Highlights
What is Herbal Salve?
Herbal ointments are topical preparations made from ingredients such as herbal extracts, waxes, and oils used to treat skin problems and promote wound healing. Common herbal ointment ingredients include calendula, comfrey, mugwort and tea tree oil, etc. These ingredients have significant anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and repairing effects.
Background and history
Herbal poultices have been used for hundreds of years in traditional medicine around the world. Ancient Chinese, Greek, and Roman medical texts contain records of herbal poultices that were used to treat burns, cuts, bruises, and skin infections. Modern herbal ointments combine traditional herbal knowledge with modern scientific technology to provide a more effective and safer product.
health benefits
Promote wound healing
The herbal extracts contained in herbal ointments have significant anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, which can speed up wound healing and reduce the risk of infection. Research shows that ingredients like calendula and comfrey can promote tissue regeneration and reduce scarring. A clinical trial showed that patients who used calendula herbal ointment healed their wounds significantly faster than those who did not. [1]
Reduce skin inflammation
The anti-inflammatory ingredients in herbal ointments can effectively reduce skin inflammation and irritation, relieving redness and pain. Ingredients such as comfrey and mugwort are widely used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. One study showed that comfrey extract was able to significantly reduce the inflammatory response in experimental dermatitis. [2]
Antibacterial and antifungal
The antibacterial and antifungal ingredients in herbal ointments can effectively inhibit the growth of a variety of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, reducing the risk of infection. Ingredients like tea tree oil and mugwort have broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and are effective against bacterial and fungal infections. An in vitro study showed that tea tree oil has significant inhibitory effects on a variety of pathogenic bacteria. [3]
Moisturizes and repairs skin
The oil components in herbal ointments can effectively moisturize, increase skin elasticity, and promote skin health. Ingredients like coconut oil and beeswax are great moisturizers and can prevent skin from drying out and cracking. One study showed that coconut oil significantly improved symptoms of dry and itchy skin. [4]
Instructions
external use
Herbal ointments are usually intended for topical application, applied directly to the affected area of skin. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before use, use 1-3 times a day, adjust frequency as needed. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes during use.
For people
Herbal ointments are suitable for those who wish to promote wound healing, reduce skin inflammation, be antibacterial and moisturizing. However, those who are allergic to herbal ingredients, pregnant women, and lactating women should avoid using it and consult a doctor before use.
drug interactions
Herbal ointments may interact with certain medications, especially the following:
- Anticoagulants: such as Warfarin. Certain herbal ingredients may enhance the effect of anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding. [5]
- Skin medications: such as steroid creams. Herbal ointments may affect the absorption and effectiveness of these medications, resulting in less effective effects. [6]
- Antibiotics: Antibacterial ingredients in herbal ointments may interact with oral or topical antibiotics and affect their effectiveness. [7]
Side effects and disadvantages
Some common side effects of herbal ointments include:
- Skin allergies: Some people may be allergic to ingredients in herbal ointments and develop rashes, itching, or redness. [8]
- Skin irritation: Some ingredients in herbal ointments may cause irritation to sensitive skin, causing a stinging or burning sensation. [9]
In addition, long-term or excessive use of herbal ointments may lead to more serious health problems:
- Dry skin: Ingredients in some herbal ointments may over-dry the skin, causing cracking and discomfort. [10]
- Pigmentation: Long-term use of certain herbal ointments may cause skin pigmentation, affecting the appearance of the skin. [11]
People with skin conditions or allergies to herbal ingredients should avoid using herbal ointments and consult a doctor before use.
Other important or interesting information
In addition to their health benefits, herbal poultices are also used in beauty products and natural skin care products. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it ideal for treating skin problems and promoting skin health.
in conclusion
Herbal ointments have received extensive attention and research as a natural preparation with a variety of potential health benefits. While it has the potential to promote wound healing, reduce skin inflammation, be antibacterial, and moisturize, care should be taken when using it with dosage and possible side effects. It is recommended to consult a professional doctor before use to ensure safety and efficacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of herbal ointments?
Herbal poultices provide natural healing benefits including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal effects. They are used to soothe skin irritations, treat minor cuts, and moisturize dry skin.
What are ointments used for?
Ointments are used to treat and soothe a variety of skin conditions such as cuts, burns, rashes, insect bites, and dry or cracked skin.
Which herbs are best for use in salves?
Common herbs used in salves include calendula, healing grass, lavender, chamomile, and plantain, which are known for their soothing and healing effects.
What are the benefits of healing balm?
Therapeutic balms help promote healing of minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and other skin irritations. It helps reduce inflammation and infection while soothing and moisturizing the skin.
How long does the herbal ointment last?
Herbal poultice usually lasts for one to two years if stored properly in a cool, dark place.
What is the difference between ointments and ointments?
The main differences are consistency and base material. Salves are thicker and usually use beeswax or oil as a base, while ointments may be softer and may contain petroleum jelly as a base.
Which ointment is used to drain the infection?
Detox balms often contain ingredients like Ichthyostatin or activated charcoal to draw out infections, splinters, and toxins.
Will the ointment be absorbed into the skin?
Yes, the ointment is designed to be absorbed by the skin, delivering the benefits of the herbs directly to the affected area.
Where to apply ointment?
Ointments are applied to affected areas of skin that require soothing, healing or moisturizing.
What does herbal poultice mean?
Herbal creams refer to topical applications made from natural herbs and oils used to promote skin healing and relieve various skin conditions.
What are natural ointments?
A natural ointment is a topical ointment made from natural ingredients, including herbs, oils, and beeswax, and is free of synthetic chemicals and preservatives.
Are ointments good for the skin?
Yes, ointment is good for the skin as it provides natural healing, soothing and moisturizing effects.
What is the ointment used for?
The purpose of ointments is to treat, soothe, and protect the skin from a variety of conditions, including dryness, irritation, and minor injuries.
What is the difference between hand cream and ointment?
Hand creams are formulated to moisturize and protect the hands and are generally lighter and less greasy, while salves are more versatile, thicker, and used for a wider range of skin problems.
What are the benefits of self-healing cream?
Self-healing balm made from Prunella vulgaris is good for treating minor cuts, scrapes, bruises and skin irritations due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Which herbs are suitable for use in ointments?
Calendula, healing grass, lavender, chamomile, plantain, and St. John's wort are herbs commonly used in salves for their healing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What is the use of multi-purpose ointment?
All-purpose balm is used to treat a variety of skin problems, including dry skin, minor cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites, and rashes.
What is the difference between oil and ointment?
Oils are liquid extracts used for massage and moisturizing, while salves are thicker, semi-solid preparations made with oils and beeswax for specific treatments on the skin.
What is the difference between ointments and creams?
The difference is in the base and texture. Ointments are thicker and oil-based, forming a protective layer on the skin, while creams are emulsions of water and oil and are lighter and easier to absorb.
How to use skin ointments?
Skin ointment is applied directly to the affected skin area and massage gently until absorbed. Can be used throughout the day as needed.
How to make herbal pain relief ointment?
To make herbal pain relief salve, combine a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil) with pain relief herbs (such as arnica, cayenne pepper, or ginger), strain and combine with melted beeswax to create a thick spreadable paste. Pour into a container and cool before use.
references
[1] Zaid, AN, Jaradat, NA, Eid, AM, & Al-Ramahi, R. (2012). Ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal herbs in Israel, the Golan Heights and the West Bank region. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(2 ), 381-400. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.11.028.
[2] Ernst, E. (2005). The efficacy of herbal medicine–an overview. Fundamental & Clinical Pharmacology, 19(4), 405-409. DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-8206.2005.00335.x.
[3] Carson, CF, & Riley, TV (2003). Antimicrobial activity of the major components of the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 95(4), 853-860. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365 -2672.2003.02009.x.
[4] Verallo-Rowell, VM, Dillague, KM, & Syah-Tjundawan, BS (2008). Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis, 19(6), 308-315. DOI: 10.2310/6620.2008.07034.
[5] Heck, AM, DeWitt, BA, & Lukes, AL (2000). Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, 57(13), 1221-1227. DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/ 57.13.1221.
[6] Borgia, F., Custurone, P., Cardia, L., Li Pomi, N., & Vaccaro, M. (2020). Herbal medicine and dermatology: A review of the evidence. Phytotherapy Research, 34(1) ), 1-13. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6483.
[7] Perry, NB, Burgess, EJ, & Glennie, VL (1999). Echinacea standardization: analytical methods for phenolic compounds and typical levels in medicinal species. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 47(10), 3633-3639. DOI: 10.1021/jf981161k.
[8] Ernst, E. (2000). Adverse effects of herbal drugs in dermatology. British Journal of Dermatology, 143(5), 923-929. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2000.03805.x.
[9] Bone, K. (2003). Potential interaction of complementary medicines with warfarin. Australian Family Physician, 32(5), 399-401. DOI: 10.3399/bjgp03X101653.
[10] Kok, PG, & Pinder, RM (2005). Herbal remedies in dermatology. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 30(6), 726-731. DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2005.01936.x.
[11] Bone, K. (2003). Potential interaction of complementary medicines with warfarin. Australian Family Physician, 32(5), 399-401. DOI: 10.3399/bjgp03X101653.
