Black Kettle Salve - clay and charcoal drawing

Black Kettle Drawing Salve

An old-fashioned drawing salve for the home apothecary.

Black Kettle is a rich, traditional drawing salve made with slowly infused plantain, comfrey, and yarrow alongside activated charcoal and mineral-rich bentonite clay.

At the heart of this formula is plantain, an herb with a long history of traditional topical use for irritated skin, bug bites and stings, and the everyday skin mishaps that come with life outdoors. Herbalists have traditionally used plantain in poultices and salves as a soothing herb and as part of preparations intended to “draw” from the skin.

Activated charcoal and bentonite clay complement that traditional use with their highly absorbent and adsorbent properties. Bentonite clay can absorb moisture and oils, while activated charcoal's porous surface can bind substances to its surface. Together with plantain, they create the characteristic dark, earthy “drawing salve” that generations of home herbalists have kept close at hand.

Comfrey and yarrow round out the herbal infusion, making Black Kettle a simple, old-fashioned formula inspired by traditional home apothecary preparations.

Great to keep on hand for: Bug bites and stings, splinters and thorns, minor everyday burns, and small areas of irritated skin.

Size: 2 oz tin

Ingredients: Olive oil infused with plantain, comfrey & yarrow, beeswax, activated charcoal & bentonite clay.

How to Use: Apply a small amount to the desired area and cover with a clean bandage if desired. Reapply as needed.

Caution: For external use only. Do not apply to serious burns, deep wounds, or severely damaged skin. Avoid eyes and other sensitive areas. Activated charcoal may stain clothing and fabrics. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.