Cottonwood Buds have been made into a sweet smelling salve for centuries to treat a variety of skin ailments from cuts to minor bruises and burns and to ease pain. The salve is referred to as the Balm of Gilead, as referred as in the Bible which means Balm of God. It’s bright aromatherapeutic scent is it’s most memorable characteristic and its powerful medicinal properties are it’s strongest. The buds have antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, analgesic, anti inflammatory properties that aid with healing 1st aid bruises, cuts and burns. A compound called salicin reduces fevers and inflammation from arthritic joints,, hyperextension as well as ease the pain. It is specific for the muscular-skeletal system and an analgesic and anti-inflammatory herbal oil. Active Components: a volatile humulene oil,Balsamic resin; gallic acid, malic acid, salicin, populin, mannitol, chrysin, fixed oil, tectochrysin, arachidonic, trichocarpin, and bisopolol.
Calendula flowers are native to Southern Europe but have been cultivated nearly everywhere in the world now. The plant has been used medicinally for centuries to support the immune system, heal wounds, burns and rashes internally and externally. The flower petals are both edible and medicinal and can be eaten in salads, salsas, scrambles or infused into water, oil, honey ect. The flowers are used to prevent muscle spasms, start menstrual periods, reduce menstrual cramps and reduce fever, protect you internal and external body from bacteria and other skin irritations while reducing the pain as well. Some more serious uses have been to treat cancer, severe stomach and duodenal ulcers, smallpox, measles and jaundice. The plant is high in beta carotene which activates antioxidant effects. Actions are vulnerary promoting healing of damaged tissue, antifungal and antibacterial, anti inflammatory to the skin and mucosa, Lymphagogue (moving lymphs), emmenagogue (stimulating menstrual flow) and cholagogue(stimulates bile). Active: Principal identified constituents are triterpenoids and flavonoids that have anti inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiprotozoal, antispasmodic and spasmogenic, antiviral, hypoglycemic and wound healing effects as well as antifungal properties. The fatty acids include linoleic and linolenic acid to help keep your cells walls strong and from losing any water, keeping your skin hydrated and preventing bacteria from invading the skin. These fatty acids and antioxidants are integral for tissue and cell regeneration in the skin reducing scars and fine lines from aging. The skin also easily absorbs the oil, allowing its antioxidants to travel deep into the skins layers. It has natural exfoliation helping your skin to glow vibrantly. Its helps boost collagen aiding in skin elasticity and firmness with its high content of vitamins A and C, which are both necessary for the production of collagen. The oil aids inflammation with its high content of Vitamin E. and calms irritation resulting from rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. Vitamins A,C, & E are antioxidants that combat against sun damage and prevent photoaging