Pigweed Skin Salve Recipe
Ingredients
>> 2 large handfuls fresh pigweed leaves
>> enough olive oil to cover the pigweed when in a bowl
>> 1 ounce beeswax
>> 1/2 tsp amaranth seed oil (optional)
>> 40 drops lavender essential oil, optional
Instructions
Chop the fresh pigweed and arrange the leaves in a thin layer on a cutting board. Let wilt for 12 to 24 hours.
Once wilted, place the pigweed in a bowl and add enough olive oil to ensure the pigweed is under the oil.
Place the mixture in a blender or food processor. Blend for about 15 seconds, or until the pigweed and olive oil are well-blended.
Place blended mixture in the top pot of a double boiler; the bottom pan should contain about 2" of water.
Bring water to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Make sure the boiling water does not get into the oil mixture. Stir occasionally, and continue heating until the oil is warm to the touch (not hot). Turn off heat and allow mixture to sit for 4 to 8 hours.
Repeat this process (reheating and cooling) several times within a 48 hour period to fully extract the goodness of the pigweed into the oil.
After (about) 48 hours, strain out the plant material through a double layer of cheesecloth. Be sure to squeeze it well to get as much of the oil as possible.
Measure 1 cup of the infused oil. In the event you do not end up with a full cup of oil, add the same olive oil you used to make up the difference.
Using a used, but thoroughly washed tin can, (be sure to bend a pouring lip into it), melt the beeswax. The smaller your pieces of beeswax, the faster they’ll melt.
After the beeswax has liquefied, add the pigweed oil. The beeswax will solidify a little bit when you add the oil. Using a wooden skewer or a craft stick, stir well to combine. Once melted, remove from heat. Add the essential oil, and amaranth seed oil (if using any) and stir.
Immediately pour into tins or glass jars of your choice.
Let the salve cool until it hardens. Label and store in a cool place.
Note: If you want to add an essential oil, research which one is best for your skin type.
Wild Edibles in Recipe: Pigweed
Recipe Category: Personal Care Products
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