Poplar Bud Resin Salve

The aromatic and resinous winter buds of the northern Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) tree have numerous medicinal properties. The resin functions to protect the dormant, unopened leaf bud from pests, bacteria, fungal growth, disease and environmental elements. These same powerful, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-rheumatic, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties are utilized in a topical salve for the skin. Poplar is a member of the Willow family and the buds contain natural Salicin (a compound related to salicylic acid - the active ingredient in Aspirin) that can also reduce pain and inflammation.

Historically in Canada, First Nations utilized the fragrant, resinous buds in medicine. The buds would be collected early in spring and either combined with heated bear fat or grease to make a salve for treating wounds, eczema, sores, rashes, head colds, bronchitis and coughs.

The buds used in our Popular Bud Resin Salve (also traditionally known as the Balm of Gilead) are sustainably hand-harvested in March/early April in the Boreal forest in northern Alberta, when resin content is highest. Unopened buds are utilized mainly from wind fallen branches, or fallen trees, since the branches are often too high to harvest from the ground. Poplar buds have a beautiful, warm, fragrant aroma that is magnified when the resin from the buds is extracted in warm oil. The fresh buds are then strained out and the oil is combined with organic Alberta beeswax. 

Poplar Bud salve has pain relieving effects and can be applied topically to sprains/strains, sore muscles and arthritic joints. The resin is also high in antioxidants, and encourages skin cell regeneration. It is wonderful at healing burns (including sunburns), eczema, rashes, acne and cracked skin/heels. Its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties also mean that the salve can be applied directly to wounds or for treating fungal infections. It is also an expectorant and can be used as a natural chest rub for chest coughs. Many people also use it as a perfume, due to its unique smell.

Essential oil free. Safe for children and during pregnancy/breastfeeding.

Limited quantity available due to the seasonal nature of this salve.

Ingredients (*Certified Organic, ^Wildcrafted): Balsam Poplar (Populus Balsamifera) Winter Buds^, Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus) Oil*, Extra Virgin Olive (Olea Europaea) Oil*, Alberta Beeswax (Cera Alba)*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Directions: Apply topically for healing of wounds, skin conditions, burns, sore muscles, inflammation and body pain. External use only. Discontinue if irritation occurs.

Contraindications: Please avoid using if you are allergic to Aspirin as Balsam Poplar buds contain natural Salicin. Caution recommended for those with seasonal allergies, hayfever or tree allergies as skin irritation can result.

Size: 2oz (57g) metal tin