How to Make an Equine Drawing Salve

There are many chemicals in modern medicines for horses, but once in a while it is nice to reconnect with the past by making your own medicine. This allows you to have complete control over what ingredients you use and know exactly what you are using on your pets. All of the ingredients in this equine salve are effective, soothing and safe for horses.

Things You'll Need

  • Plantain leaves (enough to loosely fill a small canning jar)
  • 2 to 3 oz. beeswax
  • 1 small handful of lavender or other appropriately scented herb
  • Vegetable oil (enough to fill the canning jar of plantain leaves)
  • Clean glass canning jar with lid
  • Small saucepan
  • Frying pan
  • Water
  • Stove
  • Bowl
  • Colander
  • Container with lid for finished salve
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse the plantain leaves in clean water and pat them dry.

    • 2

      Put the plantain leaves in a jar of vegetable oil. The more leaves you use, the stronger the salve will be.

    • 3

      Seal the jar of leaves and oil and store for about 1 month.

    • 4

      Place a large bowl in the sink and set the colander in the bowl. Strain the oil mixture into the bowl and throw out the leaves trapped in the colander.

    • 5

      Place the frying pan on the stove and set the saucepan inside it. Add water to the frying pan to make a double boiler.

    • 6

      Melt the beeswax in the pan of the double boiler over low heat.

    • 7

      Add the strained oil to the melted beeswax.

    • 8

      Crush the lavender or finely chop it and add it to the melted wax and oil. If you prefer, you may use a different herb. Make sure that whatever herb you choose will not cause harm to the horse.

    • 9

      Pour the wax mixture into a container and allow it to cool. It is a good idea to label the container so you remember what is in it.