I was introduced to the concept of DIY black drawing salve as a natural remedy during a visit to a local Amish community to purchase produce and eggs. I observed one of the farmer’s sons applying what seemed like tar to his arm after getting a splinter from a fence post.
Curious, I inquired about the salve he was using and learned that it was a drawing salve designed to extract the splinter and prevent infection. Intrigued by its effectiveness, I wondered how well it would work.
The farmer assured me that the salve did not stain the skin and was a common remedy in their community. They used drawing salve to accelerate wound healing and remove foreign objects embedded in the skin. He mentioned that it was even useful for treating spider bites to extract venom.
Although he was unsure of where to purchase it, he kindly offered to provide me with the recipe.
Black Drawing Salve Benefits
Since then, I have been experimenting with various versions of the recipe. While it takes time to prepare, the salve is highly effective and well worth the effort. We primarily use it for splinters and glass shards stuck in the skin. Although I have not personally tested it, black drawing salves are also reputed to be effective in removing moles and skin tags.
The herbal properties of the salve help soothe skin irritation and insect bites. It’s a valuable addition to a natural first aid kit for treating bee stings as well!
How to Make Herb Infused Oil
Prior to making the salve, it is essential to infuse olive oil with comfrey, calendula, and plantain. I grind them in a coffee grinder just before use to enhance their potency. I typically use 1 tablespoon of each herb in 1/2 cup of olive oil. Here are two methods for creating an infused oil:
- Grind the herbs and place them in a small jar. Pour olive oil over the herbs and allow it to infuse for 3-4 weeks, shaking daily. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth and retain the infused oil.
- Heat the herbs and olive oil in a double boiler. Simmer on low/medium heat for about an hour until the oil becomes aromatic and darker. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth.
Personally, I keep a large jar of olive oil infused with plantain, comfrey, and calendula in my herbal apothecary, allowing it to continuously infuse for use in salves and lotions. Once the oil is used up, I discard the herbs and begin the infusion process anew.
With the infused oil ready, you can proceed to make your homemade drawing salve!
Black Drawing Salve Recipe
This homemade drawing salve is an old Amish recipe designed to remove stubborn splinters and promote skin healing. It is also beneficial for bug bites, skin tags, and more!
Yield: 6.5 ounces
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Combine infused olive oil, shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax, vitamin E oil, and honey in a heat-safe glass jar placed in a small pan of water.
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Simmer the water and stir the mixture in the jar until all ingredients are melted. Alternatively, use a double boiler for this step.
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Remove from heat and add the activated charcoal, kaolin clay, and lavender essential oil. Mix thoroughly.
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Pour the mixture into small glass jars or tins and allow it to harden (several hours).
Store in an airtight container and use as needed for cuts, splinters, etc.
The Ingredients and Their Benefits
The foundation of this drawing salve is an herbal infused oil. While it requires a few weeks to prepare, it offers exceptional benefits for skin health. I maintain a jar of comfrey, plantain, and calendula oil in my pantry for various home remedies and skincare projects. This herbal blend accelerates healing and reduces inflammation. Plantain also possesses gentle drawing properties to eliminate impurities and skin irritations.
Shea butter provides moisture and thickness, along with beeswax. Vitamin E oil acts as an antioxidant and slows down oxidation, preventing the oils from turning rancid. Kaolin clay, similar to bentonite clay, serves as an adsorbent for toxins and potentially bacteria. It is another key ingredient in black salve known for its drawing properties.
Raw honey boasts natural antimicrobial properties and is beneficial for a range of skin irritations. Raw honey can even be used directly as a salve for burns! The crucial ingredient that gives the salve its black hue is activated charcoal. Activated charcoal is widely recognized for its absorbing properties and is commonly used to treat food poisoning and decontaminate substances. It is effective in drawing out splinters and coaxing out ingrown hairs.
Finally, I incorporate lavender essential oil for its skin benefits and pleasant aroma. Tea tree essential oil can also be used as an alternative.
How to Use The Homemade Drawing Salve Recipe
- Clean the affected area thoroughly. Apply a generous amount of black salve to the wound or splinter and cover it with gauze or a large bandage.
- Allow it to sit for at least a few hours or overnight to draw out the infection or object. Certain items, such as glass, may require a day or two and multiple applications to draw out.
While this salve is a fantastic natural remedy, it is not a substitute for medical attention when necessary. If you are uncertain about a severe bug bite, wound, or other issue, it is best to seek advice from a professional!
Have you ever made a salve? Share your experience below!
