Herbal Apothecary 101: Tips for your Herbal Apothecary

(Page 2 of 2)

June/July 2009
By Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox 
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How to Administer a Skin-Patch Test

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People have different sensitivities to plants and oils. If you have very sensitive skin or are taking prescription medication, do a “patch test” for every new essential oil before exposing larger areas of your body to the oil. Mix 3 drops of the essential oil in 1/2 teaspoon carrier oil. Apply this mixture to the pad of a Band-Aid and secure the bandage to the inner part of the forearm. Leave on for 48 hours. If the area shows any irritation under or around the patch, don’t use this essential oil.

Three Essential Oils to Keep on Hand

• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus): antibacterial; mind-clearing; helps with congestion; soothes muscle pain; used in house cleaning
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): antibacterial; relaxing; used in baths; great for headaches and burns; a favorite for aromatherapy
• Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia): antibacterial; antiseptic; antifungal; antiviral; soothes cuts, scrapes, insect bites and wounds

Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox use herbs every day in and around their homes and greenhouses. Some of this article’s information and recipes are from their book The Creative Herbal Home (Herbspirit, 2007). 

Click here for the original article, Herbal Apothecary 101.

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