Indian English with Human Touch Writing:
Gardening: Therapy on a Budget and a Treat of Juicy Tomatoes!
Gardening is not just about growing fresh fruits and vegetables; it has a profound impact on our health and well-being. Many senior citizens in their 90s still find joy and relaxation in spending hours tending to their gardens. The benefits of gardening may come from the abundance of vitamin D, the presence of beneficial organisms in the soil, the physical exercise involved, or simply the calming effect of being close to nature.
Wearing gloves while gardening is a personal choice, but some of us prefer to feel the plants and soil with our bare hands. To avoid any adverse effects from pesticides and fertilizers, we opt for organic options, but this can sometimes lead to cracked and dry hands.
The Charm of Salves:
Salves are oil-based ointments infused with healing herbs that provide nourishment and promote faster recovery. Unlike lotions, which contain water and oils for hydration, salves are made with oils and wax. Depending on your preference, you can choose from various oils like coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, or rosehip seed oil to create your own customized salve.
Using salves for different purposes is a common practice in many households. From soothing cracked heels to fading stretch marks and even drawing out splinters, salves offer a natural solution for skincare. I personally use salves to care for my hands and keep my cuticles moisturized.
Recipe for Gardeners Hand Salve:
This specially crafted salve is infused with soothing herbs that nourish dry skin and promote quick healing of minor cuts and bruises acquired during gardening. The unique dark green color of this salve comes from the infusion of various herbs, giving it an earthy and therapeutic scent that lingers on your skin long after application.
Choosing the right herbs is crucial for the effectiveness of the salve. You can select from a variety of restorative herbs, but I recommend using a mix of herbs like (mention the specific herbs used).
Before You Begin: Infuse the Herbs Into the Oil
To maximize the benefits of the salve, it is essential to infuse the herbs into the oil properly. Depending on the time available, you can opt for a quick infusion method using a double boiler or a longer, slow infusion process.
Option 1: One Day Option
For those in a hurry, a quick infusion method involves simmering the oil and herbs in a double boiler for a few hours until the oil turns dark green. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth and store the infused oil in an airtight container.
Option 2: Longer Option
If you have the patience to wait, a slow infusion method involves placing the herbs and oil in a glass jar and letting it sit for at least three weeks. Shake the jar occasionally to promote infusion. Strain out the herbs and store the oil in a clean container.
Gardeners Hand Salve Preparation:
This herb-infused hand salve is a perfect remedy for dry and damaged hands, especially for gardeners and those with rough skin. The process involves melting beeswax, shea butter, and herb-infused oil in a double boiler, adding lavender essential oil for fragrance, pouring the mixture into a container, and cooling it in the refrigerator to prevent the shea butter from becoming grainy.
More Salve Recipes to Explore:
If you enjoy making your own skincare products, there are several salve recipes that cater to various skincare needs using botanical oils and waxes. By creating your own salves, you have control over the ingredients and can avoid harmful chemicals often found in commercial products.
Do you enjoy gardening? Have you tried using moisturizing hand creams or salves to protect your hard-working hands? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
(Note: This article offers a DIY recipe for a homemade hand salve using natural ingredients and herbs, suitable for gardeners and anyone looking for a nourishing skincare solution.)
