I want to share a recipe that I learned from Janne Hallqvist, founder and course manager of the folk high school Naturens medicin on Biskops Arnö. At this fine folk high school, Janne Hallqvist created the fantastic course Naturens medicin. Many of us have taken it and have Janne to thank for our love of herbs. As many probably know, Janne left this world in 2024, with this blog post we want to honor Janne.
Janne created the most unique herbal recipes. Innovative manufacturing methods and inspiration drawn from historical sources were his signature here. The nettle ointment, with its slightly greenish tint, has become a classic "Bishop Arnö ointment". The manufacturing method is different from the usual way of making ointments; here you boil the stinging nettle in the oil. But the result is the same as for all natural skin care, you get an ointment that is gentle on the skin and that does not add anything other than natural substances.
Janne named the ointment "Hildegard of Bingen's ointment against involuntary forgetfulness" and drew inspiration from Hildegard of Bingen, a remarkable nun, mystic, healer, and artist who worked in Germany in the 12th century.
DO THIS:
Nettle, about 2 liters
1/2 liter of olive oil or rapeseed oil
100 g beeswax
Mix everything in a saucepan. Cook over a fairly low heat for about 40 minutes. When the temperature is about 106 g C it is ready. Strain through a coarse sieve and try to squeeze out as much oil as possible. Strain the oil once more through a fine sieve. Pour into a clean saucepan. Heat to 110 g C. Remove from the heat and let stand for a couple of minutes until the water starts to bubble away. Pour into a bowl and add finely divided beeswax. 
Let cool while stirring.
Pour into jars before it becomes too stiff and thick.
P.S. Remember to sterilize jars and lids before filling them, for example by dipping them in boiling water for a while.
Store your natural skincare in the fridge and only have the jar you are using at the moment on hand. It is also great to give as a gift, perhaps to someone who needs a little extra power. The name "against involuntary forgetfulness" is precisely because it uses the nettle's nutrients and is supposed to help you remember a little better.
Text: Sara Bonadea George
