The recipes that follow are among my favorites. Most are my personal creations; a few have been enhanced by the creative suggestions of others. Many of these recipes came to me in those moments of inspiration when I was out among the flowers. Others I’ve labored long over to get the exact proportions and effects. And some of them were garnered from friends, who often took a simple suggestion I made and added the oh-so-perfect ingredient to create a product of excellence.
ROSE WATER
Although distilling fresh rose petals (Rosa spp.) generally produces rose water, the following method is simple and effective, and it ensures a perfect rose water every time. Be sure you use fresh roses that have just begun to open; they are at their prime and will yield the strongest water. The more fragrant the roses, the stronger the scent of the rose water. Using roses that have been sprayed with insecticides will result in the toxins being extracted into the water.
3 parts witch hazel extract, vodka, or gin
1 part distilled water
Fresh, organically grown roses or rose petals
Mix the witch hazel (or vodka or gin) with the distilled water. Place the fresh roses in a quart jar. Completely cover the roses with the alcohol mixture, adding enough extra that the alcohol mixture rises 2 to 3 inches above the flowers. Cover tightly and place in a warm, shaded area. Let the mixture sit for 2 to 3 weeks.
Strain out the roses and rebottle the water for use. Rose water does not need refrigeration, but storing it in a cool place will prolong its shelf life.
3 parts witch hazel extract, vodka, or gin
1 part distilled water
Fresh, organically grown roses or rose petals
Mix the witch hazel (or vodka or gin) with the distilled water. Place the fresh roses in a quart jar. Completely cover the roses with the alcohol mixture, adding enough extra that the alcohol mixture rises 2 to 3 inches above the flowers. Cover tightly and place in a warm, shaded area. Let the mixture sit for 2 to 3 weeks.
Strain out the roses and rebottle the water for use. Rose water does not need refrigeration, but storing it in a cool place will prolong its shelf life.
MIRACLE GRAINS
A perfect soap replacement, these cleansing grains are mild, nourishing, suitable for all skin types, and can be used daily. There are many items you can add to this basic formula, such as seaweed, vitamins A and E, and other combinations of herbs. Be creative! You may design a truly unique and wonderful formula personalized for your skin type.
You may wish to add a few drops of pure essential oils such as lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), rose, or lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) to enhance the scent and the effect of the grains.
2 cups white clay
1 cup finely ground oats
1/4 cup finely ground almonds
1/8 cup finely ground lavender
1/8 cup poppy seeds or finely ground blue corn, optional
1/8 cup finely ground roses
Combine all of the ingredients. Store the grains next to the sink in a glass container or in a spice jar with a shaker top. To use, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of the grains with water. Stir into a paste and gently massage onto the face. Rinse off with warm water.
You may wish to add a few drops of pure essential oils such as lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), rose, or lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) to enhance the scent and the effect of the grains.
2 cups white clay
1 cup finely ground oats
1/4 cup finely ground almonds
1/8 cup finely ground lavender
1/8 cup poppy seeds or finely ground blue corn, optional
1/8 cup finely ground roses
Combine all of the ingredients. Store the grains next to the sink in a glass container or in a spice jar with a shaker top. To use, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of the grains with water. Stir into a paste and gently massage onto the face. Rinse off with warm water.
HERBAL FACIAL STEAMS
Following are two of my favorite recipes for facial steams. To perform a facial steam, bring 2 to 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Toss in a healthy handful of herbs, cover, and let simmer for a couple of minutes. Then remove the pot from the heat and place it on a heatproof surface at a level that will enable you to comfortably sit and place your face over the pot. Leaning over the pot, drape a large, thick towel over your head and the pot, capturing the steaming herb water. It will get very hot under the towel. To regulate the heat, raise or lower your head or lift a corner of the towel to let in a little cool air. Steam for 5 to 8 minutes.
Steam for Dry to Normal Skin
3 parts comfrey leaf (Symphytum officinale)
2 parts calendula (Calendula officinalis)
2 parts chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
2 parts roses
1 part lavender
Combine the herbs, adjusting the amounts to suit your skin type. Store in an airtight glass bottle. Use as instructed above.
Steam for Normal to Oily Skin3 parts comfrey leaf
2 parts calendula
1 part raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)
1 part sage (Salvia officinalis)
1/4 part rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Combine the herbs, adjusting the amounts to suit your skin type. Store in an airtight glass bottle. Use as instructed above.
Steam for Dry to Normal Skin
3 parts comfrey leaf (Symphytum officinale)
2 parts calendula (Calendula officinalis)
2 parts chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
2 parts roses
1 part lavender
Combine the herbs, adjusting the amounts to suit your skin type. Store in an airtight glass bottle. Use as instructed above.
Steam for Normal to Oily Skin3 parts comfrey leaf
2 parts calendula
1 part raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)
1 part sage (Salvia officinalis)
1/4 part rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Combine the herbs, adjusting the amounts to suit your skin type. Store in an airtight glass bottle. Use as instructed above.
ASTRINGENTS
Astringents, also known as toners, are used to remove excess oil from the skin. They are usually applied after cleansing; they remove any residual cleanser and tone the skin, helping prepare it for moisturizing. While astringents are especially appropriate for oily skin, all types of skin can benefit from their pore-tightening effects.
THE QUEEN OF HUNGARY’S WATER
This wonderful astringent lotion has been hailed as the first herbal product ever produced and marketed. Legend has it that the early Gypsies formulated it and claimed it to be a cure-all. Whether or not it is I hardly know, but I do know that it is an excellent astringent for the face and a great rinse for dark hair.
This is one of the world’s finest cosmetic formulas. It combines gentle common herbs in a masterful way, it’s easy to make, and it’s a versatile formula that serves many purposes. The Gypsies used it as a hair rinse, mouthwash, headache remedy, aftershave, footbath, and who knows what else! I have seen this formula sold in department stores in exotic little bottles for a fancy price. You can make it for the cost of a few herbs and a bottle of vinegar.
6 parts lemon balm
4 parts chamomile
4 parts roses
3 parts calendula
3 parts comfrey leaf
1 part lemon peel
1 part rosemary
1 part sage
Vinegar to cover (apple cider or wine vinegar)
Rose water or witch hazel extract
Essential oil of lavender or rose (optional)
Place the herbs in a widemouthed jar. Fill the jar with enough vinegar that it rises an inch or two above the herb mixture. Cover tightly and let it sit in a warm spot for 2 to 3 weeks. Strain out the herbs. To each cup of herbal vinegar, add 2/3 to 1 cup of rose water or witch hazel. Add a drop or two of essential oil, if desired. Rebottle. This product does not need to be refrigerated and will keep indefinitely.
This is one of the world’s finest cosmetic formulas. It combines gentle common herbs in a masterful way, it’s easy to make, and it’s a versatile formula that serves many purposes. The Gypsies used it as a hair rinse, mouthwash, headache remedy, aftershave, footbath, and who knows what else! I have seen this formula sold in department stores in exotic little bottles for a fancy price. You can make it for the cost of a few herbs and a bottle of vinegar.
6 parts lemon balm
4 parts chamomile
4 parts roses
3 parts calendula
3 parts comfrey leaf
1 part lemon peel
1 part rosemary
1 part sage
Vinegar to cover (apple cider or wine vinegar)
Rose water or witch hazel extract
Essential oil of lavender or rose (optional)
Place the herbs in a widemouthed jar. Fill the jar with enough vinegar that it rises an inch or two above the herb mixture. Cover tightly and let it sit in a warm spot for 2 to 3 weeks. Strain out the herbs. To each cup of herbal vinegar, add 2/3 to 1 cup of rose water or witch hazel. Add a drop or two of essential oil, if desired. Rebottle. This product does not need to be refrigerated and will keep indefinitely.
PEPPERS FAVORITE FACIAL CREAM
The following recipe makes the most wonderful facial cream I have ever experienced.
The cream is rich with natural ingredients. Deeply moisturizing, it provides nourishment and moisture for the skin. And for the final stroke, it is relatively inexpensive to make. This basic formula, though excellent as it is, can be further embellished with your own creative spirit. There is plenty of room for creative input. Feel free. Although this recipe appears easy, it is also a bit challenging. You are attempting to combine water and oil; they don’t normally mix. Follow the recipe closely. If it doesn’t turn out right the first time, don’t be discouraged. Try again; the luscious cream is well worth your time and effort.
Waters
2/3 cup distilled water (or rose water)
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
1 or 2 drops essential oil of your choice
Vitamins A and E as desired
Oils
3/4 cup apricot, almond, or grapeseed oil
1/3 cup coconut oil or cocoa butter
1/4 teaspoon lanolin
1/2 to 1 ounce grated beeswax
Combine the waters in a glass measuring cup. Set aside. In a double boiler over low heat, combine the oils. Heat them just enough to melt. Pour the oils into a blender and let them cool to room temperature. The mixture should become thick, creamy, semisolid, and cream-colored. This cooling process can be hastened in the refrigerator, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become too hard. When the mixture has cooled, turn on the blender at its highest speed. In a slow, thin drizzle, pour the water mixture into the center vortex of the whirling oil mixture. When most of the water mixture has been added to the oils, listen to the blender and watch the cream. When the blender coughs and chokes and the cream looks thick and white, like buttercream frosting, turn off the blender. You can slowly add more water, beating it in by hand with a spoon, but don’t overbeat. The cream will thicken as it sets. Pour into cream or lotion jars and store in a cool location.
The cream is rich with natural ingredients. Deeply moisturizing, it provides nourishment and moisture for the skin. And for the final stroke, it is relatively inexpensive to make. This basic formula, though excellent as it is, can be further embellished with your own creative spirit. There is plenty of room for creative input. Feel free. Although this recipe appears easy, it is also a bit challenging. You are attempting to combine water and oil; they don’t normally mix. Follow the recipe closely. If it doesn’t turn out right the first time, don’t be discouraged. Try again; the luscious cream is well worth your time and effort.
Waters
2/3 cup distilled water (or rose water)
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
1 or 2 drops essential oil of your choice
Vitamins A and E as desired
Oils
3/4 cup apricot, almond, or grapeseed oil
1/3 cup coconut oil or cocoa butter
1/4 teaspoon lanolin
1/2 to 1 ounce grated beeswax
Combine the waters in a glass measuring cup. Set aside. In a double boiler over low heat, combine the oils. Heat them just enough to melt. Pour the oils into a blender and let them cool to room temperature. The mixture should become thick, creamy, semisolid, and cream-colored. This cooling process can be hastened in the refrigerator, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become too hard. When the mixture has cooled, turn on the blender at its highest speed. In a slow, thin drizzle, pour the water mixture into the center vortex of the whirling oil mixture. When most of the water mixture has been added to the oils, listen to the blender and watch the cream. When the blender coughs and chokes and the cream looks thick and white, like buttercream frosting, turn off the blender. You can slowly add more water, beating it in by hand with a spoon, but don’t overbeat. The cream will thicken as it sets. Pour into cream or lotion jars and store in a cool location.
Regular skin-care routine
Follow this skin-care routine for beautiful skin.Daily
Cleanse with cleansing grains.
Close pores with an astringent.
Massage in a light cream.
Finish with a light mist of rose water or an astringent.Weekly
Use a honey or clay mask suitable for your skin type.Monthly
Treat yourself and a friend! Follow the entire five-step program that follows for radiant skin.
This treatment takes about forty-five marvelous minutes and, for best results, should be done at least once a month. By following this simple, inexpensive treatment, you can be assured of healthier, glowing skin within two to three months.
A five-step skin-care program for perfect skin
Step One: Miracle Grains
Lightly cleanse your face and neck with Miracle Grains (see recipe on page 37). Use the grains to gently massage and stimulate the skin. The grains will massage off dry, dead skin, increase circulation to the facial surface, and provide a nourishing “meal” for your face. Rinse off the grains with warm water.
Step Two: Herbal Facial SteamSelect an herbal facial steam that’s best for your skin type (see recipes on page 37). A facial steam is the best possible way for deep pore cleansing, and each of the herbs used is rich in nutrients that nourish and tone the skin. The aromatic oils of the plants are released by the heat and are absorbed by the skin. And best of all, it feels so good!
Immediately after you complete your facial steam, rinse your face with cold water and gently pat with The Queen of Hungary’s Water (see recipe on page 38) or Rose Water (see recipe on page 37). Gently pat dry. Your face will feel smooth and will glow with radiance.
Step Three: Facial
Facials are excellent for stimulating circulation to the skin by drawing fresh blood to the surface. They promote deep pore cleansing and help heal blemishes and acne. Facials also help tone and firm the skin.
There are several kinds of facials available. My favorites are made with a base of cosmetic clay, which is particularly suitable when you want a drawing, firming type of facial. Clay is very high in minerals and nourishes the skin. If choosing a clay facial, mix it with just enough water to make a nice paste. The thicker the clay/water mix, the more drying the facial. Apply, and leave on until completely dry. It is tempting to want to rinse it off beforehand, especially as it starts to tighten, but you will not receive the full benefits from a clay facial if you rinse it off before it’s completely dry.
For dry skin, choose a white cosmetic-grade clay. White clay, though lightly drawing, is very gentle to the skin. For a more nourishing facial, mix with yogurt or avocado, or both. For oily skin, choose green, red, or yellow clay. These clays are much more drying than the white variety. They also are very high in minerals and are excellent for problematic, blemish-prone skin. In natural therapeutics, these clays are often used for soothing poison oak and poison ivy, bee stings, and insect bites.
Honey, too, has its magic and is another of my favorite facials. It is a marvelous cosmetic aid for the skin. A natural humectant, honey both moisturizes and cleanses the skin. Applying a honey pack to your face is a bit messy, but the results are well worth the trouble. For all skin types, honey makes an excellent facial pack. It draws fresh blood to the surface of the skin, removes impurities, and smoothes and softens.
If you choose to use the honey pack, apply a fingerful of honey to skin that is completely dry. It won’t work well if the skin is wet or damp. Be sure all of your hair is out of reach; it gets very sticky when full of honey! Gently massage, pat, or rub honey into the skin. Let your senses tell you what strokes to use. I usually enjoy a rather vigorous rubbing and patting motion, but others prefer a gentle stretching and light patting. Rinse the honey off with warm water. It comes off very easily, but be sure to rinse off completely or you will feel sticky for the rest of the day. The fresh flow of blood brought to the surface of the skin by the honey facial will create a deep, warm, lasting glow.
Step Four: Tonic Astringents
When the facial is completely dry, rinse off with warm water. Be gentle to your skin while rinsing off the facial material. Honey will rinse off easily and quickly, but clay may take a bit more effort. Use soft, circular motions. Massage your skin; do not scrub it. Immediately after rinsing the facial, apply an astringent preparation to tone and close the pores. Use a cotton pad for application, or mist the skin with a spritzer bottle. For dry skin, use Rose Water (see recipe on page 37), a very light, gentle astringent. For normal to oily skin, use The Queen of Hungary’s Water (see recipe on page 38).
Step Five: Massage and Cream
The finishing touch is a light, delicate facial massage using Rosemary’s Perfect Cream (see recipe on page 38). This is usually everyone’s favorite part, especially when someone else does it for you and you can just sit back and enjoy.
Spread a small amount of cream on your palms and gently circle the outer edges of the face, always stroking upward and outward. Follow the contours of the face, using your fingers to trace the structure. You can use gentle motions, circular motions, and sweeping motions up and away from the face.
Cleanse with cleansing grains.
Close pores with an astringent.
Massage in a light cream.
Finish with a light mist of rose water or an astringent.Weekly
Use a honey or clay mask suitable for your skin type.Monthly
Treat yourself and a friend! Follow the entire five-step program that follows for radiant skin.
This treatment takes about forty-five marvelous minutes and, for best results, should be done at least once a month. By following this simple, inexpensive treatment, you can be assured of healthier, glowing skin within two to three months.
A five-step skin-care program for perfect skin
Step One: Miracle Grains
Lightly cleanse your face and neck with Miracle Grains (see recipe on page 37). Use the grains to gently massage and stimulate the skin. The grains will massage off dry, dead skin, increase circulation to the facial surface, and provide a nourishing “meal” for your face. Rinse off the grains with warm water.
Step Two: Herbal Facial SteamSelect an herbal facial steam that’s best for your skin type (see recipes on page 37). A facial steam is the best possible way for deep pore cleansing, and each of the herbs used is rich in nutrients that nourish and tone the skin. The aromatic oils of the plants are released by the heat and are absorbed by the skin. And best of all, it feels so good!
Immediately after you complete your facial steam, rinse your face with cold water and gently pat with The Queen of Hungary’s Water (see recipe on page 38) or Rose Water (see recipe on page 37). Gently pat dry. Your face will feel smooth and will glow with radiance.
Step Three: Facial
Facials are excellent for stimulating circulation to the skin by drawing fresh blood to the surface. They promote deep pore cleansing and help heal blemishes and acne. Facials also help tone and firm the skin.
There are several kinds of facials available. My favorites are made with a base of cosmetic clay, which is particularly suitable when you want a drawing, firming type of facial. Clay is very high in minerals and nourishes the skin. If choosing a clay facial, mix it with just enough water to make a nice paste. The thicker the clay/water mix, the more drying the facial. Apply, and leave on until completely dry. It is tempting to want to rinse it off beforehand, especially as it starts to tighten, but you will not receive the full benefits from a clay facial if you rinse it off before it’s completely dry.
For dry skin, choose a white cosmetic-grade clay. White clay, though lightly drawing, is very gentle to the skin. For a more nourishing facial, mix with yogurt or avocado, or both. For oily skin, choose green, red, or yellow clay. These clays are much more drying than the white variety. They also are very high in minerals and are excellent for problematic, blemish-prone skin. In natural therapeutics, these clays are often used for soothing poison oak and poison ivy, bee stings, and insect bites.
Honey, too, has its magic and is another of my favorite facials. It is a marvelous cosmetic aid for the skin. A natural humectant, honey both moisturizes and cleanses the skin. Applying a honey pack to your face is a bit messy, but the results are well worth the trouble. For all skin types, honey makes an excellent facial pack. It draws fresh blood to the surface of the skin, removes impurities, and smoothes and softens.
If you choose to use the honey pack, apply a fingerful of honey to skin that is completely dry. It won’t work well if the skin is wet or damp. Be sure all of your hair is out of reach; it gets very sticky when full of honey! Gently massage, pat, or rub honey into the skin. Let your senses tell you what strokes to use. I usually enjoy a rather vigorous rubbing and patting motion, but others prefer a gentle stretching and light patting. Rinse the honey off with warm water. It comes off very easily, but be sure to rinse off completely or you will feel sticky for the rest of the day. The fresh flow of blood brought to the surface of the skin by the honey facial will create a deep, warm, lasting glow.
Step Four: Tonic Astringents
When the facial is completely dry, rinse off with warm water. Be gentle to your skin while rinsing off the facial material. Honey will rinse off easily and quickly, but clay may take a bit more effort. Use soft, circular motions. Massage your skin; do not scrub it. Immediately after rinsing the facial, apply an astringent preparation to tone and close the pores. Use a cotton pad for application, or mist the skin with a spritzer bottle. For dry skin, use Rose Water (see recipe on page 37), a very light, gentle astringent. For normal to oily skin, use The Queen of Hungary’s Water (see recipe on page 38).
Step Five: Massage and Cream
The finishing touch is a light, delicate facial massage using Rosemary’s Perfect Cream (see recipe on page 38). This is usually everyone’s favorite part, especially when someone else does it for you and you can just sit back and enjoy.
Spread a small amount of cream on your palms and gently circle the outer edges of the face, always stroking upward and outward. Follow the contours of the face, using your fingers to trace the structure. You can use gentle motions, circular motions, and sweeping motions up and away from the face.
6 Herbal Beauty ProductsUnder the sultry summer sun, being beautiful takes some pampering. This is the season of natural beauty, when we want smooth, healthy, glowing skin, when we want to be cool and carefree, when we want to be outdoors for hours, tending our gardens or off on adventures, always feeling comfortable and looking our best. The reality is that at this time of year, hair gets messy, skin appears oily, lips chap and dry out, and we perspire. It’s easy to wilt in summer’s heat and humidity, no matter how we wish we looked.
Over the years, I’ve developed many recipes for simple beauty products that are easily made from common ingredients, including the fresh herbs and flowers that are in such abundant supply in summer. Here are several recipes that help me look and feel my best, even as the thermometer climbs beyond the comfortable. They’re fun to make and use, and some are so easy they can be put together in a matter of minutes.
Warm weather stimulates oil glands to become more active and makes people perspire more, and because we spend more time outside, we get dirtier than in cooler seasons. Frequent showers help, as does washing our face more often. I love the feel of a good mask to deep-clean facial skin and help it retain moisture. My Rose Hip Mask is well suited to most skin types; I use it about twice a week in the summer. I also use a mildly astringent Parsley and Mint Toner daily. I carry it with me in a small spritzer bottle that’s easy to pull out for a quick and refreshing pick-me-up—a lifesaver on a hot day.
When the heat and humidity increase, stay cool and comfortable by dressing in loose, natural-fiber clothing, and try a dusting of Cooling Peppermint Body Powder. For an indulgent, energizing feeling, use a big, fluffy powder puff to apply the silky powder after bathing.
Keep your hair under control and out of the way with a simple summer do such as the classic French braid. Avoid styling products that contain alcohol, which can further dry out hair that’s already been exposed to sun, wind, salt water, and chlorine. Instead, choose water-based products, or make a natural Summer Braid Gel with flaxseed—it’s perfect for holding hair in place without turning it dry and brittle.
A protective slick of Aloe Vera Lip Gloss soothes, smooths, and keeps lips from drying and cracking. Then splash on a fresh, clean scent with Herbal Garden Cologne. Creating cologne with the fragrances of your garden makes it uniquely your own. Lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, mint, rose, or other favorite flowers and leaves, picked fresh in the cool of the morning when their essential oils are most potent, give this cologne a light, fresh scent that captures the essence of a summer garden. The vodka base is a grain alcohol that is gentle to all skin types.
I use herbs and flowers fresh from my garden as well as stocking up at Mountain Rose Herbs. I preserve lots for use all year long, hanging them in small bundles in an airy place for about a week to dry and then storing them in jars with tight-fitting lids in a cool, dry, dark spot. The recipes below can be made with fresh or dried material, substituting half as much dried for the fresh.
Having a stockpile of dried ingredients makes it easy to make these recipes up as gifts. I put the cologne in delicate, old-fashioned bottles that I find at garage sales and flea markets and sometimes add a lacy drape of dried flowers and raffia around the necks. I like fashioning a unique cork stopper by first cutting the cork even with the top of the bottle, then glueing in place an odd rock or attractive seashell to serve as a knob. Friends appreciate anything homemade but especially when it comes from the garden.
Summer is here to enjoy! Take the time to pamper yourself. You’ll feel healthier, happier—maybe even more beautiful.
Summer Braid Gel
Keep your hair in place with this simple styling gel made from the seeds of flax (Linum usitatissimum), the blue-flowered annual plant whose stalks yield fiber for linen cloth. The small, shiny brown seeds are the source of linseed oil. When soaked in water, they form a gel that gives hair extra body and lift.
3 tablespoons flaxseed
1 cup water
Mix the flaxseed and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Off heat, let the mixture stand for 15 minutes. Strain out the seeds and allow the jellylike liquid to cool completely. Pour the gel into a clean container and cap it. The mixture will continue to thicken if left uncovered.
Apply a small amount to wet or dry hair as you would any other styling gel.
Herbal Garden Cologne
This light fragrance is perfect for warm summer days and nights. The recipe can be altered and experimented with to match your mood or the contents of your garden.
2 cups inexpensive vodka
Zest of 1 small lemon
½ cup fresh lavender flowers, stems, and leaves
½ cup fresh chamomile flower heads
¼ cup fresh mint leaves
¼ cup fresh lemon balm leaves
¼ cup fresh fragrant rose petals
1/8 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Mix all the ingredients in a glass or ceramic container and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Place in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking occasionally, then strain the mixture and discard the solids.
Test the scent. For a stronger scent, add fresh herbs, steep again, strain, and test again. Pour the cologne into a pretty bottle with a tight-fitting lid or spray top.
Splash or spray it onto your skin as you would any other cologne.
Parsley Mint Toner
Parsley, long esteemed as a mouth freshener, also makes a wonderful, soothing skin toner, suitable for all complexion types. Menthol in the mint leaves helps tighten pores. This toner will whisk away surface dirt and oils, leaving your skin glowing.
¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
¼ cup fresh mint leaves
1 cup boiling water
½ cup witch hazel extract
Place the parsley and mint leaves in a glass or ceramic bowl. Pour the boiling water over the leaves and let the mixture stand for 20 minutes, or until cool.
Strain the mixture and discard the solids. Combine the parsley-mint solution with the witch hazel and pour into a clean bottle with a tight-fitting lid or stopper.
Spritz it on your skin or dab it on with a cotton ball or pad.
Aloe Vera Lip Gloss
This light lip gloss will protect, shine and moisturize your lips. Aloe vera gel’s high moisture content is very soothing. If you have an aloe plant, simply split one of the leaves lengthwise and squeeze out some of the clear gel.
• 1 teaspoon fresh aloe vera gel
• ½ teaspoon coconut oil
• ⅛ teaspoon vitamin E oil
Mix together aloe and oils; stir well. Pour into a small, clean container.
Rose Hip Mask
Rose hips are called “vitamin roses” in Russia, where they are harvested for use in soups, teas, and jellies. They contain far more vitamin C than oranges and are also rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin A. This facial treatment of pureed rose hips and plain yogurt will leave your skin soft and smooth. Dried rose hips are available in many grocery and health-food stores. Simply soak them in some warm water for 15 to 20 minutes to rehydrate them and then follow the recipe as written.
10 fresh rose hips from unsprayed shrubs
Water
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
Remove the stalk and blossom ends of the rose hips. Rinse the hips, place them in a small saucepan, and cover them with water. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes. Drain, then pour the rose hips into a blender or food processor and puree. Let it cool, then mix with the yogurt.
Spread the mask on your face and neck. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water and pat your skin dry. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for as long as 2 weeks.
Cooling Peppermint Body Powder
The fresh, clean scent of peppermint is an instant energizer. Mixing the essential oil into cornstarch makes a refreshing body powder.
½ teaspoon peppermint oil
1 cup cornstarch
Place the peppermint oil and cornstarch in a plastic zip-close bag or a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake the container well to combine the ingredients. Store the scented powder in a clean container with a lid. A large saltshaker makes a good dispenser.
Shake the powder on clean, dry skin or apply it with a powder puff.
Botanical Perfumes & Colognes
Create your own perfumes and colognes from natural ingredients! Not only do they smell delightful, but many botanicals have therapeutic properties that are grounding, energizing, relaxing, uplifting, and balancing. This article includes recipes for Orange Spice Cologne, Woodland Perfume, Summer Perfume, Citrus Basil Cologne, Fresh Floral Cologne, and Refreshing Perfume.
Did you know that most perfumes and colognes are manufactured using synthetic chemicals, even petroleum? Many of these ingredients do not need to be listed on the labels, but are known allergens, hormone disruptors, and irritants. The majority have never even been studied for cosmetic use! This is pretty scary, but the good news is that we can easily create our own perfumes and colognes from natural ingredients. Not only are they safer, but many botanicals also have therapeutic properties that are grounding, energizing, relaxing, stimulating, uplifting, and balancing. True, these fragrances will need to be reapplied more often than their chemical counterparts, but they are much better for our minds and bodies.
If in need of a little sprucing up during the day, carry a small bottle of your favorite aroma in your purse. You can even make special formulas like a relaxing blend for stressful situations or something energizing for afternoons that drag. The options are endless! Below are several blends that I have played around with, but feel free to concoct your own special recipes.
Orange Spice Cologne
A warming, spicy, and exotic blend that will lift spirits, invigorate senses, alleviate stress, mental fatigue, and tension. The aroma is delightfully reminiscent of Chai tea.
- 1 organic Cinnamon Stick
- 25 organic whole Cardamom Pods
- 15 organic Cloves
- 1 organic Vanilla Bean, cut into small pieces
- 1 fresh organic Orange peel, zest only
- 8 oz Vodka
Crush spices in a mortar and pestle. Combine with Vanilla Bean pieces, Orange peel zest, and vodka in a glass mason jar. Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain the spices and pour the infused liquid into a glass bottle with a mister top. Simply add more spices if you desire a stronger cologne.
Citrus Cologne
A fresh citrus scent with herbal notes, this uplifting aroma is stimulating and revitalizing.
- 1 fresh organic Lemon peel, zest only
- 1 fresh organic Grapefruit peel, zest only
- Organic Basil Essential oil (or other essential oil of choice, examples: Chamomile, Lavender, or Peppermint)
- 8 oz Vodka
Combine Lemon and Grapefruit peel zest in a glass mason jar and add vodka until the liquid rises above the peel zest by at least 1 inch. Â Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain out the citrus peels and pour the resulting cologne into a glass bottle with a mister top. Add 2 drops of essential oil for each tablespoon of finished cologne. Add more essential oil if you desire a stronger cologne.
Fresh Floral Cologne
This relaxing cologne can be made with fresh blossoms straight from the garden! The flowers help ease depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, hyperactivity, irritability, tension, and exhaustion.
- Fresh or dried organic Rose Petals
- Fresh or dried organic Chamomile flowers
- Fresh or dried organic Lavender flowers
- Vodka
Combine all ingredients in a glass mason jar and add vodka until the liquid rises above the flowers by at least 1 inch. Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain the flowers and pour the resulting cologne into a glass bottle with a mister top.
Woodland Perfume
I love this blend! It truly smells like the forest. Uplifting, grounding, meditative, and comforting.
- 4 drops Spruce essential oil
- 2 drops organic Fir Needle essential oil
- 2 drops organic Rosewood essential oil
- 1 drop organic Vetiver essential oil
- 1 drop organic Bergamot essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil, and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Sweet Summer Perfume
A relaxing and warming floral blend. Especially useful during times of stress, anxiety, irritability, or depression.
- 10 drops organic Lavender essential oil
- 5 drops organic Chamomile essential oil
- 4 drops organic Cardamom essential oil
- 1 drop organic Cedarwood essential oil
- 1 drop organic Geranium (Rose) essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle, and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Refreshing Perfume
Rejuvenating, uplifting, energizing, and stimulating. This blend is good for mental clarity, lack of focus, and fatigue.
- 13 drops organic Peppermint essential oil
- 13 drops organic Rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops organic Lemon essential oil
- 5 drops organic Sage essential oil
- 5 drops organic Juniper Berry essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Amber Resin
The smell of Amber is incredible - alluring, earthy, and warming. Created from a mixture of aromatic resins and oils native to India, it is a simple way to adorn yourself with a natural fragrance. Simply rub the resin chunks directly onto skin for a scent that will linger for hours.
Did you know that most perfumes and colognes are manufactured using synthetic chemicals, even petroleum? Many of these ingredients do not need to be listed on the labels, but are known allergens, hormone disruptors, and irritants. The majority have never even been studied for cosmetic use! This is pretty scary, but the good news is that we can easily create our own perfumes and colognes from natural ingredients. Not only are they safer, but many botanicals also have therapeutic properties that are grounding, energizing, relaxing, stimulating, uplifting, and balancing. True, these fragrances will need to be reapplied more often than their chemical counterparts, but they are much better for our minds and bodies.
If in need of a little sprucing up during the day, carry a small bottle of your favorite aroma in your purse. You can even make special formulas like a relaxing blend for stressful situations or something energizing for afternoons that drag. The options are endless! Below are several blends that I have played around with, but feel free to concoct your own special recipes.
Orange Spice Cologne
A warming, spicy, and exotic blend that will lift spirits, invigorate senses, alleviate stress, mental fatigue, and tension. The aroma is delightfully reminiscent of Chai tea.
- 1 organic Cinnamon Stick
- 25 organic whole Cardamom Pods
- 15 organic Cloves
- 1 organic Vanilla Bean, cut into small pieces
- 1 fresh organic Orange peel, zest only
- 8 oz Vodka
Crush spices in a mortar and pestle. Combine with Vanilla Bean pieces, Orange peel zest, and vodka in a glass mason jar. Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain the spices and pour the infused liquid into a glass bottle with a mister top. Simply add more spices if you desire a stronger cologne.
Citrus Cologne
A fresh citrus scent with herbal notes, this uplifting aroma is stimulating and revitalizing.
- 1 fresh organic Lemon peel, zest only
- 1 fresh organic Grapefruit peel, zest only
- Organic Basil Essential oil (or other essential oil of choice, examples: Chamomile, Lavender, or Peppermint)
- 8 oz Vodka
Combine Lemon and Grapefruit peel zest in a glass mason jar and add vodka until the liquid rises above the peel zest by at least 1 inch. Â Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain out the citrus peels and pour the resulting cologne into a glass bottle with a mister top. Add 2 drops of essential oil for each tablespoon of finished cologne. Add more essential oil if you desire a stronger cologne.
Fresh Floral Cologne
This relaxing cologne can be made with fresh blossoms straight from the garden! The flowers help ease depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, hyperactivity, irritability, tension, and exhaustion.
- Fresh or dried organic Rose Petals
- Fresh or dried organic Chamomile flowers
- Fresh or dried organic Lavender flowers
- Vodka
Combine all ingredients in a glass mason jar and add vodka until the liquid rises above the flowers by at least 1 inch. Cap tightly and shake once or more per day. After 2-6 weeks, strain the flowers and pour the resulting cologne into a glass bottle with a mister top.
Woodland Perfume
I love this blend! It truly smells like the forest. Uplifting, grounding, meditative, and comforting.
- 4 drops Spruce essential oil
- 2 drops organic Fir Needle essential oil
- 2 drops organic Rosewood essential oil
- 1 drop organic Vetiver essential oil
- 1 drop organic Bergamot essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil, and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Sweet Summer Perfume
A relaxing and warming floral blend. Especially useful during times of stress, anxiety, irritability, or depression.
- 10 drops organic Lavender essential oil
- 5 drops organic Chamomile essential oil
- 4 drops organic Cardamom essential oil
- 1 drop organic Cedarwood essential oil
- 1 drop organic Geranium (Rose) essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle, and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Refreshing Perfume
Rejuvenating, uplifting, energizing, and stimulating. This blend is good for mental clarity, lack of focus, and fatigue.
- 13 drops organic Peppermint essential oil
- 13 drops organic Rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops organic Lemon essential oil
- 5 drops organic Sage essential oil
- 5 drops organic Juniper Berry essential oil
- 1 tsp organic Jojoba Oil
Drip all essential oils into a glass bottle and roll between palms to evenly mix the oils. Add Jojoba oil and roll again. Add additional essential oils if you desire a stronger perfume.
Amber Resin
The smell of Amber is incredible - alluring, earthy, and warming. Created from a mixture of aromatic resins and oils native to India, it is a simple way to adorn yourself with a natural fragrance. Simply rub the resin chunks directly onto skin for a scent that will linger for hours.
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