Best For

• Applying herbs directly to a specific area of the body
• Localized external support
• Softening, soothing, or drawing support to the skin and tissues
• Using fresh or prepared herbs in a simple topical form
• Short-term, immediate herbal use

Shelf Life

Herbal poultices are best used fresh, right after they are made. They do not store well and should generally be discarded after use.

Basic Herbal Poultice Making Steps

• Choose your herb or herbal blend.
• Use enough to cover the area you want to treat.
• Prepare the herb as needed.
• Fresh herbs can be chopped, crushed, or mashed.
• Dried herbs can be moistened with hot water until soft. If using dried herbs, add a small amount of hot water, usually 1–3 tablespoons at a time, until the mixture becomes damp and spreadable, not runny.
• If using fresh herbs, crush or mash them until they release moisture and form a soft mass.
• Spread the prepared herb in a layer about ¼–½ inch thick on clean cloth, gauze, or directly onto the skin, depending on the herb and intended use.
• Apply the poultice to the desired area.
• Cover with a clean cloth, gauze, or wrap to help hold it in place.
• Leave it on for about 15–30 minutes, or as desired.
• Remove the poultice and discard the used plant material.
• Wash the area gently if needed.

What You Need

• Base Ingredients
  • Fresh herb: enough to cover the area being treated, usually a small handful for a small poultice or Dried herb: usually about ¼–½ cup, softened with enough hot water to make a damp, spreadable mass
  • Hot water: added a little at a time, usually 1–3 tablespoons at a time for dried herbs
  • Optional supporting ingredients: such as clay, flour, or another herb, added in small amounts if the recipe uses them

• Tools & Equipment
  • Bowl or mortar
  • Spoon, pestle, or masher
  • Kettle or hot water source
  • Measuring spoons or cups
  • Clean cloth, gauze, or muslin
  • Scissors, if cutting cloth or wrap

• For Finishing & Storage
  • Clean wrap, bandage, or cloth to hold the poultice in place
  • Towel to protect clothing or bedding if needed
  • Trash or compost for used plant material
  • Poultices are best used fresh and are not usually stored for later use

Storage + Labeling:

Herbal poultices are best made fresh and used right away. They are not usually stored for later use. If a prepared poultice must be held briefly before use, keep it covered and refrigerated, then use it as soon as possible. Label with the herb used and the date made if needed.