Aloe Vera: The use of Aloe Vera can be traced back 2,000 years when the Greek historian Dioscorides recorded the use of Aloe as a healing herb. Aloe Vera is known for its healing effects on wounds, burns, and sores. Clinical studies have concluded that Aloe has anesthetic, antibacterial, and tissue restorative properties.
Comfrey: Comfrey derives its name from the Latin conferta, meaning "grow together." The healing compound found in it is Allantoin, which affects tissue growth and speeds healing in wounds and burns. It is an astringent, capable of drawing out infection from the body and destroying harmful bacteria.
Goldenseal: The active ingredient in goldenseal is Hydrastine, which is an antiseptic. It is highly effective in eradicating skin infections or sores. Goldenseal is tonic, restoring tone and strength to body tissue. Modern research confirms the plant's strong antibacterial and even anti-viral action.
Myrrh: Myrrh was one of the gifts of the wise men at the dawn of the Christian era. Myrrh has, since ancient times, been used as a cleansing agent, countering putrefaction and poisons throughout the body. It is antifungal and antiseptic. Veterinary medicine has long used it in salves for sores and burns, and for wounds, especially for horses.
Cayenne: Cayenne is antiseptic, and inhibits growth of micro-organisms on living tissue. Its active ingredient, Capsaicin, can be put in a fresh or old wound; it is very healing and non-irritating. The cayenne used in Schreiner's comes from Sierra Leone in Africa, and is said to be the most pungent and medicinal.
Elder: Elder is one of the most important of all herbs. The blossoms, as used in Schreiner's, are the most potent part of the plant and make for an effective treatment for wounds and skin ailments. Elder blossoms were listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1831 to 1905, and noted as a blood purifier.