Does Lard Have Healing Properties? An In-Depth Look

For centuries, cultures worldwide used rendered animal fats like lard for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. But does lard have healing properties that stand up to modern scrutiny? A closer look at its unique composition reveals potential benefits for skin health.

Quick Summary

The article examines the historical context and scientific evidence supporting lard's use for skin health, highlighting its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and nourishing effects.

Key Points

• Rich in Fatty Acids: Lard contains oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, which are highly compatible with human skin for deep moisturization.

• Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Studies have identified anti-inflammatory compounds in lard, such as 5-dodecanolide, that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.

• Source of Skin-Boosting Vitamins: High-quality, pasture-raised lard is a natural source of fat-soluble vitamins D and E, which promote skin cell regeneration and provide antioxidant protection.

• Effective for Skin Conditions: Historically and anecdotally, lard has been used to calm conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and chapped skin due to its barrier-supporting and soothing properties.

• Natural and Sustainable Option: As a byproduct of the meat industry, ethically sourced lard is a natural, biodegradable alternative to synthetic, petroleum-based moisturizers.

The Historical Use of Lard in Medicine and Skincare

Long before modern laboratories formulated complex moisturizers, lard was a staple in household medicine cabinets and beauty routines. Rendered from pig fat, it was readily available and valued for its multi-purpose utility. On farms and frontiers across Europe and early America, it was blended with herbs or beeswax to create salves and balms used for everything from soothing burns and rashes to softening dry, chapped skin. Traditional use cases included treating boils, easing skin inflammation, and creating ointments for sore joints. This practical application reflected a deep, generational knowledge of its emollient properties. Lard’s reputation began to fade in the 20th century with the rise of manufactured, petroleum-based alternatives, but a modern movement towards natural ingredients has sparked a renewed interest in this time-tested remedy.

The Science Behind Lard's Skincare Benefits

Scientific studies and dermatological observations have begun to explain why lard was so effective in traditional remedies. Its efficacy is rooted in its chemical composition and unique compatibility with human skin.

A Bioavailable Nutrient-Rich Profile

Lard's fatty acid profile is remarkably similar to the natural oils found in human skin, making it highly compatible and easily absorbed. It contains a beneficial blend of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins:

• Oleic Acid (Omega-9): A monounsaturated fat that penetrates the skin deeply to provide excellent moisture retention and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Palmitic Acid (Saturated): Supports the skin's natural lipid barrier, preventing moisture loss and maintaining elasticity.
• Stearic Acid (Saturated): Acts as an emollient, softening the skin and providing a smooth texture.
• Vitamin D: Pasture-raised pigs store significant amounts of Vitamin D in their fat from sun exposure. This vitamin is essential for skin cell regeneration and collagen production.
• Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that helps protect skin from free-radical damage and promotes healing processes, which can help minimize scars.
• Other Omega Fatty Acids: Contains smaller amounts of Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are also important for skin hydration and anti-inflammatory functions.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Research, including studies published in journals like Nutrients, has confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of compounds found in lard. One study highlighted 5-dodecanolide, isolated from pig lard, as a molecule with powerful anti-inflammatory potential. This provides a scientific basis for its traditional use in soothing inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. For people with sensitive skin, lard's gentle nature and low comedogenic rating (1-2) can be beneficial without clogging pores.

Lard vs. Other Common Ointments for Healing

Comparing lard with other popular topical treatments highlights its specific advantages for certain applications.

Feature	Lard (Pasture-Raised)	Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum)	Beef Tallow	Shea Butter
Composition	Natural fat, fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E	Petroleum-based, synthetic waxes and oils	Natural fat, vitamins A, D, K	Plant-based fat, rich in vitamins A, E
Healing Properties	Anti-inflammatory, moisturizes, promotes regeneration	Creates a protective barrier; non-absorbent	Moisturizing, protective, rich in nutrients	Deeply moisturizing, soothing, anti-inflammatory
Absorption	Readily absorbed by human skin	Sits on the skin's surface, little absorption	Absorbs well, but can be heavier	Absorbs moderately, can feel rich or heavy
Comedogenic Rating	Low (1-2), unlikely to clog pores	Varies, but can be occlusive	Low, similar to lard	Varies by source, generally low
Best For	Dryness, chapped lips, eczema, soothing inflammation	Creating a barrier on minor cuts, scrapes, diaper rash	Extremely dry skin, thick salves	Intense moisturization, scar reduction

Ethical Sourcing and Preparation for Efficacy

To maximize the healing and nutritive benefits, the quality and source of the lard are paramount.

What to Look For

• Pasture-Raised: Lard from pigs that have regular sun exposure is significantly higher in Vitamin D.
• Proper Rendering: High-quality, cleanly rendered lard is odorless and integrates seamlessly into skincare products.
• Freshness: Ensure the product is from a reputable source that handles it carefully to prevent rancidity.

Preparation and DIY Usage

Creating your own lard-based salves or moisturizers is straightforward. Many recipes combine properly rendered lard with complementary ingredients like beeswax for texture or essential oils for scent and added therapeutic benefits. A simple DIY approach involves gently melting and mixing ingredients to create a nourishing balm for problem areas.

Conclusion

While the concept of using lard for skin may seem unconventional today, its rich history and growing body of scientific support highlight its potent healing properties. Its compatibility with human skin, anti-inflammatory compounds, and nourishing fatty acid and vitamin content make it a powerful natural option for addressing dry, irritated, and inflamed skin conditions. For those exploring traditional or natural skincare alternatives, high-quality, properly sourced lard offers a promising and historically proven solution. For further reading on the anti-inflammatory effects of lard, see the study by Capó et al. in Nutrients.

Disclaimers and Recommendations

• This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent skin issues.
• Conduct a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions before applying widely.

References

• Capó, X., Martorell, M., Tur, J.A., Sureda, A., & Pons, A. (2021). 5-Dodecanolide, a Compound Isolated from Pig Lard, Presents Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Nutrients, 13(12), 4381.
• Kinnard Homestead. (2025). The Complete Guide to Lard.
• Gaia Uncovered. (2024). Lard for Skin: The Unexpected Skincare Secret.
• JAMA Dermatology. (1937). Lard versus petrolatum in ointments and pastes.
• Yorkie Acres Farm. (2020). This Little Piggy: The Magic of Lard for Skincare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lard cure eczema or psoriasis?

While lard contains anti-inflammatory properties and can effectively moisturize the skin, it is not a cure for chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It may help soothe symptoms and manage flare-ups, but it should be used in consultation with a dermatologist.

Is lard the same as pork tallow?

Yes, for skincare purposes, the terms are often used interchangeably, although 'tallow' more commonly refers to rendered beef or mutton fat. The fat from pigs is specifically called lard and has a different fatty acid profile and texture.

Will applying lard on my face clog my pores?

Properly rendered, high-quality lard has a low comedogenic rating (1-2), meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most people. Its composition is very similar to human skin's natural sebum, allowing for good absorption without heavy greasiness.

Does lard for skincare have a strong odor?

No. When properly rendered and purified, high-quality lard has a very mild or neutral scent. Any remaining odor can be masked by adding essential oils or herbs.

How can I find high-quality lard for skincare?

Look for lard sourced from pasture-raised pigs, as it will have a higher concentration of beneficial vitamins like Vitamin D. Many small farms and artisanal companies offer high-quality, ethically sourced lard specifically for skincare.

How does lard compare to petroleum jelly for skin?

Lard is a natural, nutrient-dense moisturizer that is absorbed by the skin, providing healing benefits. Petroleum jelly, a synthetic product, is occlusive and sits on top of the skin to create a barrier, preventing moisture loss but offering no nutritive benefits.

Can I use lard on sunburns?

Based on historical accounts and anecdotal evidence, many have used lard to soothe and aid the healing of sunburns. Its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties can help calm irritated skin.