How to Make Poultices

Dear Dr. Cutler,
You caught my attention when I saw your True Health Tip about poultices in the October 8, 2008, edition of House Calls™. I have been thinking about trying a poultice but I’m not sure how to go about it. Could you give me an idea about how to make one?
—Mona B.


Dear Mona,

First, the cloth that you use to make a poultice can be gauze, linen, muslin, cotton or any porous material that can allow the medicinal mixture to drain through to the skin slowly. The actual ingredients usually are shielded through the cloth layers to protect sensitive skin from too much exposure and to prolong the healing properties of the poultice. These cloth layers are also wrapped in either plastic or other cloth layers to prevent leakage and possible staining.

Secondly, you can make a dry or a wet poultice. A dry poultice is made by combining the ingredients in a mortar and pestle, and by grinding the herbs into fine powder. Apply warm water and mix the powder into a thick paste that can be applied onto the prepared cloth on a flat surface, ensuring the paste is big enough to cover the affected area.

A wet poultice is made by simmering the ingredients in a saucepan for two minutes, and then straining the mixture on the prepared cloth (over the kitchen sink) so that the remaining ingredients can then be applied to the affected area. Most people use a pin to fasten the cloth together firmly once the poultice has been applied.

Be sure to gently cleanse the affected area of your body with warm water and soap, or with hydrogen peroxide before you apply the poultice.

All the best!
Michael Cutler, M.D.