There are so many benefits to gardening besides just the fresh produce. Gardeners are known to live longer and I know many elderly people who still spend hours gardening each week… in their 90s!

A salve is a nourishing, oil-based ointment that is often infused with beneficial herbs and plants to speed healing.

This particular salve contains many soothing herbs that help nourish dry skin and quickly heal any small cuts from gardening.

Herbs to Use Any herbs can be used in this recipe, but I used these: – 1 teaspoon dried comfrey leaf (optional) – 2 tablespoons dried plantain leaf (herb-not banana!)- You might be able to wildcraft this in your backyard.

– 1 tablespoon dried calendula flowers – 1 teaspoon dried yarrow flowers – 1 teaspoon dried rosemary leaf 

Gardeners Salve Ingredients – 1/2 cup of the herb-infused oil – 1 tablespoons of beeswax pastilles (about 1/2 ounce) – 2 tablespoons shea butter – 20 drops of Lavender Essential Oil (optional)

Hand Salve Instructions 1. Melt the beeswax, shea butter and herb-infused oil in a double boiler until melted. 2. Remove from heat and add the lavender essential oil, if using. 3. Quickly and carefully pour into a small glass jar or appropriate size tin.

4. Store in a cool, dry place and use as needed. Store in a place cool enough that it won’t melt and re-harden. I keep in my pantry. 5. Use as needed after gardening or anytime your hands are dry.