Balm of Gilead

A.K.A. Cottonwood, Poplar, Gilly, and Unguentum Populi

1 fl. oz. (30ml)

My Balm of Gilead is inspired by an early 1800s New England folk recipe. I handcrafted this balm with grass fed tallow and wildcrafted poplar buds. I make all my herbal products in small batches. Traditionally, Balm of Gilead is used for itchy dry skin, mild pain, cuts, bug bites, and mild burns. Herbal balms are ointments that are applied topically to the skin. To take advantage of the balm apply generously. These are natural salves and the color, scent and texture may differ slightly. Herbal salves work differently for everyone. My balms are natural skincare that moisture and soften the skin and leave it feeling soothed. Populus (like the species I use in my Balm of Gilead) was an ingredient in ancient flying ointments. In other lore, populus is used for protection and communication with the dead. If you love Balm of Gilead, working with a salve is a great way to form a connection. Balm of Gilead is one of my most favorite scents. When pure tallow is used to make a balm, and no other oils or fats are used, the surface of the balm can look to have white blotches. This is totally normal and is just how the tallow balm cools.

If you are allergic to aspirin use Balm of Gilead cautiously. Don’t use oil based preparations on wet open wounds.

I’ve taken multiple herbal apprenticeships and many courses, classes, and workshops in or around herbalism. The ointments I sell are made from techniques I’ve learned through years of education and use.

10/02/2020

Citrus scented and topped with a soapy lemon slice.
3 in diameter, roughly 5.5 oz

PURE HANDS

Simple care, made with intention.

PURE HANDS – BARE is a fragrance-free hand balm created for those who appreciate straightforward ingredients and a calm, honest approach to skin care.

This balm blends grass-fed beef tallow with olive oil to create a rich, buttery texture that melts easily into the skin. A small amount of vitamin E is included to help support freshness over time.

Nothing flashy. Nothing overwhelming. Just a thoughtfully made balm designed to do its job well.

Why these ingredients

Grass-fed beef tallow
A traditional ingredient long valued for its rich, conditioning feel and naturally creamy texture.

Olive oil
Adds softness and glide, helping the balm spread smoothly and absorb comfortably.

Vitamin E
Included to support product stability and maintain freshness.

Scent Profile – Unscented

What to expect

• A thick, buttery balm that softens quickly with warmth
• A mild, natural aroma from the ingredients themselves
• A little goes a long way
• Hands that feel soft, comfortable, and cared for
• Natural variation in texture with temperature, a normal characteristic of minimally processed balms

Free from

• Synthetic fragrance
• Dyes or colorants
• Preservatives
• Parabens
• Phthalates
• Petroleum-derived ingredients
• Silicones
• Synthetic fillers

Not tested on animals

A gentle difference

Many balms are created to maintain the same look, feel, and scent under all conditions. PURE HANDS – BARE embraces a simpler approach, allowing the natural qualities of its ingredients to shine through.

The result is a balm that feels grounded, familiar, and easy to use, made for everyday moments rather than perfection.

Scripture

“Let your gentleness be evident to all.”
— Philippians 4:5

Care doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful. Sometimes gentleness speaks loudest.

— Lord’s Soap & Skin 

Do your lips need extra moisture, then this is the product for you! Your lips will love this all-natural product! Made only with organic oils and natural beeswax, this balm will rehydrate and protect your lips with organic essential oils.