A Balm for Troubled Skin

A woman I care for came to me this spring with troubled hands. The skin along her fingers and arms had become dry, inflamed, and endlessly irritated. She had sought help from doctors and followed every recommendation given to her. Antibiotics brought no relief. Antifungal treatments brought no relief. The irritation remained. When answers are scarce, people often turn to the things they trust.

She turned to me.

I explained what I always explain: herbs are not miracles, and certainty is a luxury seldom afforded to gardeners and healers. Still, there is wisdom in offering comfort while searching for understanding. I began work on a balm.

Nathaniel, naturally, insisted upon experimentation. Six formulations were prepared using varying proportions of coconut oil, castor oil, sweet almond oil, beeswax, and cocoa butter. His goal was to determine which recipe produced the most pleasant texture: firm enough to survive a warm day, yet soft enough to melt upon contact with the skin. While he occupied himself with measurements and notebooks, I turned my attention to the plants.

Plantain has long been regarded as a friend to troubled skin. For generations it has been applied to scratches, bites, irritations, and other minor discomforts. Ginkgo leaf has traditionally been associated with circulation and resilience. Salt, though humble, has been used throughout history as both a preservative and purifier. The oils were infused with these botanicals before the final balm was prepared. As is my custom, I also prepared a small working of intention.

Plantain ashes were added for healing and protection. White sage ashes were added for purification, protection, and the clearing of unwanted influences. Palo santo ashes were added for cleansing and renewal.

Whether one believes these traditions possess power of their own or simply help focus the mind toward healing is a matter each person must decide for themselves.

The balm was completed several days later.

Nathaniel recorded temperatures, ratios, and observations.

I recorded hope; sometimes, that is the best ingredient added to any remedy.