Using Pine Resin to Make Salves

Pine trees produce resin for the purpose of defense. Resin acts as a protective agent to seal exterior tree wounds. This creates a barrier that protects the wound from bacterial infections, fungal infections, and pest infestations. Pine resin is a wonderful built-in protector for pine trees, making it no surprise that it renders several additional benefits too, but not for trees; for us!

Lotion, ointments, creams, balms, and more, can all be made using the resin produced from the pine trees in our own backyards. Pine resin is an oleoresin, meaning it contains oil. This makes it softer and easier to manipulate. You might be thinking that resin is too messy to work with, but as an oil-soluble and alcohol-soluble mastic, it can be easily removed from fingers and clothes with either oil or alcohol. This attribute is what makes pine resin the perfect ingredient to an oil-based salve.

Continue reading to learn how to make pine resin salve, including what you’ll need and where to get started!

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Gather Your Supplies:

Double Boiler
Pine Resin
Natural Oil of Choice
Grated Beeswax
Coffee Filter or Fine Mesh Strainer
Metal Tins or Glass Jars

Special Notes:

When choosing an oil to use for your salve, you can go with almost any natural or organic product, including olive, almond, coconut, plantain, Calendula, comfrey, or even yarrow. The latter choices contain antimicrobial herbs that are great for healing if you are making a lotion or lip balm!

You have the option of using a fine mesh strainer for the last portion of the process, but keep in mind that you will need to scrub it well when you are done. If you want to cut out some cleaning, just use coffee filters to strain your concoction.

Large pieces of pine resin will take a lot longer to melt. To avoid this problem, freeze your resin in a plastic baggie first, and then hit it with a hammer to form crumbles and smaller pieces. These will melt much quicker, saving you both time and frustration.

Now Just Get Started:

Pour oil into your double boiler and bring it to a simmer.

Add your pine resin. Cook on low heat until the resin is fully melted.

Strain the mixture, either through a fine mesh metal strainer or coffee filter.

Return the mixture to the double boiler. Add your grated beeswax. You may need to grate the beeswax yourself. Just use a regular cheese grater.

Cook on low heat until the mixture is fully melted.

Pour the mixture into individual metal tins or glass jars. Store them in a cool, dry place for best results.

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Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

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