HOW TO MAKE A CHARCOAL POULTICE

How to make a Jelly charcoal Poultice

1. Grind three tablespoons flaxseed (or use cornstarch).
2. Combine flax meal and 1-3 teaspoons charcoal powder.
3. Pour in 1 cup of water.
4. Set aside for 10-20 minutes to thicken, or heat and cool the mixture.
5. Spread the jelly evenly on a cloth or paper towel of adequate size.
6. Place a second cloth or paper towel over the jelly.
7. Apply the poultice to the affected region (i.e., liver, stomach, kidneys, spleen, knee, eye, ear, sting, or bite area).
8. Wrap the poultice with plastic that is 1 inch bigger all around (to keep the paste from spreading and drying too quickly). Use surgical tape or an ace bandage to keep it in place.
9. Leave the poultice on for at least overnight or 2-4 hours if administered during the day.

how to make a charcoal poultice without flaxseed

This poultice is a variant on the one described above, but it does not contain any thickening agent. As a result, the charcoal may dry out faster and require replacement or remoistening.

1. Make a wet paste with charcoal (1-2 tbsp.) and water. It should be wet without becoming crumbly or drippy.
2. Apply the paste to one half of a folded paper towel, loosely woven fabric, or piece of gauze trimmed to size. When finished, the cloth should be damp and completely saturated with the paste.
3. Fold over the other side of the paper towel or cloth to cover the paste.
4. Next, apply the charcoal poultice to the afflicted region, ensuring sure it fully covers it.
5. Cover the poultice with plastic (when available, plastic food wrap works well) and cut an inch on all sides to overhang the poultice. This prevents it from drying out. If the charcoal dries up, it loses its ability to absorb.
6. Finish by tightly bandaging or taping the poultice in place. Leave it on for a few hours, preferably overnight. Another poultice might be placed after 6 to 10 hours.
   Remember, Poultices of any sort only work if they are in constant touch with the skin.