Balm of Gilead Salve/ Poplar Bud Salve

An elder taught me about the wonderful “sticky buds” from the cottonwood tree. Walking by a cottonwood one day on the edge of her property she spoke about a medicine she made for her livestock and herself as a young woman. Each spring the Laughing Lichen crew harvests a limited amount of the sticky and sweet smelling unopened leaf buds. They are loaded with resin which protects the developing leaf as it grows. This sticky resin not only protects the trees developing leaves but also contains medicinal properties that support skin conditions when used in a balm or ointment. Our Poplar bud salve (also referred to as Balm of Gilead) is a multi purpose salve that can be used as an aid in the treatment of bug bites, sun burn, dry itchy skin, psoriasis, eczema, light rashes and wind burn. Health Benefits: Willow leaf and inner bark, which contain salicin, an anti-inflammatory compound similar to the active ingredient in aspirin, may help reduce pain and inflammation. Yarrow has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Yarrow is reputed to increase circulation and aids in the healing of bruises, itchy bug bites, rashes and swelling. Plantain has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties and may be useful in treating insect bites, rashes, and other skin irritations. Spring poplar buds contain salicin, which can help reduce pain and inflammation, making them useful in treating conditions such as arthritis, muscle and joint pain, and skin irritations. Ingredients and Use: Our salve is carefully crafted with a blend of hand foraged wild willow leaf and inner bark (Salix sp), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), plantain (Plantago major), and spring poplar buds (Populus balsamifera), each known for their potential medicinal benefits. To use, simply apply a small amount of our Balm of Gilead Salve to the affected area and massage gently into the skin. Allow the healing properties of the salve to work their magic and soothe your skin. Using wild products not only benefits our health but also supports the natural environment. Our “Balm of Gilead Salve” is made with locally-sourced and wild-harvested ingredients that are free of harmful chemicals and pesticides. By using natural ingredients, we ensure that our products are gentle on your skin. But there’s more to using natural products than just the health benefits. There’s a special kind of magic that comes with using products that are handcrafted with love and care. Our “Balm of Gilead Salve” is made in small batches by our skilled artisans, who take pride in every jar they create. Each jar is infused with positive energy and the spirit of the wild, creating a connection between you and the natural world. By sourcing our ingredients from local farmers and wild-harvesting in a sustainable manner, we reduce our carbon footprint and support the local economy. By choosing our “Balm of Gilead Salve”, you are making a conscious decision to make a positive impact on the world around you. Our “Balm of Gilead Salve” is a way to treat yourself to a moment of self-care while feeling good about your impact on the world. Topical Use Only, as with any new product please test a small patch of skin to rule out allergies. Please note that this product should be avoided by anyone that is allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family or to salicin. DisclaimerThe above information is for educational purposes only. The information provided is not meant to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any health condition. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a healthcare provider before use of any new product especially if you are using medication, have a pre-existing health condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding.