A Simple Plantain Salve: A Folk Herbalist's Guide

Hello Healers!

Some of the most treasured herbs in folk traditions aren't exotic or difficult to find. In fact, some grow quietly beneath our feet, waiting to be noticed.

Plantain is one of those herbs.

For generations, folk herbalists have gathered plantain from fields, gardens, and roadsides, valuing it as a dependable ally for the skin and keeping it close at hand in the home apothecary.

Today, we'll make a simple plantain salve using dried plantain leaves, raw coconut oil, and soy wax. It's an easy recipe for beginners and a beautiful way to connect with one of herbalism's most beloved plants.

What You'll Need

• 1/2 cup dried plantain leaf

• 6 oz raw coconut oil (the kind solid at room temperature)

• 2 oz soy wax

• Stainless steel pot with lid

• Fine mesh strainer

• Cheesecloth

• One clean 8 oz mason jar or equivalent container

Always use fully dried herbs when making oil infusions to reduce the risk of moisture and spoilage.

Step 1: Infuse the Oil

Add the raw coconut oil to your stainless steel pot and warm it gently until partially melted.

Once the oil begins to liquefy, add the dried plantain.

Place the pot on the stovetop over low heat and keep the temperature around 150°F.

Important guidelines:

• Keep the pot covered during infusion

• Stir every 5–10 minutes

• Do not allow the oil to boil

• Infuse for approximately 3–5 hours

• If boiling begins, remove the pot from heat immediately, lower the temperature, and continue once stabilized

Slow, steady heat has long been a favored method among folk herbalists, allowing the oil to take on the qualities of the herb while keeping the process simple and approachable.

Step 2: Strain the Herbs

Once the infusion is complete, place a cheesecloth over a fine mesh strainer and carefully strain the plantain from the oil.

Using both together helps catch smaller plant particles and creates a smoother finished salve.

Press gently to remove as much infused oil as possible.

At this stage, you have a beautiful plantain-infused oil that can be used on its own or transformed into a salve.

Step 3: Add the Soy Wax

Return the infused oil to the pot and add the 2 oz of soy wax.

Stir gently over low heat (around 150°F) until the wax fully melts into the oil.

This ratio creates a soft, smooth salve that spreads easily and holds up well at room temperature.

Step 4: Pour and Cool

Carefully pour the finished salve into your clean 8 oz mason jar while still warm.

Allow the salve to cool completely before placing the lid on the container.

As it cools, the mixture will firm into a smooth herbal salve ready for your home apothecary.

What Is Plantain Salve Traditionally Used For?

Plantain has a long history of use as a topical herb and is often one of the first plants new herbalists learn to work with.

Traditionally, plantain salves have been used for:

• Minor scrapes and scratches

• Bug bites and stings

• Dry or rough skin

• Minor burns

• Skin exposed to wind, sun, or cold weather

• General skin soothing and moisturizing

Its reputation as a practical, everyday herb is one reason plantain has remained a staple of folk herbal traditions for centuries.

A Weed to Some, a Treasure to Others

There's an old idea in folk herbalism that the plants we need most are often the ones growing closest to home.

Plantain is a perfect example.

Though many people overlook it as a common weed, generations of herbalists have recognized its value and passed their knowledge down through simple preparations like this one.

Sometimes the oldest wisdom is also the simplest: know your plants, keep your remedies close, and let nature teach you a little at a time.

Until Next Time!