Understanding Herbal Preparations- Liniment
Posted by TriLight Health on Jul 15th 2022
Summertime often brings an increase our activity levels. While this, obviously, means healthier minds and bodies- it can also mean sore muscles and joints. Herbalists have traditionally used liniments for pain throughout the centuries. They are one of the easiest herbal preparations to make and use.
What is an herbal liniment?
An herbal liniment is a liquid preparation similar to a tincture or an infused oil. The main difference is a liniment is only used topically. They can be made out of a variety of substances vs a tincture which is only made with glycerine or alcohol.
How is it used?
The final product is applied topically. Most often these are used for pain relief. They are usually sprayed on the skin or placed in a dropper bottle and gently rubbed in. Liniments should never be used on broken or wounded skin.
How is it made?
The process is similar to a tincture. Make sure to look into the specific ratios for the herb(s) and liquid of choice.
- Place herbs of choice in a sanitized jar.
- Cover with liquid of choice (oil, alcohol, or witch hazel)
- Put a lid on the jar and move it to a warm place.
- Shake daily (or as often as you think of it)
- Steep a minimum of 4 weeks, 8 weeks if best if you can wait that long
- Strain the herbs and place in a glass container- spray bottles make for easy application
Make sure to label the bottle clearly “for external use only”
What herbs are commonly used?
Pain-relieving herbs are usually used. These include:
Note- Many people also add in menthol crystals and/or mint essential oils
Learn More:
Understanding Herbal Preparations- Infused Oil
FAQ- How Do I Use Soothing Salve?
Understanding Herbal Preparations: Salve
