment into glass jars or cans.
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Place the ointment in the refrigerator to chill until firm, about an hour.
Store in a cool, dry place. This ointment will last up to a year when stored properly. Discard it if the oil starts to smell or become rancid.
More ointment recipes
Here are some other ointment recipes I’ve made over the years to try.
Have you ever made your own recipes using chicory before? Leave a comment and share below!
