Cut leaves from the creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), a hardy evergreen shrub native to the deserts of the American Southwest and Mexico, where it is known as chaparral or gobernadora. After desert rain, its resinous leaves give off a distinctive, earthy, smoky aroma that many people say smells like the desert itself.
Chaparral has a long history in Southwestern herbal traditions. Today it is most often infused into oils and used to make homemade salves and balms.
Ingredients: Chaparral leaves (Larrea tridentata)
To make an infused oil: Fill a clean, dry jar one-third full with chaparral leaves and cover completely with olive oil. Seal and leave in a warm spot for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and use as a base for salves and balms.
⚠️For external use only. Do not drink or eat. Chaparral taken internally has been linked to serious liver damage. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use on broken skin. Test on a small area first and stop use if irritation occurs. If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before use.
Cut leaves from the creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), a hardy evergreen shrub native to the deserts of the American Southwest and Mexico, where it is known as chaparral or gobernadora. After desert rain, its resinous leaves give off a distinctive, earthy, smoky aroma that many people say smells like the desert itself.
Chaparral has a long history in Southwestern herbal traditions. Today it is most often infused into oils and used to make homemade salves and balms.
Ingredients: Chaparral leaves (Larrea tridentata)
To make an infused oil: Fill a clean, dry jar one-third full with chaparral leaves and cover completely with olive oil. Seal and leave in a warm spot for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and use as a base for salves and balms.
⚠️For external use only. Do not drink or eat. Chaparral taken internally has been linked to serious liver damage. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use on broken skin. Test on a small area first and stop use if irritation occurs. If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before use.
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