Ancient Relief for Modern Itch: The Power of Tallow and Pine Tar

Let’s explore two time-honored ingredients — grass-fed tallow and pine tar — and how they work together to soothe irritated, reactive skin.

Tallow: Deep Nourishment from Nature

Tallow, rendered from suet (the fat surrounding the kidneys of sheep or cows), is rich in skin-loving nutrients:

Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K: These support skin regeneration, reduce inflammation, and promote barrier repair.

Skin-compatible fatty acids: Tallow mimics our skin’s natural oils, making it deeply moisturizing and non-irritating — ideal for sensitive or compromised skin.

Gentle protection: Unlike plant oils that can oxidize quickly, tallow is stable and protective, helping to seal in moisture without clogging pores.

For those with pruritus, tallow offers a calming base that hydrates and restores — especially when sourced from clean, grass-fed animals like we use here in Aotearoa.

Pine Tar: Earth’s Ancient Anti-Itch Ally

Pine tar has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions marked by inflammation and itch. Its benefits include:

Anti-inflammatory properties: Pine tar helps reduce redness and swelling, making it ideal for flare-ups.

Anti-itch relief: It calms the nerve endings responsible for itch, offering fast, natural comfort.

Antiseptic action: Pine tar can be safely used on broken or weeping skin, helping prevent infection during healing.

When blended with tallow, pine tar enhances the balm’s ability to soothe and protect — especially for those managing chronic conditions or medication-related skin sensitivity.

Why Our Balm Works

Our Pine Tar & Tallow Balm is crafted in small batches using clean NZ grass-fed tallow and kiln-burned pine tar. It’s:

Free from perfumes, preservatives, and synthetic irritants

Designed for sensitive, reactive skin

Loved by those navigating eczema, psoriasis, and medication-induced pruritus

Whether you’re returning to old ways or discovering them for the first time, this balm offers a gentle, effective path to comfort.

Final Thoughts

Pruritus doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. With the right ingredients — ones that honor tradition and support the skin’s barrier — relief is possible. Our Tallow & Pine Tar Balm is more than a remedy its a return to tradition and what works.

If you’re curious to try this soothing blend, explore our and feel the difference for yourself. Shop Tallow Balms & 100% Tallow Soap