How to Make a Herbal Poultice...and What IS a herbal poultice?
A herbal poultice is:
- A direct paste of crushed herbs.
- Used as a localised treatment for wounds or swelling.
- Is more intensive and direct.
- Best for: Infections, bruises, or skin issues.
Steps to Make a Herbal Poultice
- Choose Your Herbs:
- Common herbs include turmeric (anti-inflammatory), arnica (pain relief), or calendula (healing).
- With Chinese Herbal Medicine topicals, your practitioner will prescribe some raw herbs (or even powders to use).
- Prepare the Paste - FRESH or DRIED herbs:
- Crush FRESH herbs using a mortar and pestle or blend them with a bit of water to form a paste. Just pulse with the blender to macerate and chop the leaves.
- If using DRIED herbs, rehydrate them with warm water before mashing or blending.
- Spread the Poultice:
- Spread the paste directly on the skin or over a thin cloth if the herbs are potent.
- Secure It:
- Use a bandage or muslin wrap to hold the poultice in place.
- Leave on the Area:
- Keep it on for 20-30 minutes. Remove and rinse the area with warm water.
Some common Chinese Herbal poultices include:
Dandelion Poultice for Mastitis
Chrysanthemum and Honeysuckle for redness and swelling.
Hong Hua and Apricot seed to move bruising, poor circulation and pain.
Various Chinese herbs to speed up recovery of connective tissue such as tendons and improve local circulation.
For more information, reach out via the contact page to ask any questions and find out if a topical herbal poultice is appropriate for your condition or injury.
