Beeswax candles are a beautiful, natural alternative to store-bought candles. They burn cleanly, with no toxic fumes, and emit a subtle honey-like fragrance. Plus, they’re easy to make at home! Whether you’re new to candle-making or looking for a fresh recipe, this guide will walk you through the steps to create your own eco-friendly candles.

Why Beeswax?

Beeswax is a natural byproduct of beekeeping, valued for its clean and long-lasting burn. Unlike other candles that may contain synthetic additives, beeswax candles are free from chemicals and burn without producing smoke or soot. They offer a steady, warm glow, making them a great choice for anyone looking to add an eco-friendly, natural touch to their home.

Supplies You’ll Need:

1. Pure beeswax – You can buy beeswax in blocks or pellets.
2. Candle wicks – Look for natural cotton wicks with no metal core, sized appropriately for the diameter of your candle mold.
3. Candle molds or jars – You can use traditional candle molds or recycled glass jars for a rustic look.
4. Double boiler or a heat-safe container and pot – For melting the beeswax.
5. Thermometer – To ensure the wax doesn’t overheat.
6. Wood clothes pins – To hold the wick in place.

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Prepare Your Wick

Start by measuring your wick. It should be long enough to extend from the bottom of the mold or jar to about two inches above the top. Secure it to the bottom of the mold with a bit of beeswax or use a wick holder. Attach the top of the wick to a wood clothes pin, which can be placed across the top of the jar or mold to keep the wick centered.

2. Melt the Beeswax

Using a double boiler, melt the beeswax over low heat. Beeswax melts at around 145°F (63°C), so keep a close eye on the temperature using a thermometer to avoid overheating. If you’re using a makeshift double boiler, place a heat-safe container (like a glass measuring cup) inside a pot of water, making sure the water doesn’t boil over into the glass cup.

3. Pour the Wax

Carefully pour the melted beeswax into your molds or jars, leaving a little space at the top. If your mold or jar is narrow, pour slowly to avoid air bubbles. The wax will begin to harden as it cools, but don’t move the container yet! The most helpful tool in this step is a funnel so you don’t make a huge beeswax mess that is hard to clean.

4. Let It Cool

Allow the candles to cool slowly and naturally at room temperature. Rushing this process can cause cracks in the wax. As the wax cools, it may sink slightly around the wick. If this happens, reheat a small amount of beeswax and pour it on top to fill in the gap.

5. Trim the Wick

Once your candles are fully cooled and hardened, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.

Enjoy Your Handmade Beeswax Candles

Your handmade beeswax candles are now ready to use! Light them up to enjoy their warm natural glow. These candles also make thoughtful gifts, especially when paired with a cozy night-in basket or a self-care kit.

Tips for Success:

• Be patient: Beeswax can take time to melt, and cooling slowly will give you the best results.
• Experiment with molds: Try different molds for varying shapes and sizes. Silicone molds make it easy to pop out your finished candles.
• Use leftover beeswax: Save your wax scraps for future batches. Beeswax is reusable and can be remelted.

Making beeswax candles at home is a rewarding craft that leaves you with a natural, air-purifying candle perfect for cozy evenings. With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can create beautiful, long-burning candles that are free from harmful chemicals and additives. Plus, the natural glow and scent of beeswax will bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any room.

Happy candle making!

Find more DIY recipes here:

Homemade Cough Syrup

Homemade Drawing Salve

Homemade Cough Syrup Using Honey and Onions

When cold and flu season rolls around, finding effective natural remedies for cough relief becomes important for many. One such remedy, used for generations, is a simple yet powerful homemade cough syrup made from honey and onions. While the combination may sound unusual, honey and onions work together to help soothe coughs, ease sore throats, and promote healing naturally. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits of honey and onions, explain how they work, and provide easy instructions to make your own syrup—along with tips for speeding up the process when you need quick relief.

The Benefits of Honey and Onions

Honey is one of the most trusted natural remedies for throat irritation and coughs. It coats the throat, reducing the urge to cough, and offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight infections. Studies have shown that honey can be as effective as some over-the-counter cough suppressants, especially for nighttime relief in children. Additionally, honey is rich in antioxidants, which are vital for supporting the immune system.

Onions are an unexpected but highly effective ingredient for cough relief. Packed with sulfur compounds, onions have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. They help break up mucus, making it easier to expel, and act as a natural expectorant. Onions also contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and boost respiratory health.

Why Opt for a Natural Remedy?

Over-the-counter cough syrups often contain artificial ingredients and chemicals that can cause drowsiness or other side effects. Homemade cough syrup with honey and onions provides a gentle, natural alternative without the unwanted additives. It’s safe for the whole family (though honey should never be given to children under one year old), affordable, and easy to prepare using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

How to Make Honey and Onion Cough Syrup – Two Methods for Quick and Traditional Infusion

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized onion (yellow or white onions work best, you can also use dried onions)
• 1 cup of raw honey

Traditional Infusion Method (With a Quick Twist):

1. Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and slice it thinly to create several layers, which will help the honey extract the beneficial compounds.
2. Layer the Ingredients: In a clean glass jar, begin by placing a few onion slices at the bottom, followed by a generous drizzle of honey. Continue layering onion slices and honey until you’ve used all the onion.
3. Infuse in a Warm Spot: Place the jar in a warm spot for 2-4 hours to allow the onion to release its juices. For faster results, place the jar in your oven with the oven turned off but the light on. The warmth from the light will speed up the infusion process.
4. Strain the Syrup: After the syrup has infused, strain out the onion slices using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Pour the liquid into a clean jar.
5. Storage: Store the syrup in the refrigerator, where it will keep for about a week.

Fast Infusion Method:

If you need the syrup quickly, here’s a faster way to prepare it:

1. After layering the honey and onions in a pot, place the pot on your stove over very low heat for just a few minutes. This gentle heat will help the onion release its beneficial compounds more quickly.
2. Stir occasionally and check that the heat remains low—do not allow the mixture to boil. Once the honey has become infused with the onion, strain out the onion slices and transfer the syrup to a jar.

Dosage:

• Adults: Take 1 tablespoon of the syrup every few hours to relieve cough and soothe the throat.
• Children (over 1 year old): Give 1 teaspoon as needed.

Customizing Your Cough Syrup

You can enhance your honey and onion syrup by adding other healing ingredients:

• Garlic: Crush a few garlic cloves and add them to the mix. Garlic has strong antimicrobial properties and can further boost the immune system.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger slices can be added for their anti-inflammatory and nausea-soothing properties.
• Lemon: Add lemon slices or a splash of lemon juice for extra vitamin C and a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Thyme: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or a teaspoon of dried thyme can be added to support respiratory health and clear mucus.

Why This Combination Works

Honey and onions work together to provide natural relief from coughs and respiratory issues. Honey’s thick, soothing consistency coats the throat, calming irritation and reducing the urge to cough, while onions help to break down and expel mucus. Their combined anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties not only soothe symptoms but support your body’s overall healing process.

This remedy can be used for a variety of cough types—whether dry and irritating or productive and congested. The natural ingredients help tackle both the symptoms and the underlying causes of the cough, without the side effects of artificial cough suppressants.

When to Use Honey and Onion Cough Syrup

This homemade remedy is great for:

• Dry, tickly coughs
• Coughs with mucus and chest congestion
• Sore throats
• Mild cold and flu symptoms

However, if your cough persists for more than a couple of weeks or is accompanied by symptoms like high fever or shortness of breath, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

A Natural Solution for Your Medicine Cabinet

Honey and onion cough syrup is a simple, natural solution that can provide fast relief from coughs and sore throats. With both a quick and traditional infusion method, you can tailor the process to your needs, ensuring you always have an effective remedy on hand when coughs or colds strike.

This remedy is gentle, affordable, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Next time a cough sneaks up on you, skip the chemical-laden cough syrups and try this natural alternative—you might just find it becomes a staple in your medicine cabinet!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re dealing with a mild cold or a persistent cough, homemade honey and onion cough syrup is a gentle, effective, and affordable remedy. The next time you need relief, use the warm spot in your oven or a quick infusion on the stovetop to get your syrup ready faster, and enjoy the soothing benefits of this age-old remedy.

Check out more DIY recipes here:

Magnesium Lotion Recipe

Calendula Oil: DIY Guide

Magnesium lotion is a wonderful addition to your skincare routine. It combines the benefits of magnesium chloride with nourishing ingredients to create a moisturizing, soothing lotion that can help with muscle relaxation, improved sleep, and overall skin health. In this post, I’ll guide you through making your own magnesium lotion at home, using quality ingredients like Nature Packaged cocoa butter and avocado oil.

What is Magnesium Lotion?

Magnesium lotion is a topical solution made by mixing magnesium chloride flakes with water to create a brine, which is then combined with oils and butters to form a lotion. This allows for easy and effective absorption of magnesium through the skin.

Why Use Magnesium Lotion?

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Many people are deficient in magnesium due to poor dietary intake, stress, and other factors. Topical application of magnesium is a convenient way to boost your levels, potentially helping with issues like muscle cramps, insomnia, and skin inflammation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Magnesium Brine:
• 1/2 cup magnesium chloride flakes
• 1/2 cup distilled water
• Lotion Base:
• 1/4 cup Nature Packaged cocoa butter
• 1/4 cup Nature Packaged avocado oil
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• Essential oils of your choice (optional, for fragrance)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A double boiler or a heatproof bowl and a pot
• A hand mixer or a whisk
• A glass jar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Magnesium Brine

In a small bowl, combine the magnesium chloride flakes and HOT distilled water. Stir until the flakes are completely dissolved, creating a magnesium brine. Set this aside to cool to room temperature.

2. Melt the Oils and Butters

Using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the Nature Packaged cocoa butter, beeswax, and avocado oil together. Stir occasionally until fully melted and combined.

3. Combine the Mixtures

Once the oil mixture is melted, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly, but not too much, as it should still be in a liquid state. Slowly add the magnesium brine to the oil mixture, whisking continuously to ensure proper emulsification.

4. Blend the Lotion

Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend the mixture until it reaches a creamy, lotion-like consistency. This might take a few minutes. If desired, add a few drops of your chosen essential oils during this step.

5. Store the Lotion

Transfer the finished lotion into a clean glass jar. Allow it to cool completely before sealing. Store your magnesium lotion in a cool, dry place. It should last for several months.

About Nature Packaged

Nature Packaged is a company dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainably sourced skincare ingredients. Their products are made with the utmost care, ensuring that they are free from harmful chemicals and sourced ethically. Nature Packaged cocoa butter and avocado oil are renowned for their purity and effectiveness, making them excellent choices for DIY skincare projects.

Nature Packaged Cocoa Butter

This cocoa butter is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, offering deep moisturizing properties and a luxurious feel. It helps to improve skin elasticity and provides a protective barrier against environmental stressors.

Nature Packaged Avocado Oil

Cold-pressed and unrefined, Nature Packaged avocado oil is packed with vitamins A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids. It absorbs easily into the skin, providing intense hydration and nourishment without leaving a greasy residue.

Benefits of Using Magnesium Lotion

Regular use of magnesium lotion can help with:

• Muscle Relaxation: Ideal for post-workout recovery or easing muscle cramps.
• Improved Sleep: Magnesium has calming properties that can promote better sleep quality.
• Skin Health: The combined ingredients provide moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits, improving overall skin texture and appearance.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own magnesium lotion at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to control the quality of the ingredients used. By incorporating Nature Packaged cocoa butter and avocado oil, you ensure that your lotion is both nourishing and beneficial for your skin. Enjoy the process of making your own skincare products and reap the rewards of healthier, more relaxed skin.

Find More DIY Recipes Here:

Calendula Oil: DIY Guide

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Thank you to Nature Packaged for sponsoring this blog post. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue creating content like this. Thank you for your support!

How to Make and Use Calendula Oil: A Comprehensive Guide

Calendula oil, derived from the vibrant calendula flower (Calendula officinalis), has been treasured for centuries for its healing properties. Known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial benefits, calendula oil is a versatile addition to any natural health toolkit. Whether you’re looking to soothe skin irritations, promote wound healing, or simply nourish your skin, making your own calendula oil at home can be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make calendula oil and explore the many ways you can use it.

The Benefits of Calendula Oil

Before diving into the process of making calendula oil, it’s important to understand why this oil is so valued. The calendula flower is packed with potent compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and carotenoids, which contribute to its therapeutic effects:

1. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and soothes irritation.
2. Antimicrobial: Helps prevent infections.
3. Wound Healing: Promotes tissue regeneration and speeds up healing.
4. Skin Health: Moisturizes and improves skin elasticity.

How to Make Calendula Oil

Making calendula oil at home is a straightforward process that requires a few basic ingredients and some patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients and Supplies:

• Dried calendula flowers
• Avocado Oil (I like this one, Use code NATURALROOTEDHOME15 for 15% off)
• A clean, dry glass jar with a lid
• Fine mesh strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Gathering and Drying Calendula Flowers: If you’re growing calendula in your garden, harvest the flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated. Spread the flowers out on a clean, dry surface in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Allow them to dry completely, which can take several days. Alternatively, you can purchase dried calendula flowers from a reputable supplier.
2. Choosing a Carrier Oil: Select a high-quality carrier oil based on your skin type and preferences. Choosing avocado oil from Nature Packaged (use code NATURALROOTEDHOME15 for 15% off your order) offers several advantages. The company guarantees premium quality through rigorous third-party testing, ensuring purity and freshness. They source directly from global partner farms, promoting transparency and ethical practices. By buying from Nature Packaged, you support fair compensation for farmers and sustainable agriculture. Additionally, their avocado oil is versatile and packed with health benefits, making it a great choice for both culinary and skincare uses. For more details, visit their website.
3. Infusing the Oil: Place the dried calendula flowers in the glass jar, filling it about halfway. Pour the carrier oil over the flowers, ensuring they are completely submerged. Seal the jar tightly with the lid.
4. Infusion Process:

• Solar Infusion: Place the jar in a sunny spot and let it infuse for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days to mix the contents.
• Heat Infusion: For a quicker method, place the sealed jar in a warm water bath over low heat for several hours. Ensure the temperature stays below 120°F (49°C) to preserve the oil’s beneficial properties.

1. Straining the Oil: After the infusion period, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean container. Squeeze the flowers to extract as much oil as possible.
2. Storing the Oil: Transfer the strained oil into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light, which can degrade its quality. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, calendula oil can last for up to a year.

Uses of Calendula Oil

Now that you have your homemade calendula oil, let’s explore the myriad ways you can incorporate it into your daily routine:

1. Skincare:

• Moisturizer: Apply a few drops of calendula oil to your face or body as a natural moisturizer. It’s especially beneficial for dry or sensitive skin.
• Acne Treatment: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, calendula oil can help reduce acne and prevent future breakouts.
• Anti-Aging: Use calendula oil to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Its antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress.

2. Healing Minor Wounds and Burns:

• Apply calendula oil directly to cuts, scrapes, and minor burns to promote healing and prevent infection. Its soothing properties can also reduce pain and inflammation.

3. Treating Skin Conditions:

• Eczema and Psoriasis: Regular application of calendula oil can alleviate the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis, reducing redness, itching, and discomfort.
• Rashes: Use calendula oil to soothe and heal rashes, including diaper rash in infants.

4. Hair Care:

• Scalp Health: Massage calendula oil into your scalp to nourish and soothe dry, flaky skin. Its antifungal properties can help treat dandruff.
• Hair Growth: Regular scalp massages with calendula oil can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.

5. Massage Oil:

• Calendula oil makes an excellent base for massage oil blends. Combine it with essential oils like lavender or chamomile for a relaxing and therapeutic massage experience.

6. Lip Care:

• Apply a small amount of calendula oil to dry, chapped lips for instant relief and hydration.

7. Baby Care:

• Calendula oil is gentle enough for use on babies. Use it to treat diaper rash, cradle cap, and other minor skin irritations.

8. Aromatherapy:

• Add a few drops of calendula oil to your bathwater for a calming and skin-nourishing soak. You can also use it in homemade candles or diffusers for a soothing aroma.

Creating and using calendula oil is a wonderful way to harness the power of nature for your health and wellness. By following the steps outlined above, you can make your own high-quality calendula oil at home and enjoy its many benefits. Whether you’re using it to soothe skin irritations, promote healing, or simply pamper your skin, calendula oil is a versatile and valuable addition to your natural remedy repertoire. Embrace the healing power of calendula and experience the difference it can make in your life.

Check out these recipes using calendula oil:

• Homemade Drawing Salve

• Calendula Salve

this post may contain affiliate links.

In a world where convenience often trumps tradition, there’s a growing appreciation for old-fashioned homemaking skills. These timeless abilities not only provide self-sufficiency but also bring a deeper connection to our homes and the food we eat. Here are six essential old-fashioned homemaking skills every wife should learn.

1. Cooking from Scratch

Cooking from scratch is the cornerstone of old-fashioned homemaking. It involves preparing meals using basic, whole ingredients rather than relying on pre-packaged or processed foods. Not only does this ensure healthier, more nutritious meals, but it also allows for greater control over what goes into your food.

Why Learn It?

• Health Benefits: Fewer preservatives and additives.
• Cost-Effective: Bulk ingredients can be cheaper than pre-packaged meals.
• Skill Development: Enhances cooking skills and knowledge of ingredients.
• Homemade Snacks: Instead of buying snacks for your kids, make them at home. Snacks like homemade cheese crackers, fresh seasonal fruit treats, homemade yogurt in the Instant Pot, and even aged cheese and salami are all affordable and easy to make for kids of all ages. These homemade options are healthier, more economical, and often tastier.

Getting Started:

• Learn Basic Techniques: Start with fundamental cooking methods like roasting, boiling, and sautéing.
• Stock a Pantry: Keep essential staples like flour, sugar, spices, and oils.
• Experiment with Recipes: Gradually try more complex dishes as your confidence grows.

Check out These From-Scratch Recipes for Inspiration:

Overnight Sourdough Biscuits without Baking Powder

Same-Day Sourdough Bread

2. Making Household Cleaners, Skincare, and Herbal Medicine from Scratch

In addition to raising chickens, mastering the art of making household cleaners, skincare products, and herbal medicine from scratch is a hallmark of old-fashioned homemaking. These skills not only contribute to a healthier home environment but also reduce dependency on commercial products filled with chemicals. Here’s why and how to delve into these practices:

Why Learn It?

• Health and Environmental Benefits: Homemade cleaners and skincare products often contain fewer harmful chemicals, promoting a safer home environment.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Making your own cleaners, skincare, and herbal remedies can save money compared to buying commercial products of the same quality.
• Personalization: You can tailor products to suit your family’s specific needs and preferences.
• Sustainability: Reduce plastic waste and support sustainable practices by using reusable containers and locally sourced ingredients.

Getting Started:

• Household Cleaners: Create non-toxic cleaners using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. For example, vinegar diluted with water and infused with citrus peels makes a versatile all-purpose cleaner. (Find my recipe HERE).
• Skincare Products: Experiment with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils to craft moisturizers, lip balms, and facial cleansers. These can be customized based on skin type and preferences.
• Herbal Medicine: Learn to make herbal tinctures, teas, and salves using medicinal herbs. Purchase herbs in bulk online or grow them in your garden for a sustainable supply.

Tips for Success:

• Research and Experiment: Start with simple recipes and gradually expand your skills. There are plenty of resources online and in books to guide you.
• Safety First: Always research the safety and proper usage of herbs and ingredients before making herbal remedies.

Mastering the art of making household cleaners, skincare products, and herbal medicine from scratch adds a new dimension to old-fashioned homemaking. These skills not only empower you to create a healthier and more sustainable home but also connect you more deeply with traditional practices that have stood the test of time. Enjoy the journey of discovery and the satisfaction of creating personalized, homemade items for your family’s well-being.

3. Raising Chickens

Raising chickens is a rewarding and practical skill that provides fresh eggs and, if desired, meat. It’s a step towards self-sufficiency and a great way to understand where your food comes from.

Why Learn It?

• Fresh Eggs: Home-raised eggs are often tastier and more nutritious.
• Pest Control: Chickens help control insects in your garden.
• Educational: Teaches responsibility and animal care.

Getting Started:

• Research Breeds: Choose breeds that are suited to your climate and needs.
• Build a Coop: Ensure you have a secure and comfortable living space for your chickens.
• Learn Chicken Care: Understand their feeding, health care, and general maintenance.
• Feed Efficiently: Instead of buying chicken feed, let your chickens free range 100%. Supplement their diet with kitchen scraps and, if needed, fermented lentils. This approach not only saves money but also makes your eggs essentially free.
• Find Affordable Coops: Look for cheap or free used coops on Facebook Marketplace or other local classifieds. Many people sell or give away coops when they no longer keep chickens, providing an economical way to start your flock.

4. Growing a Garden

Gardening is both an art and a science. Growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs not only provides fresh produce but also a therapeutic hobby that connects you to nature.

Why Learn It?

• Fresh Produce: Enjoy homegrown, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables.
• Cost Savings: Reduces grocery bills.
• Sustainability: Promotes self-reliance and reduces carbon footprint.

Getting Started:

• Start Seeds Indoors: Begin your plants from seeds indoors to extend your growing season. This allows you to get a head start on your garden and transplant strong seedlings when the weather warms up.
• Test Soil Quality: Conduct soil tests through your local university extension office to understand your soil’s health and nutrient needs. This ensures your garden is set up for optimal growth.
• Invest in Fruit Trees: Buy fruit trees whenever you can afford them. They take years to produce, so the sooner you plant them, the sooner you’ll reap the benefits.
• Plant Berries: Purchase raspberry and blueberry plants, as they will produce within a year, offering a quicker return on your investment.

Tools to Get Started:

• Basic Tools: Invest in a good-quality shovel, trowel, rake, and hoe.
• Watering Equipment: Get a reliable hose, watering can, and drip irrigation system if possible.
• Seed Starting Supplies: Use seed trays, pots, and a grow light for starting seeds indoors.
• Composting: Start a compost bin to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden, closing the loop in a sustainable cycle.

5. Canning and Preserving

Canning and preserving are time-honored methods of extending the life of your garden produce. These skills ensure you can enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the year, even when certain foods are out of season.

Why Learn It?

• Reduce Waste: Preserve excess produce rather than letting it go to waste.
• Save Money: Store-bought preserves can be expensive.
• Control Ingredients: Avoid additives and preservatives found in commercial products.
• Dehydrating: Invest in a dehydrator for around $100. Dehydrating fruits, vegetables, and herbs makes them shelf-stable and extends their usability.

Getting Started:

• Gather Supplies: Invest in jars, lids, and a large pot or pressure canner.
• Learn Methods: Understand the difference between water bath canning (for high-acid foods) and pressure canning (for low-acid foods). Learn dehydrating techniques for various types of produce.
• Follow Recipes: Start with simple recipes like jams, pickles, and tomato sauce. Dehydrate easy items like apples, tomatoes, and herbs.
• Supplement Your Garden: If your garden doesn’t produce enough, buy cheap produce from local Amish and Mennonite stores. Their high-quality, affordable produce can be preserved for year-round use.

6. Stretching Your Grocery Budget During Hard Times

The ability to stretch your grocery bill is an invaluable skill, especially during tough economic times. This involves smart shopping, meal planning, reducing waste, and even foraging to make the most of every dollar spent.

Why Learn It?

• Financial Savings: Helps manage tight budgets effectively.
• Resourcefulness: Encourages creative cooking and minimal waste.
• Preparedness: Builds resilience against economic fluctuations.

Getting Started:

• Plan Meals: Create weekly meal plans based on sales and seasonal produce.
• Buy in Bulk: Purchase non-perishable items in bulk to save money.
• Reduce Food Waste: Implement strategies to ensure every bit of food is used efficiently.
• Foraging: Learn to identify and responsibly gather wild edible plants and mushrooms in your area. This can supplement your meals with nutritious additions at little to no cost.

Foraging Tips:

• Research and Safety: Educate yourself on local edible plants and mushrooms. Use reliable field guides or join local foraging groups to learn from experienced foragers.
• Start Small: Begin with easily recognizable plants like dandelion greens, wild berries, or common mushrooms such as morels (if available in your area).
• Responsible Foraging: Always forage responsibly, respecting local regulations and ecosystems. Never over-harvest and be cautious of poisonous look-alikes.
• Incorporate Into Cooking: Incorporate foraged foods into your meals. For example, use wild greens in salads or stir-fries, or incorporate wild berries into desserts or preserves.

Embracing Old-Fashioned Homemaking Skills

Learning and mastering these old-fashioned homemaking skills not only empowers you but also brings a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Whether you’re cooking a meal from scratch, collecting fresh eggs, harvesting garden produce, making homemade cleaners and skincare products, foraging, preserving your bounty, or stretching your grocery budget, these skills contribute to a fulfilling and self-sufficient lifestyle. Embrace the journey and enjoy the many benefits that come with these timeless practices.

Exploring Homemade Drawing Salve Recipe: History, Uses, and Benefits

Draw Salve, a traditional remedy cherished for its healing properties, has a rich history rooted in natural medicine practices. This potent ointment, known for its ability to draw out impurities and promote healing, has gained popularity beyond its origins, becoming a staple in many households. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history, ingredients, uses, and benefits of Draw Salve, exploring why this natural remedy has stood the test of time.

The History of Draw Salve

The community, known for its simple, self-sufficient lifestyle, has long relied on natural remedies for treating common ailments. Draw salve, sometimes referred to as “black salve,” has been a part of folk medicine for generations. Traditionally, it was used to treat infections, boils, splinters, and other skin irritations. The salve’s formulation, passed down through families, combines natural ingredients believed to have medicinal properties.

Ingredients and Preparation

Draw Salve is typically made from a blend of herbal ingredients and natural oils. A common modern recipe includes:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil: Provides a moisturizing base and has antibacterial properties.
• 1/4 cup calendula oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, calendula oil helps soothe irritated skin.
• 1 teaspoon activated charcoal: Known for its ability to absorb toxins, activated charcoal helps to draw out impurities from the skin.
• 1 teaspoon bentonite clay: Works alongside activated charcoal to draw out impurities and soothe the skin.
• 2 tablespoons beeswax: Acts as a natural emollient and thickening agent, giving the salve its smooth texture and creating a protective barrier on the skin.
• 10 drops tea tree oil: Adds antimicrobial benefits and aids in treating infections.

The preparation of Draw Salve involves heating the oils and beeswax, then adding the activated charcoal and bentonite clay. Once these are well-mixed, the essential oils are added. The mixture is then cooled and poured into containers for storage and use.

Uses of Draw Salve

Draw Salve is versatile and can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Here are some common uses:

1. Boils and Abscesses: The salve helps to draw out pus and reduce inflammation, speeding up the healing process.
2. Splinters and Thorns: Applying the salve to the affected area can help to draw out foreign objects, making it easier to remove splinters or thorns.
3. Insect Bites and Stings: The anti-inflammatory properties of the salve can reduce swelling and alleviate pain caused by insect bites and stings.
4. Cuts and Wounds: The antimicrobial ingredients help to prevent infection and promote faster healing of minor cuts and wounds.
5. Skin Infections: The salve’s ability to draw out impurities makes it effective for treating various skin infections, such as cellulitis and infected cuts.

Benefits of Draw Salve

The benefits of using Draw Salve extend beyond its ability to treat specific conditions. Here are some reasons why this traditional remedy is still popular today:

• Natural and Safe: Unlike some over-the-counter treatments that contain synthetic chemicals, Draw Salve is made from natural ingredients, making it a safer option for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
• Effective: The combination of activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and herbal extracts makes the salve highly effective at drawing out impurities and promoting healing.
• Cost-Effective: Making your own draw salve at home can be more affordable than purchasing commercial products, and the ingredients are readily available.
• Multi-Purpose: The salve’s versatility means it can be used for a wide range of skin conditions, reducing the need for multiple products.
• Traditional Wisdom: Using Draw Salve connects you to a long tradition of natural healing, embracing time-tested remedies that have been used for generations.

How to Use Draw Salve

To use Draw Salve, follow these simple steps:

1. Clean the Area: Gently clean the affected area with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Apply the Salve: Using a clean finger or a cotton swab, apply a small amount of salve directly to the affected area.
3. Cover with a Bandage: Cover the area with a bandage or gauze to keep the salve in place and protect the area from further contamination.
4. Reapply as Needed: Reapply the salve every 12 hours or as needed until the condition improves. For splinters or thorns, continue application until the object is drawn out.

Precautions and Considerations

While Draw Salve is generally safe for most people, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergic Reactions: Test the salve on a small area of skin before using it extensively to ensure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
• Not for Deep Wounds: Avoid using the salve on deep wounds or severe infections without consulting a healthcare professional.
• Pregnancy and Nursing: If you are pregnant or nursing, consult with a healthcare provider before using the salve, especially if it contains essential oils.

Making Your Own Draw Salve

If you’re interested in making your own Draw Salve, here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup calendula oil
• 1 teaspoon activated charcoal
• 1 teaspoon bentonite clay
• 2 tablespoons beeswax
• 10 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and coconut oil together over low heat.
2. Once melted, stir in the activated charcoal and bentonite clay.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding the tea tree oil.
4. Pour the mixture into small jars or tins and let it solidify at room temperature.
5. Store in a cool, dark place and use as needed.

Draw Salve is a powerful, natural remedy with a rich history of use. Its effectiveness in drawing out impurities, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing makes it a valuable addition to any home first aid kit. Whether you choose to make your own or purchase a pre-made version, this traditional salve offers a natural and effective solution for a variety of skin conditions.

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