Indian strawberry has been used for centuries as an antiseptic and anticoagulant. [5] X Research source Thyme, eucalyptus, and dandelion are used as cold remedies and may refresh your skin if used in a poultice. [6] X Research source Flaxseed is supposedly good for colds, but there is little evidence that it works. [7] X Research source Other popular options include garlic, mint, yarrow, sage, flannel-bush, gooseberry and pine. [8] X Research source
Honey is one of the few natural ingredients with scientifically proven benefits. It’s great for scrapes, minor wounds, and inflammation. If you do use honey, opt for manuka honey if you can. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Use neem oil if you’re treating a sensitive skin condition or bug bite. [11] X Research source Use water or milk if you only want the herbal properties. These ingredients are safe bets and won’t interact with any of your herbal ingredients. Some people use milk and bread alone to prevent infections, but there’s mixed evidence on whether this works or not. [12] X Research source
How much plant matter you use depends entirely on the size of the area that you’re covering. Generally speaking, you don’t need more than a small handful of herbs to make a decent poultice. If you’re using a plat you cultivated yourself, remove the stems and branches. Only use the leaves or petals (depending on what you’re using).
You can add flour to your mixture if you can’t get the ingredients to form a thick paste. It’s more of an art than science when it comes to mixing a poultice. The goal is to get the right consistency, so don’t worry about adding more herbs to make it thicker or more liquid to make it thinner.
You can use a mixing stick to spread the poultice out if you prefer.
Signs of a forming infection include odd smells, skin discoloration, sore throat, and excess bleeding or draining. Seek emergency medical care if you have a stiff neck, fever, chills, or painful urination. Replace your poultice by making a new mixture every 24 hours.
Tell your doctor why you want to use herbal poultices, as well as what you plan to treat.
Tell your doctor that you’ve used herbal poultices to treat your condition.
Trouble breathing Dizziness Muscle weakness Stiff neck Fever
Additionally, you need to see a doctor if you have a wart on your face or genitals. Don’t try to treat these warts on your own.
Your doctor may be able to advise you on which herbs are safe for use on your skin condition.
