At Home Remedies for Drawing Salve: Free DIY Recipe
Home Remedies for Drawing Salve: Natural Healing for Your Skin
At home remedies for drawing salve have been used since ancient times to help remove foreign objects and harmful substances from the skin. These traditional remedies work by using natural drawing agents to pull out embedded toxins, dirt, and bacteria from the top layer of the skin.

A homemade drawing salve recipe includes natural ingredients like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and castor oil. These ingredients help cleanse the affected area, reduce skin inflammation, and support the healing process. Many people rely on black drawing salve for treating bug bites, deep splinters, ingrown hairs, and pus-filled bumps.
Using home remedies for drawing salves can be an effective remedy for minor skin irritations and bacterial infections. Adding a small amount of neem oil or tea tree oil enhances its healing properties. Keeping a natural first aid kit with a homemade drawing salve recipe ensures quick relief for minor wounds and skin infections.
This post contains affiliate links for high-quality ingredients and tools needed to make your own drawing salve.
Save for Later!

What Is a Home Remedy for Drawing Salve?
A black drawing salve is a traditional remedy used to remove foreign substances, toxins, and bacteria from the surface of your skin. This natural drawing agent works by pulling out embedded toxins, dirt, and harmful substances from the affected area, supporting the healing process. Many people use a homemade drawing salve recipe for minor skin irritations, deep splinters, and insect bites.
How Does a Drawing Salve Work?
A drawing salve helps extract foreign objects, dirt, and harmful substances from the top layer of the skin. Natural ingredients like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and castor oil create a thick layer of drawing salve that draws out embedded toxins. Applying a generous amount of black salve and covering the affected area with a clean bandage helps the healing process.
A homemade drawing salve recipe also soothes skin inflammation, reduces pain, and promotes faster healing. Some herbal remedies include neem oil, tea tree oil, or calendula oil for additional healing properties.
Common Uses for a DIY Drawing Salve
Using a natural drawing salve is an effective remedy for various skin concerns. Some common uses include:
Insect Bites, Mosquito Bites, and Spider Bites
A drawing salve can help relieve irritation from bug bites, including mosquito bites and spider bites. It helps extract toxins left behind by insect bites and soothes the affected area.
Deep Splinters and Ingrown Hairs
A homemade drawing salve recipe works well for deep splinters and ingrown hairs. Applying a thick layer of drawing salve softens the skin and encourages foreign objects to surface.
Pus-Filled Bumps and Deep Pimples
Charcoal drawing salve can help with pus-filled bumps and deep pimples by drawing out impurities. This helps reduce swelling and promotes clear skin.
Bee Stings and Minor Skin Irritations
A natural first aid kit should include a drawing salve for bee stings and minor skin irritations. The salve helps pull out venom, soothes pain, and reduces inflammation.
Epidermoid Cysts and Bacterial Infections
Some people use a drawing salve for epidermoid cysts or bacterial infections. While home remedies can help, medical care may be necessary for serious conditions.
Charcoal Drawing Salve vs. Corrosive Salve
Charcoal drawing salve and corrosive salve are not the same. A homemade drawing salve recipe contains natural ingredients like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and herb-infused oil. It works gently to remove embedded toxins without damaging the top layer of skin.
A corrosive salve, often containing zinc chloride, is much more potent and can harm healthy tissue. It is not recommended for regular use and should only be applied in a sterile environment with medical supervision.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Home remedies for drawing salve are useful for minor wounds, but some conditions require professional medical attention. Seek medical care if you experience:
- Severe bacterial infections or deep skin infections
- Skin inflammation that worsens instead of improving
- Concerns about skin cancer, unusual growths, or persistent cysts
- A foreign object that does not come out after repeated use of a drawing salve
While a homemade drawing salve recipe can be a wonderful natural remedy, an accurate diagnosis is essential for severe conditions. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional.
Key Ingredients for a Natural Drawing Salve
A homemade drawing salve recipe relies on natural ingredients with powerful healing properties. These ingredients work together to remove foreign substances, soothe skin inflammation, and support the healing process.
Herb-Infused Oils for Skin Healing
Calendula Oil
Calendula oil is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. This herbal remedy has been used since ancient times to promote skin repair and reduce irritation.

Plantain Oil
Plantain oil is a wonderful herb-infused oil known for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to treat skin irritations, cuts, and scrapes. Its ability to promote tissue regeneration makes it a helpful ingredient in drawing salves.
Yarrow Oil
Yarrow oil has a long history of being used for wound healing. It is known to reduce inflammation, promote circulation, and help with tissue regeneration. It also has antimicrobial properties, making it a great addition to any herbal first aid remedy.
Comfrey Oil
Comfrey oil, rich in allantoin, is renowned for its skin-healing properties. It promotes cell regeneration, reduces inflammation, and accelerates the healing of wounds and injuries. This oil is especially beneficial for treating deep skin issues and supporting the healing of damaged tissues.
Olive Oil
Olive oil nourishes dry skin and supports the healing process by keeping the affected area moisturized.

Castor Oil
Castor oil acts as a natural drawing agent, helping to extract embedded toxins, foreign objects, and harmful substances from the skin.

Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains antibacterial properties that protect the skin from infection while providing a smooth texture for easy application.

Making Your Own Herbal-Infused Oils
Creating your own herbal-infused oils is a simple yet powerful way to harness the natural healing properties of plants. Infusing herbs like calendula, plantain, yarrow, or comfrey into oils such as olive or coconut oil allows you to create a base that’s rich in nutrients and perfect for your DIY remedies.
If you’re new to making herbal oils or want to learn more about the process, check out my detailed blog post on how to make your own herbal oil. In it, I walk you through the steps of choosing the right herbs, selecting the best carrier oils, and properly infusing them for maximum potency. Whether you want to create a soothing oil for your skin or add extra healing power to your drawing salve, this guide will help you get started.
Ready to dive in and make your own herbal oils? Head over to my How to Make an Herbal Oil blog post for more details!
Natural Ingredients to Draw Out Toxins
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal binds to toxins and helps pull foreign substances from the top layer of the skin. This natural drawing agent is effective for deep splinters, ingrown hairs, and pus-filled bumps.

Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay absorbs toxins while soothing minor skin irritations. This clay has been used as a traditional remedy for drawing out impurities from the skin.

Kaolin Clay
Kaolin clay is a gentle, skin-friendly clay that cleanses and purifies the affected area without causing excessive dryness.

Essential Oils for Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a powerful antibacterial essential oil that fights infections and soothes inflamed skin. This effective remedy is commonly used for bug bites, deep pimples, and minor skin irritations.

Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil calms irritated skin and promotes the healing process. This essential oil also provides a pleasant scent to the homemade drawing salve recipe.
Optional Ingredient: Manuka Honey for Extra Healing
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey contains antibacterial and wound-healing properties, making it a great addition to a DIY drawing salve. This ingredient helps soothe minor skin irritations while keeping the affected area hydrated.

Waxes for Texture and Protection
Beeswax and candelilla wax are essential for giving your drawing salve its thick, smooth texture. Beeswax forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture while also offering natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Candelilla wax, a plant-based alternative, provides a firm yet silky consistency, making it a great option for those seeking a vegan-friendly ingredient. These waxes not only enhance the texture of the salve but also support the skin’s healing process, ensuring the salve is not only easy to apply and long-lasting.
Beeswax or Candelilla Wax
Beeswax is a natural ingredient that helps to thicken the drawing salve while providing a protective barrier for the skin. It also offers anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, promoting faster healing.

Candelilla wax, derived from the candelilla shrub, adds additional soothing benefits. It enhances the salve’s ability to calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

Both beeswax and candelilla wax contribute to the overall nourishing and healing properties of your homemade drawing salve.
Skin-Soothing Ingredients for Extra Nourishment
Shea Butter
Shea butter softens dry skin and reduces skin inflammation, helping the healing process.

Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil provides antioxidant support and aids in repairing damaged skin.
A natural drawing salve with these key ingredients is a wonderful natural remedy for deep splinters, bug bites, and minor wounds. Storing it in a small jar in a dark place ensures it stays fresh and effective for future use.
DIY Drawing Salve Recipe
Creating your own drawing salve at home is simple and effective, and this recipe uses natural ingredients with powerful healing properties. The following recipe will make about 4 oz of drawing salve, perfect for addressing minor skin irritations, splinters, and insect bites.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp herbal-infused oil of choice
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tbsp candelilla wax
- 1 tsp activated charcoal
- 1 tsp bentonite clay
- 1 tsp kaolin clay
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 1 tsp optional manuka honey
Instructions
Melt the Oils and Wax
In a double boiler, gently melt the herbal-infused castor oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and candelilla wax together. Stir occasionally to ensure everything melts evenly and combines smoothly.

Mix in the Powders
Once fully melted, remove the mixture from heat. Slowly stir in the activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and kaolin clay. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth, thick paste without lumps. Using an emulsion blender may be helpful for this.

Add Essential Oils and Honey
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the essential oils. Then, stir in the tea tree and lavender essential oils until well incorporated. If you’re using manuka honey, add it at this stage and stir gently until fully blended into the salve.

Cool and Store
Carefully pour the finished salve mixture into a 4 oz glass jar or tin. Let it cool at room temperature until fully solid, usually within 1–2 hours.

Apply as Needed
Once the salve is completely cooled and set, it’s ready to use! Apply a small amount to clean skin on the affected area. Great for splinters, bug bites, or minor irritations.

This homemade drawing salve, with natural ingredients like herbal-infused castor oil, coconut oil, activated charcoal, and optional manuka honey, is a wonderful remedy for soothing skin and drawing out foreign substances. Enjoy your DIY natural first aid kit essential!
Natural Drawing Salve Recipe

This natural drawing salve is a time-tested remedy for splinters, insect bites, ingrown hairs, and minor skin irritations. Made with herbal-infused oils, activated charcoal, and bentonite clay, it gently draws out impurities while soothing and nourishing the skin. Optional Manuka honey adds extra antibacterial benefits.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp herbal-infused oil of choice
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tbsp candelilla wax
- 1 tsp activated charcoal
- 1 tsp bentonite clay
- 1 tsp kaolin clay
- 10 drops tea tree essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 1 tsp optional manuka honey
Instructions
- Melt the oils and wax: In a double boiler, gently melt the herbal-infused oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and candelilla wax together. Stir occasionally to ensure everything melts evenly.
- Mix in the powders: Once melted, remove from heat and slowly add the activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and kaolin clay. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth paste.
- Add the essential oils and honey: Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add the tea tree and lavender essential oils. Stir well to evenly distribute the oils. If using manuka honey, add it at this stage and mix it thoroughly to incorporate the honey into the salve.
- Cool and store: Pour the mixture into a 4 oz glass jar or tin and allow it to cool completely. This process should take about 1-2 hours, depending on the room temperature.
- Apply as needed: Once your salve is fully cooled and solidified, it’s ready to use! Apply a small amount to the affected area as needed for minor irritations, insect bites, or splinters.
Notes
For best results, choose herbal-infused oils known for skin healing. I love using a blend of plantain, yarrow, and comfrey infused in olive or castor oil. These herbs support the skin’s natural repair process, soothe inflammation, and enhance the drawing effect of the salve.
You can use just one herb or combine them depending on what you have available.
If you're new to infusing oils, check out my blog post How to Make Herbal Infused Oils for a simple, step-by-step guide.
Store your finished salve in a cool, dark place. It should keep well for up to 12 months.
This drawing salve is for external use only. Avoid use on deep wounds or infected areas without professional guidance.
Always test a small amount on the skin first to check for sensitivity, especially when using essential oils.
How to Use Drawing Salve for Different Skin Concerns
For Splinters and Foreign Objects
Clean the affected area with warm water.
Apply a thick layer of drawing salve and cover with a clean bandage.
Leave on overnight and check the next morning. Use a magnifying glass if needed.
For Insect Bites, Bee Stings, and Spider Bites
Apply a small amount of drawing salve to the bug bites and let sit for several hours.
Cover with a bandage if needed.
For Ingrown Hairs, Deep Pimples, and Cysts
Apply a generous amount of black salve to the hair follicles or pus-filled bumps.
Let sit for a few hours before rinsing with warm water.
For Skin Tags and Minor Skin Irritations
Dab a small amount of drawing salve onto the surface of your skin.
Repeat daily until it dries out naturally.
Purchase Ready-Made Drawing Salve at Pioneer Health
If you love the idea of a homemade drawing salve but prefer the convenience of a ready-made option, you’re in luck! You can find my handmade drawing salve, crafted with natural ingredients like herbal infused oil, coconut oil, activated charcoal, and more, at our online shop.
This all-natural salve is perfect for soothing insect bites, splinters, bee stings, and other minor skin irritations. It’s designed to gently draw out toxins and foreign objects from the skin while promoting healing.
Why Choose My Drawing Salve?
- Made with herbal-infused oils for their soothing properties
- Includes natural drawing agents like activated charcoal and bentonite clay
- Formulated with shea butter and essential oils for added skin benefits
- Free from harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients
Want to learn more about how this remedy works? Check out my full blog post on how to make and use a drawing salve for different skin concerns.
Ready to Try It?
Visit my shop here to get your healing drawing salve today!

Precautions and When to Seek Medical Care
Use in a Clean Environment
Always use a drawing salve in a clean environment to avoid infections.
Clean the affected area thoroughly before application to reduce the risk of contamination.
Avoid Use on Open Wounds and Severe Infections
Avoid using drawing salve on open wounds, skin inflammation, or bacterial infections without an accurate diagnosis.
If you are unsure about the condition of your skin, seek medical advice before proceeding with treatment.
Consult a Healthcare Provider if Symptoms Persist
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Drawing salve is a natural remedy, but it may not be suitable for all skin conditions.

Overview
Benefits of Your Own Drawing Salve
Drawing salve is a wonderful natural remedy for minor skin concerns.
With its natural ingredients, it can effectively help with splinters, insect bites, and more.
Add It to Your Natural First Aid Kit
Consider adding this homemade remedy to your natural first aid kit for quick relief from minor skin irritations.
It’s a simple, effective way to care for your skin using natural drawing agents.
Try This Effective Remedy for Future Skin Concerns
Next time you get a deep splinter or bug bite, try this effective remedy and see how well it works for you!
It’s a handy and healing addition to your natural health toolkit.

The Best Herbs for Liver Cleanse: Top Natural Detox
Sharing is caring! Facebook Pinterest X Email Print The Best Herbs for Liver Cleanse: Top Natural Detox Why Liver Health Matters The best herbs for liver cleanse can be a powerful way to support your body’s natural detox systems and promote long-term wellness. As a nurse and mom of five, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial…

How to Make a Hydrosol at Home
How to Make a Hydrosol at Home A Step-by-Step Guide Using Spearmint and a Simple Distiller There’s something magical about capturing the essence of a plant in its purest, most natural form. If you’ve ever used rose water or lavender hydrosols, you’ve already experienced the soothing, aromatic benefits of herbal hydrosols—also known as flower waters,…

Best Magnesium Lotion Recipe: Natural and Safe for Everyone
Best Magnesium Lotion Recipe: Natural and Safe for Everyone Magnesium plays a crucial role in good health, yet many people have low magnesium levels. Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, restless leg syndrome, and sleep problems. Using topical magnesium is a great way to support magnesium levels without the side effects of oral supplements….

Best Natural Mosquito and Tick Repellent Spray Recipe
Best Natural Mosquito and Tick Repellent Spray Recipe Natural Mosquito and Tick Repellent: Warmer Weather, More Bugs Natural mosquito and tick repellent became essential for our family when we couldn’t enjoy evenings outside without getting bitten. As the warmer weather returns, so do mosquitoes, deer ticks, and the lone star tick. These pests thrive in…

Best Beginner’s Guide on How to Grow an Herb Garden
Best Beginner’s Guide on How to Grow an Herb Garden How to Grow an Herb Garden: A Great Way to Have Access to Fresh Herbs Year-Round Learning how to grow an herb garden is the best way to enjoy fresh herbs straight from home. Fresh herbs enhance favorite dishes, provide medicinal uses, and add fragrance…

How to Make an Arthritis Salve: Best Recipe for Natural Pain Relief
How to Make an Arthritis Salve: Best Recipe for Natural Pain Relief Understanding Arthritis Pain and How an Anti-Inflammatory Salve Can Help An arthritis salve recipe offers a natural solution for easing chronic pain and joint pain. This salve helps reduce inflammation and discomfort in a gentle, holistic way, targeting muscle pain and sore joints….