I’ve been having fun making my own lotions, balms, and salves. Not only are they affordable, but it’s a great way to have natural skin care easily at your fingertips. This dandelion salve is one of my latest creations.
Dandelions boast so many health benefits, it’s a shame that so many people try so hard to get rid of them. The young spring leaves are excellent in salads. You can use the dried and roasted root as an ingredient in coffee. And the buds make sweet wine, jelly, and more.
Although many people use dandelion internally for liver health and its antioxidant effects, you can also use it topically.
Benefits of Dandelion Salve
It’s easy to find many claims when it comes to dandelion salve. And while there isn’t much research to back up those claims, there is plenty of historical use and anecdotal evidence. Here’s what science has to say.
A 2022 study looked at the effects of dandelion essential oil on cancer and tumors. They found that it has powerful antioxidant properties and helped prevent the growth and production of cancer cells. This research was done on cells and lab mice, so more research is needed before coming to a conclusion. However, the volatile oils in dandelion show promise for keeping skin and cells healthy.
Another study looked specifically at dandelion seed oil. They also found that it has antioxidant properties and inhibits the growth of cancerous cells. Antioxidants applied to the skin, such as dandelion salve, have many health benefits, including:
- to help slow aging and cellular damage
- improve hydration
- reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- stimulate collagen
- support skin healing
Traditionally, dandelion salve is used as a mild pain reliever and anti-inflammatory for achy joints and sore muscles.
Some Ingredients to Brag About
Dandelion is good for a lot of things, but there are some really useful ingredients in this salve. I have added shea butter for skin moisturizers and to help thicken the wound. Traditional healers have used shea butter for muscle pain, arthritis, and healthy skin for many years.
Beeswax also helps to thicken the wound and add a protective layer over the skin. It helps skin retain moisture, unclogs pores, and has powerful antioxidant properties to protect skin cells. Researchers note that beeswax is a rich source of protein, minerals and polyphenols.
Essential Oils to Use in Dandelion Salve
Finally, there are essential oils to choose from. This salve works well without them, but they certainly add some powerful healing benefits of their own. You can add muscle essential oils like basil, marjoram, or frankincense. Frankincense is also a powerful skin protectant. Lavender is another favorite for all kinds of skin complaints.
In this collection I used frankincense, turmeric, and spikenard essential oils.
How to Make Dandelion Salve
The first step is to find dandelion flowers. You can find dandelion greens for sale online, but this plant also produces in many backyards. Be sure to harvest in areas that are not sprayed with pesticides and herbicides and not where dogs do their business. Dandelions have long roots that can soak up nutrients… and toxins from the soil.
Many recipes (and this one) use dandelion flowers, but the dandelion leaf has many of the same benefits if it’s all you can get.
Dry the Dandelions
Once you’ve purchased the dandelion flower tops, it’s time to dry them. Some people recommend washing dandelions first, but they tend to shrivel and turn bitter. You can simply lay on a clean towel and check for any bugs, or clean them.
Let them dry on a clean tea towel for a few days until they are wilted and dry. This works best in a warm, sunny area. It is important to dry the flowers to help prevent the oil from condensing in the moisture of the water.
Oiled Dandelion
Once the dandelions are completely dry, it’s time to add them to the oil. Place the dandelion heads in a clean, dry, 1-ounce (or larger) glass jar. Fill the jar about one-third full with dandelions.
Next, pour your liquid oil of choice on top. Olive oil, avocado oil, and sweet almond oil are other good choices. Coconut oil can work if you make sure it stays in a warm place so the coconut oil doesn’t solidify. Make sure the dandelions are covered, secure the lid on the jar, and let it ferment for a few weeks in a sunny place.
Looking for a quick way? Check out my guide on how to infuse herbal oils here, including quick infusions. Once installed, use several layers of cheesecloth to filter the flowers and save the oil. These are the oils you will use in the dandelion salve recipe.
Are you ready to do it? Here is the way!
DIY Dandelion Salve Recipe
This simple salve recipe uses the humble dandelion to soothe sore muscles, sore joints, and protect the skin.
Reveal: 5 ounces
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In a double boiler or glass bowl add the dandelion oil, shea butter, and beeswax. Heat over medium heat and stir occasionally until completely melted.
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Once melted, turn off heat and add essential oils and vitamin E oil if using.
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Immediately pour the mixture into glass jars or cans.
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Place the wound in the refrigerator to chill until firm, about 1 hour.
Store in a cool, dry place. This soap will last for up to a year if stored properly. Discard it if the oil starts to smell or turn red.
Many Salve recipes
Here are some salve recipes I’ve made over the years so you can try your hand at them.
Have you made any DIY recipes with dandelions before? Leave a comment and share below!
