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You probably won't be surprised to hear I use this product. Created in 1899, Bag Balm has been soothing the udders of cows for over a hundred years. I'm here to tell you that it is great for people, too.
I know, I know, you think I'm crazy...but many many years ago, I read about Bag Balm in the Vermont Country Store* catalogue and I've been smitten by it ever since. (The Vermont Country Store, by the way, is an excellent source for all things "practical.") I read about its healing properties, the fact that it is antiseptic and its wonderful ability to soothe cracked, dry skin and ordered a big ole tub of the stuff.
It's true, Bag Balm has a strange, but subtle, medicinal scent, but nothing beats its amazing properties. It's like super petroleum jelly. Originally marketed to soothe the dry, cracked skin of cows, farmers who were applying it to their livestock realized that it was healing their dry hands, too - and the rest is history.
Available in tiny square tubs which are perfect for a handbag, or big giant tins to keep by your bedside, I use it on my feet in the winter by rubbing some on before bed and pulling on socks. I always wake to smoother feet. It's great on my cuticles, which tend to get splintery when the weather gets cold, and I've even dabbed it on my lips. Bag Balm contains a mild antiseptic and has proved itself handy after one of us gets a minor cut at the beach. And speaking of the beach, I've even used it on sunburn as it's perfect for locking in moisture and helping my shoulders heal when I've been bad about sunblock.
While not recommended for deep or puncture wounds (consult a doctor for anything but minor injuries) the customer testimonials are a hoot: “Dear Mr. Orton, I use your Bag Balm every day. It cures everything from childbirth to chilblains!”
Even Oprah recommends it!
*And, now that I've mentioned The Vermont Country Store, you should check them out, too. The farthest thing from contemporary boutique purveyors of all things wonderful, this place is chock full of things you've always needed - even if you didn't realize it. From health and beauty supplies to flannel nightgowns to cheese (!) you are sure to find gifts, large and small, for everyone on your list. Finally, they are the absolute go-to source for all things old fashioned and stock vast supplies of all of our childhood favorite candies. I can say from experience that I have been to their site and purchased holiday gifts for EVERYONE on my list in one fell swoop!
