Herbs have been used for treating minor aliments for many years. Usually this is taken in the form of a herbal tea, but this article concentrates on those plants that can be used to make an ointment. These are mainly used for treating minor skin problems as well as sprains and strains. This article by Tricia Drevets which I found on Dave’s Garden website describes the ten plants and includes instructions on how to make the ointment.

Treat all kinds of minor skin wounds and irritations with just a few plants you can cultivate on your own!

We grow plants for many reasons ? for food, for flavoring, for insect protection, and for the beauty they provide. Certain garden plants also have been used for medicinal purposes for many centuries, but did you know you could also make your own balms and ointments with some of them?
Herbs and plants are an important ingredient of many beauty products, so it should come to no surprise that you can use your own garden to create many homemade products. Not only will you save money, but you also will have the satisfaction of using what you grow to benefit your family?s health and well-being.
Here are 10 plants to get you started!

Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller)

Aloe vera grows wild in tropical locations around the world, but it also does well as an indoor potted plant. The gel inside this easy-to-grow succulent has been used for centuries to treat burns, eczema, and other skin irritations. In fact, Ancient Egyptian pharaohs were often entombed with aloe vera, which was known as the “plant of immortality.”

Arnica (Arnica Montana)

Arnica, a daisy-like herb, provides relief for sore muscles and reduces inflammation and pain caused by sprains and strains.

Go to the next page to see more common garden plants that can be used for making balms and ointments.
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