Healing the Skin: Herbs for Skin Wounds and Inflammation

Our skin is our largest organ and the first line of defense against the outside world. It works hard to protect us—but when it's damaged, it can quickly become inflamed, painful, and vulnerable to infection. Thankfully, nature offers powerful herbal allies to help us soothe inflammation, speed healing, and support the skin’s natural repair process.

Whether you’re dealing with cuts, scrapes, burns, or chronic skin conditions like eczema or acne, these herbs have been trusted for generations to bring gentle yet effective relief.

🌿 Top Herbs for Healing Skin Wounds and Inflammation

1. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula is a star herb for skin healing. Its bright orange petals are rich in flavonoids and resins that reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and promote tissue repair. It’s perfect for minor wounds, rashes, and eczema.

How to use:
Infuse the petals in oil to make a healing salve, or steep them in hot water for a gentle skin wash.

2. Plantain (Plantago major or P. lanceolata)

Often dismissed as a weed, plantain is actually one of the most accessible and effective herbs for drawing out infection, soothing inflammation, and encouraging wound healing.

How to use:
Chew a fresh leaf and place it directly on bug bites or cuts for quick relief, or make a poultice or salve from dried leaves.

3. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Known as “knitbone,” comfrey accelerates the healing of tissues, especially for deep wounds, bruises, and sprains. It’s rich in allantoin, which supports cell regeneration.

Caution: Comfrey should not be used on deep wounds that haven’t been cleaned thoroughly, as it may heal the skin too quickly and trap infection inside.

How to use:
Use externally in poultices, compresses, or infused oils and salves.

4. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is both a powerful astringent and antimicrobial herb. It stops bleeding quickly and prevents infection in wounds.

How to use:
Crush fresh leaves to apply directly to a bleeding wound, or brew a strong infusion to use as a wash.

5. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Not only does lavender calm the nervous system, but it also soothes inflamed skin and prevents infection with its antimicrobial properties. It’s great for burns, cuts, and irritated skin.

How to use:
Apply lavender essential oil diluted in a carrier oil, or use cooled lavender tea as a compress.

6. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

Chamomile is incredibly gentle and anti-inflammatory, making it ideal for sensitive or irritated skin, including diaper rash, eczema, and acne.

How to use:
Apply as a tea compress, or add to salves and creams. It can also be used in a soothing bath for full-body support.

🧴 Making a Simple Herbal Skin Salve at Home

Here’s a basic recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup infused oil (like calendula + plantain in olive oil)

• 1 oz beeswax

• Optional: a few drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. Gently warm the infused oil and beeswax in a double boiler until melted.

2. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.

3. Add essential oils if using.

4. Pour into tins or glass jars and let cool completely.

Apply this salve to minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and dry, irritated patches of skin as needed.

💚 Trust the Process of Herbal Healing

Herbal healing is not always instantaneous, but it works with the body—gently, deeply, and holistically. By choosing plants that reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and support regeneration, we can create space for the body to heal on all levels.

Whether you’re making your own remedies or seeking natural solutions for yourself or your family, herbs offer a beautiful path to skin wellness.

🌼 Have you tried any of these skin-healing herbs? Share your experience in the comments or reach out with questions—I love hearing how plant medicine is supporting your journey.