Winter in the Midwest isn’t just for skiing, skating and ice fishing—it also brings opportunities to forage for nourishing and healing plants. Even in the colder months, nature provides a variety of plants available for harvest that can be used for food and medicine.

One valuable winter find is the cottonwood bud (Populus spp.), a member of the Salicaceae family. Gathered in February and March, these buds are used to make balm of Gilead oil, a traditional remedy known for its deep, sweet aroma and anti-inflammatory properties. Cottonwood trees, which grow along waterways, often shed branches during storms, offering a sustainable way to gather buds without harming the trees.

Infused Cottonwood Oil
(Balm of Gilead Oil)
YIELD: 8 oz jar

• 2 oz cottonwood tree buds
• 8 oz olive oil
• 8 oz jar

Place the buds in the jar, noting that they will expand as they absorb the oil. Pour olive oil over the buds until they are fully covered. Cover the jar with cheesecloth or another breathable cloth, securing it with a rubber band. Let the mixture steep for 6-8 weeks. Strain out the buds and store the oil in an amber-colored jar.

This infused oil can be applied topically to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, making it especially helpful for sore or arthritic joints.

Herbalist Linda Conroy offers herbal education, workshops, apprenticeships, consultations and an online herb store. She holds master’s degrees in social service and law and social policy. She is the founder of Moonwise Herbs, the Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference and Mycelium Mysteries Women’s Mushroom Conference. For more information, visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com and MoonWiseHerbs.com