How to Make a Charcoal Poultice (a.k.a. Poulticettes!)

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A neat and natural remedy for bites, stings, and skin irritations

When I was a little girl, I remember my grandmother using the word poultice, and for some reason, my mind linked it to milk toast—Grandma’s go-to comfort food for sick children. Perhaps it was the soft, warm texture that both shared, or maybe just the soothing associations of being cared for.

While I now know a poultice is a soft, moist mass of plant material or flour applied to the body to relieve soreness and inflammation, I still smile at the memory of that childhood mix-up. And lately, I’ve been diving back into the old-world wisdom of using poultices—particularly charcoal poultices—for natural first aid and everyday health support.

Why Charcoal?

Activated charcoal is adsorptive, meaning it binds toxins to itself. When taken internally (always with water!), it can help with indigestion or food-related illness. Externally, it can draw out infection, reduce inflammation, and calm rashes or bites. My husband and I use it for everything from an upset stomach to the start of a cold to minor skin infections.

One of our favourite ways to use it topically is in these charcoal poulticettes—little poultices you can make ahead and store in the fridge. They’re surprisingly tidy and effective.

✳️ DIY Charcoal-Flax or Psyllium Poultice (Poulticettes)

You’ll need:

  • 2 sheets of plastic wrap (about 12–18 inches long)

  • ½ cup activated charcoal powder

  • ⅙ cup ground flax seed or psyllium husk

  • Water to cover (start with ¼ cup and add more as needed)

  • Scissors

  • Adhesive bandages or gauze + medical tape

🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the surface
    Lay one sheet of plastic wrap flat on a counter or cutting board. Set the second sheet aside for later.

  2. Make the charcoal gel
    In a bowl, carefully mix:

    • ½ cup activated charcoal

    • ⅙ cup ground flax or psyllium husk

    • Enough water to form a spreadable gel

    Stir slowly to avoid sending charcoal dust into the air. Massage with the back of a spoon until the mixture is uniform and jelly-like.

  3. Spread and seal
    Scoop the gel onto the first sheet of plastic wrap. Place the second sheet on top.
    Use a rolling pin or jar to gently roll the mixture out to about ⅛–¼ inch thickness, like a pie crust.

    Store this "sheet" of poultice in the fridge until needed.

  4. Cut and apply
    When ready to use:

    • Cut a piece of the chilled poultice to fit the affected area.

    • Peel off the top plastic layer.

    • Place the exposed gel side onto the pad of an adhesive bandage, or lay it directly over the wound/bite and secure with gauze and tape.

  5. Replace as needed

    • Change the poultice every few hours.

    • Wash hands before and after use.

    • If the area worsens or doesn’t improve within 24 hours, consult a medical professional.

📝 Notes

  • The flax or psyllium acts as a binder and keeps the charcoal moist.

  • A dry poultice is ineffective, so keep unused poulticettes sealed and refrigerated.

  • This method works well for bites, minor infections, rashes, and inflammation.

*This article is a revised version of one that formerly appeared in my Organic Granny blog. This article used AI for editing purposes.

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