Photo: Rasbak, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Skin and body care · From Bladwijzer

Poplar bud oil

Updated on 9 October 2026

• Makes: ± 250 ml
• Time: 15 min + 4–6 weeks steeping
• From: Hybrid black poplar

Ingredients

• 40 g fresh, sticky poplar buds (about 2 handfuls)
• 250 ml sunflower oil or mild olive oil

Method

1. Collect the sticky buds between January and March, preferably from twigs that have fallen to the ground after wind or pruning.
2. Pick the buds off the twigs. Your fingers will turn sticky and smell of balsam; rub a little oil over them to loosen the resin.
3. Spread the buds out on a cloth for 1–2 days in a dry, airy place. Damp buds make the oil go mouldy.
4. Put the buds in a clean, completely dry jar of 400 ml and pour the oil over until they are well covered.
5. Seal and leave the jar for 4–6 weeks in a warm, light place, out of direct sun. Shake every few days.
6. Strain through a fine cloth, squeeze the buds well and pour the oil into a dark bottle. Write the date on it.
7. Rub a few drops into dry hands, or keep the oil for the wood wax.

Storing: Keep dark and cool for up to 6 months; plant oils can go rancid. Resin can cause a skin reaction: patch-test on a small area first and do not use the oil if you are allergic to propolis, bee products or balsam of Peru. Not for open wounds.