HERBAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS Over the centuries, men and women have been using naturally derived products in their everyday beauty regimes. At present, beauty treatments have become mass produced; filled with chemicals, many of which I can't even pronounce. With a little effort, you can make your own beauty products at home, utilizing products naturally given to us by our Mother Earth. Contained in this article, are recipes taken from several sources, as well as my personal recipes. However, before introducing anything new to your face, hair or body, I suggest you perform a "spot" test first, using a small amount of the product and applying it to a small area. If you develop any allergies or rashes from any of these products, discontinue their use and consult a physician. Personal safety is of the utmost importance. HONEY FACIAL CLEANSER 2 tbl. liquid Castille soap 1/4 c. honey 1/4 c. Rosewater Mix ingredients and pour into bottle for use. Gently massage onto face and rinse with tepid water. Can be used for all skin types. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EMPRESS JOSEPHINES' CLEANSER 1/4 c. aloe vera gel 2 tbl. whole milk Mix ingredients and refrigerate (because of milk). This should stay fresh for 2 weeks. Gently massage onto face and rinse with tepid water. Can be used for all skin types. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLEANSING GRAINS 2 tbl. oatmeal 2 tbl. cornmeal 2 tbl. wheatgerm Mix together and store in airtight container. To use, mix 1 tsp. with 1 tsp. water. Massage onto skin and rinse with tepid water. To be used twice weekly. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ASTRINGENT FOR SENSITIVE SKIN 4 tbl. Rosewater 2 tbl. orange water 2 tbl. witch hazel Mix together and apply to skin with cotton ball, rinse with cool water. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPLE ASTRINGENT 1/4 c. apple juice 2 tbl. vodka 2 tbl. witch hazel Mix together and apply to skin with cotton ball, rinse with cool water. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HAIR RINSES To make, seep 1/4 c. herbs in 2 c. boiling water. Let seep for 20 minutes, strain herbs. Let cool and apply to hair as a final rinse. Chamomile - for light colored hair Sage - for medium colored hair Lavender - for dark colored hair BATH SACHET Combine herbs in a gauze cloth and tie, throw into warm bath. Relax and enjoy! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STIMULATING HERBS Basil, Bay, Mint, Calendula, Lemon Verbena, Pine, Rosemary, Sage -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOOTHING HERBS Chamomile, Hyssop, Jasmine, Lemon Balm, Mullein, Rose, Vervain, Violet -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HERBS FOR ACHING MUSCLES Bay, Juniper Berries, Mugwort, Oregano, Strawberry Leaves -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANTISEPTIC HERBS Eucalyptus, Sandalwood -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ASTRINGENT HERBS Lemon Grass, Mullein, Nasturtium, Periwinkle, Wintergreen, Yarrow -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HERBS FOR FOOTBATHS Burdock, Lavender, Sage, Wormwood, Mustard seed -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I have made and used these products myself, and recommend these "natural beauty products". I thank our loving Goddess for all of these wonderful gifts she has bestowed upon us. I hope all of you enjoy making and using these products as much as I have!