Preparation

Herbal Salves & Balms — What They Are and How to Make One

The base technique underneath the Mullein Chest Rub and every other salve in this section — a real ratio for when you want a repeatable texture, plus the looser beginner method for when you just want to see it work once.

Contraindications — Read Before Using

Comfrey — external use only, never on broken skin — do not ignore: Comfrey is correctly marked externally-only in the source, but that caution needs to be specific: comfrey's pyrrolizidine alkaloids absorb at meaningfully higher rates through broken or damaged skin. Fine in a salve for intact, healthy skin; never for cuts, wounds, or burns. Same caution already applied in full on the Treating First-Degree Burns card.
St. John's Wort — photosensitivity: Listed as a common salve herb in the source with no caution attached. Topical St. John's Wort can increase skin photosensitivity, especially in fair-skinned individuals — sun exposure over a treated area can cause a stronger burn than expected. Not disclosed in the source.
External use only, patch test first: Not for internal use, eyes, or mucous membranes. Patch test a small area before full use, and discontinue if irritation develops. Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while on medication, since some infused herbs (comfrey, St. John's Wort) carry real interaction or absorption profiles even applied topically.

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