Rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants, polyphenols and flavonoids, a close cousin to the famous skincare ingredient – calendula – is gaining a reputation of its own.
Though the therapeutic properties of dandelion are often most closely associated with roasted dandelion root tea, the entire plant is chock-full of beneficial components.
Both dandelion flower and leaf extracts, for example, protect against UVB-related photoaging and senescence (aging at the cellular level). (1) This is likely due to the high antioxidant content, which helps counteract free radicals.
Though dandelion-infused oil can be used directly on skin, many people prefer to thicken it into a salve that’s both portable and deeply moisturizing. The easy dandelion salve recipe below soothes skin irritations while nourishing dry skin, making it an all-purpose healing balm that’s perfect for use as a:
For an all-purpose healing balm, I like to use kid-safe essential oils like lavender, frankincense, chamomile and tea tree.
For a relaxing muscle rub, black pepper, copiaba, and lavender essential oil are good choices, too.
