How To Make Dandelion Salve (Easiet Recipe)

Dandelion salve is a simple herbal remedy to make that is packed with health benefits. This healing salve uses only simple ingredients and can soothe sore muscles, moisturise dry skin, and help relieve mild skin irritations. 

I’ve raved about dandelions many times before – while some consider them to be a pesky weed, they are hugely nutritional! You can use the leaves, stems, flowers, and even roots to make nutrient-dense tinctures, teas, and salves. So next time instead of mowing down the dandelions in your yard, put them to good use!

Benefits of dandelion and dandelion salve

Anti-inflammatory properties – Dandelions contain compounds that help reduce swelling and calm irritation, making them great for helping with conditions like eczema or minor cuts.

Packed with antioxidants – Antioxidants help combat free radicals which can slow the signs of aging and help with skin repair.

Astringent qualities – Dandelions are good for skin conditions like acne because they have properties that can tighten and tone the skin.

Foraging tips for dandelions

When foraging for fresh dandelions, the best way is to harvest them in early spring when they are just coming out. Look for plants in your own yard or a location that you know is free from toxic pesticides. You can forage and use the entire plant, including the roots.

Harvest the flower tops in mid-morning when they’re fully open and dry from the dew to maximise the amount of volatile oils in the flower.

To make this salve, it’s best to use dried plant material. Lay your flowers out in a place with good airflow for a few weeks to dry them before making this salve.

Why use dried herbs?

While you can use fresh dandelion flowers, dried ones are much better for salve-making. The amount of moisture in fresh herbs can cause the oil to go rancid during the oil-infusing process.

To dry dandelions, spread them in a single layer on paper towels in a well-ventilated area. I like to leave mine dry for a few weeks – sometimes it can take a bit longer due to the high water content in flowers.

Benefits of dandelion salve

Relief for sore muscles – Apply the salve after a workout or strenuous activity.

Moisturises dry skin – Coconut oil and/or shea butter makes this salve super nourishing.

Heals minor skin irritations – Can be used on bug bites, minor burns, and small cuts.

Lots of uses – This salve doubles as a lip balm, cuticle cream, and generally soothing ointment.

What type of carrier oil is best for infusion?

It depends on what you’re looking for.. Here are some good options:

Olive oil

• Easy to find and high vitamin E
• Great for dry or sensitive skin as it’s nourishing and deeply hydrating
• Creates a slightly thicker salve

Coconut oil

• Packed with antimicrobial properties and great for minor skin irritations
• Solid at room temperature, which helps thicken the salve
• Not the best choice for very oily or acne-prone skin

Sweet almond oil

• Lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin
• Rich in vitamin E, making it great for anti-aging

Jojoba oil

• Mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it a good choice for all skin types
• Non-greasy and great for acne-prone or oily skin

Sunflower oil

• Lightweight and packed with vitamins A, D, and E
• Affordable and widely available

Homemade dandelion salve recipe

Tools

Double boiler – If you don’t have one just use a small saucepan with a glass bowl on top. 

Glass mason pint jar with lid – I use these

Glass jar for storage – I use these amber glass jars

Cheesecloth or a mesh strainer

Small whisk

Ingredients

Dandelions – Here’s a source for bulk dried dandelion root

Carrier oil of your choice – I like to use jojoba oil, olive oil, or coconut oil (fractionated coconut oil also works).

Organic beeswax pellets – Here’s a source for unbleached beeswax

Shea butter – Here’s a bulk, raw source

Optional – A few drops of lavender or another essential oil of your choice

How to make dandelion salve

Step 1: Make dandelion-infused oil

The first step is to infuse your oil. You can use a quick or slow infusion method.

Fill a clean glass jar with dried dandelion heads – you can also use the leaves and roots if you want.

Cover the plant material with your carrier oil until everything is submerged. 

Add a lid to the jar and place it in a sunny windowsill for a solar infusion. Leave it for 4-6 weeks.

Alternatively, for a quick infusion, gently warm the jar in a makeshift double boiler for 2-3 hours. I just add a glass jar to a small saucepan! Avoid boiling the oil to preserve the medicinal properties in the dandelions.

After 6 weeks (or 3 hours if you’re using the stovetop method), strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove any excess moisture or plant bits.

Step 2: Melt beeswax and mix the salve

Add beeswax to the small saucepan and heat it over a low simmer until melted.

Stir in the dandelion-infused oil and shea butter until fully combined.

You can also add a few drops of lavender oil for the scent.

Step 3: Pour and set

Pour the mixture into small jars.

Allow the salve to cool and harden at room temperature before adding a lid. That’s it!

How much salve to use?

Use a small amount of salve and rub it onto affected areas. It’s great for sore muscles, itchy skin, and dry skin.

How long does dandelion salve last?

If stored in a cool, dark place, your salve will last up to a couple years. Adding vitamin E oil can help extend the shelf life of the oil.

How can I tell if my salve has gone bad?

While dandelion salve has a long shelf life when stored correctly, it can go bad over time. Here are some signs your salve is no longer usable:

Rancid Smell

The most noticeable sign of spoiled salve is a strong, unpleasant odor.

Texture Changes

If the salve becomes grainy, excessively sticky, or separates into layers, it may have gone bad.

Mould or Growth

Visible mould or bacterial growth is a definite sign the salve should be discarded.

How to make it last longer

• Store in a dark place away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Use glass jars or amber-colored containers to protect the salve from light exposure.
• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil when making it because it helps to make the salve last longer.
• Always use clean, dry hands or a spoon to scoop out the salve to avoid introducing bacteria or moisture.

Disclaimer – I’m not a medical professional and do not intend to offer medical or health advice in any content I create. I offer information for educational purposes and, as always, get your physician’s advice or the advice of your health care provider before trying a new herbal remedy. There are always possible unintended consequences of trying a new herbal remedy such as an allergic reaction or unexpected side effects like interactions with other medication. 

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