You can make your own all-natural beauty- and personal-care products that rely on the wonderful power of plants—from cleanser to lipstick to body butter, from soap and shampoo to shaving cream and deodorant. These preparations contain pure ingredients that enhance your health and feed and nourish your skin. Treat yourself and care for the environment at the same time.
Cleopatra’s Cleanser
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Great for makeup removal. This is based on a recipe used by Cleopatra—she wouldn’t have had grapefruit seed extract, but she would have had donkey milk …
INGREDIENTS
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp. olive oil
8 tsp. aloe vera gel
2 tbsp. rosewater
4 drops rose essential oil
2 drops grapefruit seed extract
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Whisk the olive oil into the aloe vera. Continue whisking while you gradually add the rosewater. Add the rose essential oil and grapefruit seed extract and whisk well. Pour or spoon into a jar.
Massage into your face and neck twice daily. Either wash off with a facecloth (then tone and moisturize) or remove with cotton balls (then it will act as a moisturizer, too).
Mint Chocolate Face Pack
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Deeply cleansing, like all face masks, and really plenty of fun. It smells divine—almost good enough to eat.
INGREDIENTS
11/2 tbsp. raw cocoa powder
1 tbsp. white kaolin clay powder
1/2 cup dried peppermint leaves
up to 1/4 cup coconut oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 1 cup.
Keeps up to 6 months in a jar.
METHOD
Mix the dry ingredients together. Gradually add the oil until you have a thick paste.
Apply to cleansed skin and then keep on for 15–20 minutes. Wash off well and moisturize.
— Variation —
YOU CAN SUBSTITUTE COCONUT MILK FOR THE COCONUT OIL AND REPLACE DRIED HERBS WITH THE SAME QUANTITY OF FRESH IF YOU WILL BE USING IT IMMEDIATELY.
Soothing Face Mask
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Suitable for all skin types, especially dry and irritated. These quantities will give you 2 applications—or share with a friend.
INGREDIENTS
3 tbsp. white kaolin clay powder
11/2 tbsp. milk powder
Essential oils:
1 drop frankincense
1 drop chamomile
1 tsp. lavender water (possibly more)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 masks.
Use immediately.
METHOD
Mix the dry ingredients together. Add the essential oils and lavender water and stir well. Let sit for a few minutes, and then, if necessary, add more lavender water until you have a consistency that is easy to spread.
Use as described for Mint Chocolate Face Pack (see here).
Nourishing & Cleansing Face Mask
Courtesy of ChaNan Bonser
A supersimple recipe, ready in an instant. Suitable for all skin types.
INGREDIENTS
splash of rosewater
splash of witch hazel
11/2 tsp. chickpea (besan) flour
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 mask.
Use immediately.
METHOD
Mix the rosewater and witch hazel with the chickpea (besan) flour to form a paste.
Use as described for Mint Chocolate Face Pack (see here).
Yarrow Soothing Skin Wash
Courtesy of Maida Silverman
Yarrow makes an excellent astringent skin wash, especially suitable for oily skin.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup dried yarrow flowering tops, crumbled
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 2 cups.
Keeps in the refrigerator for 4–5 days.
METHOD
Pour the water over the yarrow flowers, let cool for 30–60 minutes, and then strain.
Pat it on the skin frequently to soothe irritation.
Lavender Toner
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This is a supereasy toner suitable for all skin types, especially blemished.
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup vodka
1/4 cup lavender water (or rose, orange-flower, or other floral water as preferred)
drizzle of vegetable glycerin
9 drops lavender essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Pour all the ingredients into a bottle and shake well to mix.
Shake before use. Use daily, applying with cotton balls after cleansing. Avoid eye area.
Gentle Rose Toner for Mature Skin
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup rosewater
1 tbsp. Rose Vinegar (see here)
1 tsp. glycerin
Essential oils:
6 drops rose
6 drops rose geranium
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Pour all the ingredients into a bottle and shake well to mix.
Use as for Lavender Toner (see here).
Wintertime Facial Toner
Courtesy of Jenny Pao
A facial toning elixir for all skin types. It soothes irritated skin, tightens pores, and keeps acne at bay.
INGREDIENTS
11/2 cups water
1 peppermint tea bag
1 rooibos tea bag
1 chamomile tea bag
Essential oils:
1 drop rosemary
4 drops lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/2 cups.
Keeps 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Bring the water to a boil, then let cool for 3 minutes. Pour the water over the tea bags in a pot and let sit for 5 minutes.
Cool completely before removing the tea bags. Add the oils and pour into a glass bottle.
Shake bottle before use. Apply toner daily to clean skin prior to moisturizing.
Medicinal Lavender Skin Tonic
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Suitable for all skins, the apple cider vinegar makes it especially good for problem skins. The smell does not linger once applied.
INGREDIENTS
2 handfuls of lavender flowers
just under 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (see here)
just under 3 cups rosewater or Lavender Water (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 33/4 cups.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Put the lavender flowers in the bottom of a large jar. Pour in the vinegar and rosewater and shake to make sure there are no air bubbles. Let it infuse for 1–2 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally. Strain through cheesecloth.
Shake before use. Apply daily after cleansing.
— Variation —
FOR A POWERFUL LOTION TO TREAT ACNE AND INTERTRIGO (A FUNGAL-TYPE INFECTION THAT CAUSES SORENESS IN SKIN FOLDS), ADD THESE ESSENTIAL OILS TO THE ABOVE LOTION:
100 drops/1 tsp. tea tree
100 drops/1 tsp. lavender
50 drops/1/2 tsp. thyme
APPLY THE LOTION 2–3 TIMES DAILY TO SORE AREAS.
Simple Rose Face Cream
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
This is the simplest cream you can make.
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1/2 cup coconut oil
5 tsp. avocado oil
1 tbsp. honey
Water fraction:
5 tsp. rosewater
At the end:
10–15 drops rose (or rose geranium) essential oil (optional)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3/4 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Melt the coconut and avocado oils and the honey in a water bath, then gently warm the rosewater in a separate bowl in the water bath. Remove from the heat, and start to whisk the oil and honey mixture. As you do so, add a drop of rosewater.
Keep whisking and adding a little rosewater until you have used all of it, then whisk until the mixture starts to solidify. When it is semisolid, add the essential oils and whisk until well blended. Store in sterilized jars.
Rosy Lotion
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A nice, light lotion suitable as a face moisturizer for all skin types, including oily skin.
It is also good as a nongreasy hand nourisher for people who find hand creams too rich.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup rosewater
just under 1/2 cup glycerin
50 drops/1/2 tsp. rose geranium essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 13/4 cups.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Whisk all the ingredients in a bowl for a couple of minutes until they are blended. Then pour into a bottle.
Shake before use. Massage a small amount into your hands until absorbed.
Antiaging Day Cream
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This has all the ingredients of a top quality, superexpensive skin cream from a laboratory. Carrot oil contains vitamin A, which helps to improve the elasticity of collagen and plump up your skin. Vitamin C is a free-radical scavenger—antioxidants help to slow down the effects of aging, basically reducing damage from UV rays. Rose helps to heal broken capillaries and reduces wrinkles, and glycerin to help hold moisture in your skin.
Creams can be difficult to make, so before starting, read the guidance (see here).
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1/2 tsp. beeswax
1 tsp. emulsifying wax
2 tbsp. mango or shea butter
1 tbsp. carrot oil
1 tbsp. evening primrose oil
1/2 tsp. vitamin C powder
1/2 tsp. glycerin
Water fraction:
5 tbsp. rosewater
Extras:
10 drops rose essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 2–3 months.
METHOD
Gently heat together the waxes, mango or shea butter, and carrot and evening primrose oils in a water bath. When the waxes have melted, add the vitamin C powder and glycerin, and whisk well to mix.
Warm the rosewater to the same temperature. Whisk the rosewater into the oil fraction mix, adding the rose essential oil when the cream is cool.
Apply a small amount each morning to the face and neck.
Intensive Eye Serum
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
Oils can also be blended for different purposes. Use this eye serum for around the eye to treat dark circles or aging skin.
INGREDIENTS
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
11/2 tsp. camellia seed oil
11/2 tsp. rose hip seed oil
2 tsp. argan oil
Essential oils:
10 drops carrot seed
10 drops lemon
5 drops fennel
5 drops geranium
5 drops patchouli
5 drops rosemary
20 drops lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 5 tsp.
Keeps at least 6 months.
METHOD
Put all the ingredients into a dropper bottle and shake well.
Apply a few drops twice daily to the skin around the eyes.
Facial Serum for Sun-Damaged Skin
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
This serum of blended oils repairs sun damage at the cellular level.
INGREDIENTS
11/2 tsp. camellia seed oil
11/2 tsp. argan oil
11/2 tsp. rose hip seed oil
1 tsp. jojoba oil
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
10 drops of liquid vitamin D
Essential oils:
25 drops lavender
10 drops lemon
10 drops carrot seed
10 drops palma rosa
5 drops rosemary
5 drops patchouli
5 drops geranium
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1-oz. bottle (best to use pump spray dispenser).
Keeps 6 months in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Combine all the ingredients in a bottle and shake well.
Apply to the face 1–2 times daily.
Tropical Body Buff
Courtesy of Teri Evans
To exfoliate and nourish the skin.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup coconut oil
11/4 cups brown or raw sugar
Essential oils:
6 drops orange
4 drops lemongrass
3 drops ylang-ylang
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes up to 21/2 cups.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Warm the coconut oil in a water bath until it is just melted. Blend with the sugar well. Add the essential oils, making sure to mix well.
To use, massage a little into damp skin and wash off with warm water.
Caution
Do not use on damaged skin or on acne.
Choca-Coco Sugar Body Scrub
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
1 cup whole cane sugar
1/4 cup coconut sugar
2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp. jojoba oil
1 tsp. vanilla extract
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3 (1/2-cup) jars.
Keeps up to 1 year.
METHOD
Gently melt the coconut oil in a water bath, then blend with the rest of the ingredients in a mixing bowl before decanting into jars.
Use as for Tropical Body Buff (see here).
Exfoliating Seaweed Scrub
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. fine sea salt
1 tbsp. kelp powder
5 tsp. vegetable glycerin
7 tsp. sweet almond oil
Essential oils:
5 drops juniper
5 drops lemon
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 6 months.
METHOD
Mix the sea salt and kelp together. Add the glycerin and half the almond oil and mix well. If the mixture is too stiff, add more oil until it makes a thick, gloopy paste.
Add the essential oils and stir really well. Use as for Tropical Body Buff (see here).
Note: Not suitable for dry skin.
Anticellulite Body Scrub
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. fine sea salt
1 tbsp. ground coffee
5 tsp. vegetable glycerin
7 tsp. sweet almond oil
Essential oils:
5 drops juniper
5 drops grapefruit
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 6 months.
METHOD
Make and use as for Exfoliating Seaweed Scrub here), adding the coffee in place of the kelp.
— Tip —
IF YOU OMIT THE SEA SALT IN YOUR SCRUB RECIPES, YOU CAN USE THEM AS BODY MASKS INSTEAD. SPREAD OVER YOUR BODY, LET SIT FOR 20 MINUTES, AND THEN RINSE OFF.
Rosy Bath Bomb
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
21/2 cups baking soda
2 tsp. rose hip oil
2 tsp. dry rose petals
3/4 cup citric acid
Essential oils:
30 drops rose geranium
30 drops jasmine
few drops red food coloring
water in a spray bottle
YOU WILL NEED
• MOLDS FOR CUPCAKE-SIZE BOMBS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 12 bombs the size of cupcake liners (fewer if larger).
Keeps up to 1 year in an airtight container. (Note: They can’t go off, but the smell slowly disappears as the essential oils evaporate.)
METHOD
Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Mix the oils together, then add to the powders and mix again.
Add the food coloring to the water, then spray a little amount of water over the mix and blend in quickly and thoroughly. It has enough water added when you can squeeze it together and it only just holds together. Press firmly into molds. Let sit for up to 30 minutes to set, then turn out carefully.
Relaxation Bath Salts
Courtesy of Lucy Harmer
INGREDIENTS
31/2 cups sea salt or natural kosher salt
1 oz. dried lavender flowers
2/3 oz. dried chamomile flowers
Essential oils:
21 drops lavender
21 drops chamomile
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 41/2 cups.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix together and then keep in a sealed glass jar.
Add a small handful to your bath as required.
Love Spell Bath Salts
Courtesy of Lucy Harmer
I like to use Himalayan salt because it’s naturally pink.
INGREDIENTS
31/2 cups sea salt or natural kosher salt
1 oz. dried damascus rose petals
Essential oils:
14 drops damascus rose
14 drops geranium
14 drops palmarosa
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 41/2 cups.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together well and then keep in a sealed glass jar.
Add a small handful to your bath as required.
Purification Bath Salts
Courtesy of Lucy Harmer
INGREDIENTS
31/2 cups sea salt or natural kosher salt
2 oz. dried lavender flowers
Essential oils:
20 drops lavender
10 drops rosemary
10 drops juniper
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 41/2 cups.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix all the ingredients together well and then keep in a sealed glass jar.
Add a small handful to your bath as required.
Fruity Body Custard
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This light but deeply nourishing moisturizer is almost good enough to eat.
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. + 1 tsp. apricot kernel oil
1 tbsp. jojoba oil
2 tbsp. aloe vera gel
2 tbsp. orange-flower water
Essential oils:
10 drops sweet orange
3 drops pink grapefruit
2 drops bergamot
2 drops grapefruit seed extract
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Whisk the apricot kernel and jojoba oils into the aloe vera gel. Gradually add the orange-flower water while whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. Add the essential oils and grapefruit seed extract.
Massage into the skin as required.
Invigorating Body Butter
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A rich body moisturizer (richer than Fruity Body Custard, left).
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. cocoa butter
1/4 cup shea butter
2 tbsp. coconut oil
1/4 cup evening primrose oil
Essential oils:
10 drops rosemary
10 drops lemon
5 drops ginger
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Gently heat the cocoa and shea butters with the coconut oil in a water bath until they have melted. Remove from the heat and cool until lukewarm. Add the evening primrose oil and essential oils and whisk well.
The butter won’t set at room temperature. For best results, put the bowl in the refrigerator, removing every 30 minutes or so to whisk. When nearly set, whisk well and pour into jars. Return to the refrigerator until finally set.
Luxurious Body Butter
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. cocoa butter
1/4 cup shea butter
2 tbsp. coconut oil
1/4 cup evening primrose oil
Essential oils:
10 drops jasmine
10 drops sandalwood
5 drops rose
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Make as for All-Invigorating Body Butter (see here.
Antiseptic Body Butter
Good for skin prone to spots.
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. cocoa butter
1/4 cup shea butter
2 tbsp. coconut oil
1/4 cup evening primrose oil
Essential oils:
10 drops tea tree
10 drops oregano
5 drops thyme
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Make as for All-Invigorating Body Butter (see here).
Revive Facial Mist
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
A pick-me-up throughout the day, this also helps to combat dry skin and uplift the spirits in winter.
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup + 3 tbsp. still mineral water
2 tbsp. rosewater
1 tsp. glycerin
2 tsp. witch hazel
Essential oils:
6 drops spearmint
5 drops rosemary
3 drops palmarosa
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 1–2 months.
METHOD
Measure all the ingredients directly into a spray bottle.
To use, shake well, close your eyes, and spray onto your face.
Lavender & Rose Hand Cream
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Creams can be difficult to make, so before starting, read the guidance (see here.
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
21/2 tbsp. beeswax
1 tbsp. cocoa butter
Water fraction:
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp. rosewater
1/2 tsp. borax (see box)
Essential oils:
10 drops rose
8 drops geranium
5 drops ylang-ylang
15 drops lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes nearly 1 cup.
Keeps 2–3 months.
METHOD
Heat the oil fraction ingredients together in a water bath, then remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Meanwhile, gently heat the water fraction until the borax dissolves.
Whisk the oil mix briskly until the bowl is lukewarm. Gradually add the water fraction ingredients without stopping whisking. Whisk as though your life depended on it. When the mixture looks creamy and white, add the essential oils while still whisking. You will notice a point when the cream starts to set; at this point, pour into jars.
Timing is the key with this recipe. If you wait too long, you will have to scrape the cream into the jars. If you pour it in too soon, the cream will separate.
Antiseptic Hand Cream
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
just under 1/2 cup coconut oil
21/2 tsp. beeswax
1 tbsp. cocoa butter
Water fraction:
1/4 cup + 1 tbsp. lavender water or witch hazel
1/2 tsp. borax (see box)
Essential oils:
12 drops thyme
12 drops tea tree
12 drops oregano
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes nearly 1 cup.
Keeps 2–3 months.
METHOD
Make as for Lavender & Rose Handcream (see here).
Nail & Cuticle Booster
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
1/3 oz. dried horsetail
1/4 cup sunflower oil
3 drops lemon essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1/4 cup.
Keeps up to 6 months.
METHOD
Make an infused oil with the horsetail and sunflower oil (see here). Add the lemon essential oil and bottle.
Massage a little oil into your cuticles at night to stimulate blood flow.
— Tip —
FOR A DEEP NAIL-STRENGTHENING TREATMENT, WARM THE OIL GENTLY IN A WATER BATH AND SOAK YOUR NAILS IN IT FOR 20 MINUTES. YOU CAN REUSE THE OIL AGAIN AND AGAIN.
Nourishing Nail Oil
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
Use this oil to strengthen and protect dry, brittle nails.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. jojoba oil
1 tbsp. sweet almond oil
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
Essential oils:
25 drops lavender
8 drops rosemary
6 drops spearmint
4 drops black spruce
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 5 tsp.
Keeps around 6 months.
METHOD
Add all the other ingredients to a dropper bottle and shake well.
Apply 2–3 times daily to nails and nail bed.
Foot & Leg Spray
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This helps to treat smelly feet, as well as to soothe and tone aching varicose veins.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup witch hazel
1 tsp. baking soda
Essential oils:
10 drops peppermint
8 drops rosemary
5 drops bergamot
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Gently heat the witch hazel and baking soda until the baking soda is dissolved. Add the oils and store in a spray bottle.
Shake before use. Spray on your legs and feet 1–2 times daily.
Soothing & Refreshing Footbath
Courtesy of Johanna Herzog
This helps to protect against athlete’s foot, and to treat aching and sweaty feet.
INGREDIENTS
2 handfuls of birch buds or leaves
2 handfuls of leaves and bark of ivy
4 cups boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes enough for 1 bath. Use immediately.
METHOD
Infuse the ingredients together for 10–15 minutes (see here). Add to a basin containing enough hot water for a footbath; the water should be as hot as comfortable for the feet. Sit with your feet in it for 15–20 minutes.
“Beach Hair” Styling Spray for Curls
You can save a lot of money by making your own “beach hair” spray for that windswept look.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups boiling water
41/2 tbsp. Epsom salts
1 tbsp. rosemary tincture (see here; use 1 tbsp. rosemary infused in 2 tbsp. vodka)
1 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tsp. aloe vera gel
1/2 tsp. almond oil
10 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups.
Keeps in refrigerator around 3 months.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients into a spray bottle and spray as much as is required to style your hair.
Citrus Hair Spray
This works well as a hair spray to keep hair in place, but only lasts for a week.
INGREDIENTS
2 lemons
1 lime
2 cups water (more if required)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 1 week in the refrigerator.
METHOD
Cut up the lemons and lime. Simmer in the water for about 1 hour, keeping the water level up to 1 cup (half the amount you started with) by adding more as it boils away.
Let cool. Strain well and bottle in a spray bottle.
Spray as much as is required to style your hair.
Super Anticellulite Oil
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup grapeseed oil
7 large fresh ivy leaves
1 tsp. wheatgerm oil
Essential oils:
7 drops juniper
3 drops geranium
2 drops rosemary
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/4 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Make an infused oil (see here) with the grapeseed oil and the ivy. Add the wheatgerm oil and essential oils. Bottle.
Massage well into the usual problem areas 1–2 times daily.
Anti-Cold Sore Lip Balm
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. cocoa butter
2 tsp. shea butter
2 tsp. beeswax
4 tsp. coconut oil
4 tsp. St. John’s Wort Oil (see here)
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
10 drops lemon balm essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• 16 LIPSTICK MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 16 lip balms using lipstick molds.
Keeps 6 months or more.
METHOD
Melt all the ingredients except the vitamin E and lemon balm oils in a water bath. When melted, remove from the heat and add the vitamin E and lemon balm oil and pour into molds.
Chocolate Bomb Lip Therapy
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
This luscious lip balm heals and protects the delicate skin of your lips.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. beeswax
2 tsp. cocoa butter
2 tsp. shea butter
3/4 oz. semidark chocolate
4 tsp. olive oil
oil from 5 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
10 drops peppermint essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• 16 LIPSTICK MOLDS OR LIP BALM JARS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 16 lip balms using lipstick molds or jars.
Keeps 6 months or more.
METHOD
In a double boiler, melt the beeswax, cocoa butter, shea butter, and chocolate. When melted, add the olive oil, then take off the heat and add the vitamin E oil.
Finally, add the peppermint essential oil. Stir well and then put into the lip balm jars or lipstick molds immediately.
Doux-Baiser Lipstick (Sweet Kiss)
Courtesy of Christine Herren-Valette
Protects the lips while adding a touch of color.
INGREDIENTS
1 tsp. beeswax
4 tsp. Heal-All Marigold Oil (see here)
Essential oils:
6 drops rose
12 drops rosewood
tiny pinch of Italian ocher earth (pink)
YOU WILL NEED
• 5 OR 6 LIPSTICK MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 5 or 6 sticks. Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Melt the beeswax and the marigold oil in a water bath. Remove from the heat and add the essential oils.
Mix all the ingredients with either a wooden stick (such as a wooden spoon handle) or a glass one (not metal or plastic) for 2–3 minutes.
Add the Italian ocher earth and stir for an additional 1–2 minutes to obtain a homogeneous color. Pour immediately into molds.
Beet Lippy
Vitamin-rich beet both conditions and colors your lips.
INGREDIENTS
4 tsp. St. John’s Wort Oil (see here)
1 tbsp. fresh grated beet
1 tsp. beeswax
Essential oils:
8 drops orange
8 drops lemon
YOU WILL NEED
• 5 OR 6 LIPSTICK MOLDS
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 5 or 6 sticks.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Pour the St. John’s Wort Oil over the beet. Let sit in a covered jar for 3 days, then strain and squeeze out all the oil (wear gloves because the beet stains).
Gently melt the beeswax into the beet oil. Remove from the heat, stir the essential oils in thoroughly, and pour into molds.
Natural Mascara
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
This mascara isn’t waterproof, so is easy to remove with water or vegetable oil.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. white kaolin clay powder
1/4 tsp. black mineral oxide
1/2 tsp. vegetable glycerin
11/2 tsp. witch hazel
10 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop oregano essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• A SYRINGE
• 2 WELL-WASHED MASCARA CASES
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 2 mascara containers.
Keeps 3 months maximum.
METHOD
Blend all the ingredients well in a small bowl. Using a syringe, insert the mascara into the mascara container. Alternatively, store in a small jar and apply it with an old mascara applicator or eyebrow brush.
SOAP MAKING
You can buy the pure vegetable oil soap needed for many personal care and household cleaning recipes in this book or make your own from scratch. Making soap involves first preparing the lye, then separately warming and mixing an oil component, and finally mixing these. Other ingredients are mostly added later (unless the recipe says otherwise). The recipe for Citrus Oats & Honey Soap (see here) explains the process in full; others refer back to it and explain the individual differences. Make sure you will not be disturbed, and keep children and animals away. Once underway, you cannot stop for some time.
Read “Key Techniques” (see here) before commencing.
All these soaps will keep for several years.
Caution
Have all equipment ready before you start, including safety equipment. Soap making involves handling a dangerous chemical substance, so it needs extra caution. It helps to weigh or measure all the ingredients before you start, and have them safely stowed and ready to use.
YOU WILL NEED
• SAFETY: OVERALLS, GLOVES, PROTECTIVE GLASSES OR GOGGLES, HAIR COVERING
• VINEGAR OR LEMON JUICE ON HAND (TO NEUTRALIZE POSSIBLE LYE BURNS)
• DIGITAL SCALES (ACCURATE WEIGHING/MEASURING IS ESSENTIAL)
• STAINLESS STEEL OR ENAMEL SAUCEPAN, WITH A 3–4-QUART CAPACITY
• SILICONE OR STAINLESS STEEL SPATULA/SPOON
• SMALL STAINLESS STEEL/GLASS/PLASTIC BOWLS
• PAIL
• LIQUID MEASURING CUP
The recipes (see here) use a cold process. For cold-process solid soap making, you will also need:
• A CANDY THERMOMETER
• MOLDS—EITHER SILICONE SOAP MOLDS OR A LARGE MOLD THAT YOU WILL LATER CUT INTO BARS—FOR EXAMPLE, A WOODEN BOX LINED WITH PLASTIC
The recipes (see here and here use a hot process. For hot-process liquid soap making, you will also need:
• A SLOW COOKER (ONE USED ONLY FOR SOAP)
• A HANDHELD BLENDER (ALSO CALLED AN IMMERSION BLENDER)
• 1 OR MORE CONTAINERS WITH TIGHT-FITTING LIDS TO STORE 1 GALLON SOAP
Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap
Courtesy of Emma Warrener
The oats give texture and add a fantastic exfoliant effect.
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
101/2 oz. sodium hydroxide
30 oz. water
Oils:
21 oz. coconut oil
26 oz. sunflower oil
25 oz. good-quality olive oil
Extras:
2 cups oats
almost 1/2 cup honey
100 drops/1 tsp. lime essential oil
100 drops/1 tsp. lemongrass essential oil
MAKES
Makes about 30 bars, each weighing 31/2 oz.
METHOD
Wearing gloves and eye protection, make the lye by carefully pouring the sodium hydroxide crystals into the container holding the water, then put it safely out of harm’s way to cool to 80.6–86°F. (Never pour water onto the lye.)
While it is cooling, gently heat the oils together until the coconut oil is melted and cool to 80.6–86°F.
Carefully pour the lye into the oils and stir with the spatula until you reach “trace”—this is when you stir and the movement of the spatula creates a line on the top of the mixture—a “trace” that doesn’t disappear. It’s a sign that your soap has reached full saponification—when the lye has turned the oils to soap—and indicates your misture is ready. To reach trace usually takes about 1/2 hour, but soap has its own time scale and it can take much longer! Make sure to stir very thoroughly, all around the sides and the bottom of the pan, and continuously.
When you’ve achieved a trace, it’s time to add the extras (oats, honey, and essential oils). It is easiest to do this by putting a small ladle of the mixture into a small bowl, mixing in the extras, then adding this into the main mixtur and stirring well to be sure they are distributed evenly through the mixture.
Pour the soap into molds and put in a safe place, away from children, for it to set for 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove from the molds (wear gloves, because the soap is still caustic) and put it in a dry place to cure for 4–5 weeks.
— Tip —
MIXING THE OILS IN A SMALL AMOUNT AS DESCRIBED IS EASIER TO WORK WITH AND ENSURES THEY ARE WELL BLENDED. IT ALSO MEANS YOU CAN EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT ESSENTIAL OILS WITHOUT THE DANGER OF RUINING YOUR WHOLE BATCH OF SOAP, BECAUSE SOME WILL REACT DIFFERENTLY.
Bug Off! Insect Repellent Soap
Courtesy of Tanya Smart
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
4 oz. sodium hydroxide
13 oz. water
Oils:
13 oz. coconut oil
101/2 oz. olive oil
31/2 oz. cocoa butter
2 oz. shea butter
Essential oils:
2 tsp. may chang
100 drops/1 tsp. Virginian cedarwood
100 drops/1 tsp. juniper
50 drops/1/2 tsp. basil
MAKES
Makes 12 bars, each weighing 31/2 oz.
METHOD
Make as for Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap (see here). First, prepare the lye and set aside to warm. Then warm the oils. Mix the lye and the oil parts together to trace, before adding the essential oils.
Sugar & Spice Body & Shampoo Bar
Courtesy of Tanya Smart
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
4 oz. sodium hydroxide
13 oz. water
Oils:
13 oz. coconut oil
101/2 oz. olive oil
31/2 oz. cocoa butter
2 oz. shea butter
1 tbsp. golden syrup or light corn syrup
2 tsp. jojoba oil
Essential oils:
11/2 tsp. orange
100 drops/1 tsp. ylang ylang
100 drops/1 tsp. black pepper
50 drops/1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
50 drops/1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
MAKES
Makes 12 bars, each weighing 31/2 oz.
METHOD
Make as for Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap (see here). First, prepare the lye and set aside to warm. Then warm the oils, adding the golden syrup to the mix as it is warming. Mix the lye and the oil parts together to trace, before adding the jojoba oil and essential oils.
Gardeners’ Soap for Dirty Nails
Courtesy of Tanya Smart
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
4 oz. sodium hydroxide
13 oz. water
Oils:
13 oz. coconut oil
101/2 oz. olive oil
31/2 oz. cocoa butter
2 oz. shea butter
Essential oils:
2 tsp. clary sage
100 drops/1 tsp. lavender
50 drops/1/2 tsp. rosemary
50 drops/1/2 tsp. bay
1 tbsp. coffee, coarsely ground
1 tsp. spirulina powder
MAKES
Makes 12 bars, each weighing 31/2 oz.
METHOD
Make as for Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap (see here). First, prepare the lye and set aside to warm. Then warm the oils. Mix the lye and the oil parts together to trace, before adding the essential oils, coffee grounds, and spirulina.
Baby Bubbles
Courtesy of Tanya Smart
Gentle and mild soap for sensitive skin.
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
4 oz. sodium hydroxide
13 oz. water
Oils:
13 oz. coconut oil
101/2 oz. olive oil
31/2 oz. cocoa butter
2 oz. shea butter
Essential oils:
2 tsp. may chang
100 drops/1 tsp. Virginian cedarwood
100 drops/1 tsp. juniper
50 drops/1/2 tsp. basil
4 tsp. dried lavender flowers
1 tbsp. dried marigold petals
MAKES
Makes 12 bars, each weighing 3 1/2oz.
METHOD
Make as for Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap (p.195). First, prepare the lye and set aside to warm. Then warm the oils. Mix the lye and the oil parts together to trace, before adding the essential oils, lavender flowers, and marigold petals.
Luxury Soap
Courtesy of Tanya Smart
INGREDIENTS
Lye:
41/2 oz. sodium hydroxide
131/2 oz. water
Oils:
163/4 oz. coconut oil
101/2 oz. olive oil
13/4 oz. shea butter
1 oz. beeswax
1 tbsp. milk powder (optional)
3 tbsp. honey
3 tbsp. oats
Essential oils:
100 drops/1 tsp. sandalwood
100 drops/1 tsp. frankincense
100 drops/1 tsp. rose
100 drops/1 tsp. ylang-ylang
50 drops/1/2 tsp. patchouli
2 tsp. castor oil
MAKES
Makes 12 bars, each weighing 31/2 oz.
METHOD
Make as for Citrus, Oat & Honey Soap (p.195). First, prepare the lye and set aside to warm. Then warm the oils, adding the milk powder, honey, and oats as they warm. Make sure the beeswax is completely melted with the other oils. Mix the lye and the oil parts together to trace, before adding the essential oils and castor oil.
Pure Olive Oil Castile Soap
Pure castile soap is made from olive oil using a hot process (see here). An extremely moisturizing, mild soap, it is kind on the skin.
INGREDIENTS
47 oz. organic olive oil
Lye:
30 oz. distilled water
9.39 oz. potassium hydroxide
80 oz. distilled water (separate from the lye)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 5 quarts of liquid soap.
Keeps 1 year or more.
METHOD
Put the olive oil in your slow cooker and turn it on to its low setting.
Meanwhile, make the lye. Do this outside, if possible, or by an open window. Put the 3o oz. of water into a large, stainless steel saucepan. Put on goggles and gloves.
Pour the potassium hydroxide into the water carefully and slowly, without splashing. (Note: NEVER pour the water into the lye, because this is very dangerous.)
Next, pour the lye-water mixture slowly and carefully into the oil in the slow cooker. Stir it with a spoon that can take the heat. The oil will become cloudy.
Stir carefully without splashing, until you have the “trace” on the top, as with all soap making. You may need to stir for a long time—an immersion blender on slow can take from 5–10 minutes to 40 minutes or more—and, once started, you cannot stop.
When you have the “trace,” put the lid on the slow cooker and let it heat (still on low) for 20 minutes. Every 20 minutes or so give it another stir and mix well; don’t worry if it separates—this is normal. Stir well to mix, being careful because it is still corrosive.
Fairly soon the mixture will get too thick to stir with the blender, so use a spoon or spatula to stir instead. (It’s handy to have both.) The mixture will start to resemble thick mashed potatoes and be difficult to mix. Continue to stir every 20 minutes, until the thick mixture is translucent but yellowish. It will take up to 12 hours, but the blended soap may be done in 4–5 hours. If you need to, turn off the slow cooker and go to bed for the night, resuming in the morning.
After 4–5 hours, test it by carefully dissolving 1 oz. of the mixture into 2 oz. very hot water in a clear glass container.
Stir it: If it turns milky or cloudy, it needs to cook for longer; if it is clear, it’s ready.
When it is ready, carefully weigh the thick paste (wearing gloves) and put it into a large saucepan. Bring the same quantity of water by weight (16 oz. water to every 16 oz. paste) almost to a boil and pour on top.
Stir gently to dissolve. This can take a long time—you need to stir, possibly heat it some more, and stir again. If it keeps forming a whitish layer on top, you need to dilute more—add up to the same amount of water again and heat, stirring gently. Store in large jars.
Although I have used it immediately, it becomes more gentle with time, and I recommend letting it sit for 4–6 weeks to “cure” before use.
Liquid Castile Soap
Nowadays, many blended vegetable oil soaps are called “castile” or “Marseille” soap. This blended soap is less moisturizing but more strongly cleansing than the pure olive oil one.
INGREDIENTS
20 oz. olive oil
14 oz. sunflower oil
15 oz. coconut oil
Lye:
30 oz. distilled water
91/2 oz. potassium hydroxide
80 oz. distilled water (separate from the lye)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 5 quarts of liquid soap. Keeps 1 year or more.
METHOD
Make as for Pure Olive Oil Castile Soap (see here), replacing the single quantity of olive oil with the blend of 3 oils (above). These ingredients will take less time to saponify than the Pure Olive Oil Castile Soap, so you’ll find you won’t be stirring the mixture for as long.
Luxury Moisturizing Handwash
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. avocado oil
Essential oils:
10 drops chamomile
10 drops lavender
10 drops neroli
1 tsp. glycerin
2 tbsp. liquid soap (Pure Olive Oil Castile Soap, will be the most moisturizing)
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. boiled or distilled water
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. rosewater
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps effective at least 3 months.
METHOD
Whisk the avocado oil and essential oils into the glycerin. Slowly mix in the rest of the ingredients. Pour into a hand-soap dispenser. Shake from time to time.
Lavender Handwash
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. Lavender-Infused Oil (see here)
30 drops lavender essential oil
1 tsp. glycerin
2 tbsp. Liquid Castile Soap (see here)
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. boiled or distilled water
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. lavender water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps effective at least 3 months.
METHOD
Whisk the Lavender-Infused Oil and essential oil into the glycerin. Then make and use as for Luxury Moisturizing Handwash (see here).
Mandarin Handwash
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. infused lemon oil (see here)
Essential oils:
20 drops mandarin
20 drops orange
10 drops tea tree
1 tsp. glycerin
2 tbsp. Liquid Castile Soap (see here)
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. boiled or distilled water
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. orange-flower or witch hazel water
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 3 months.
METHOD
Make as for Luxury Moisturizing Handwash (see here).
Antibacterial Liquid Handwash
This combines the bacteria-zapping actions of witch hazel, tea tree, lavender, and thyme to make a powerful soap with a fresh odor.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. almond oil
Essential oils:
20 drops tea tree
20 drops lavender
10 drops thyme
1 tsp. glycerin
2 tbsp. Liquid Castile Soap (see here)
3 tbsp. + 1 tsp. boiled or distilled water
2 tbsp. distilled witch hazel
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 3 months.
METHOD
Make as for Luxury Moisturizing Handwash (see here).
Moisturizing Working Hand Scrub
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
51/2 tbsp. fine sea salt
up to 63/4 tbsp. sunflower oil
Essential oils:
10 drops lemon
15 drops lavender
10 drops geranium
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3/4 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Put the salt into a bowl and trickle enough sunflower oil into it to make a thick paste. Add the essential oils and stir well. Store in a jar.
Wet your hands and massage about 1 tsp. of the scrub gently into your hands. Rinse off. The oil should leave your hands feeling soft.
Clay Soap Alternative
A simple clay wash for your face, hands, body, and hair. Use any fine clay earth, such as Tilak from India or Rassoul Clay from Morocco, or whatever you have locally (if you dig up your own, be sure to carefully sift and filter it to remove pebbles).
INGREDIENTS
1–3 tsp. fine clay
1–3 tsp. rosewater
MAKES & KEEPS
1 wash.
Make and use same day.
METHOD
Wet your skin, take a little clay powder, and rub it over your skin, applying more water as needed. Let it stay on the skin for a few minutes, and wash off. For a lovely face wash, mix the clay with a little rosewater and then apply.
Psoriasis Skin Scrub
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
Use this gentle alternative to soap in the bath or shower to help with descaling.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup Lavender-Infused Oil (see here)
³ cup oatmeal
25 drops/1/4 tsp. helichynum essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 1 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Melt the coconut and lavender oils in a double boiler or water bath. Let sit until it starts to cool. Whisk until it is lukewarm and the oil is starting to solidify. Blend in the oatmeal and add the essential oil.
Before bathing, apply skin scrub to a facecloth and lightly rub over the body. Soak in the bath or shower, rubbing the skin while in the water. Towel dry, leaving the skin soft and smooth.
Antiaging Skin Scrub
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup Lavender-infused Oil (see here)
³ cup oatmeal
Essential oils:
15 drops frankincense
4 drops geranium
4 drops neroli light
10 drops lavender
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 1 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Make and use as for Psoriasis Skin Scrub (see here).
Healing Skin Scrub
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup Lavender-infused Oil (see here)
1/3 cup oatmeal
Essential oils:
1/4 tsp. lavender
10 drops geranium
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 1 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Make and use as for Psoriasis Skin Scrub (see here).
Coconut Scrub for Blemishes
Courtesy of Lynn Rawlinson
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup Lavender-infused Oil (see here)
1/3 cup oatmeal
Essential oils:
30 drops lavender
10 drops chamomile
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes/almost 1 cup.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Make and use as for Psoriasis Skin Scrub (see here).
Soapwort Shampoo for Dark Hair
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This leaves your hair so soft and glossy you will love it!
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 oz. Irish moss seaweed
1 oz. soapwort root, coarsely ground
1/2 oz. sage
2/3 cup boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Enough for 1–2 applications.
Use within 3 days.
METHOD
Crumble the Irish moss and mix in with the other dry ingredients. Put into a bowl and pour in the boiling water. Let cool stirring occasionally. Strain through cheesecloth, pushing it through to leave a greenish slime.
Use like normal shampoo, but don’t expect it to foam. Rinse well.
Note: Avoid getting it in your eyes—it will sting a lot.
Soapwort Shampoo for Blondes
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 oz. Irish moss seaweed
1 oz. soapwort root, coarsely ground
1/2 oz. chamomile
2/3 cup boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Enough for 1–2 applications.
Use within 3 days.
METHOD
Make and use as for Soapwort Shampoo for Dark Hair (see here).
Soapwort Shampoo for Redheads
Courtesy of Teri Evans
INGREDIENTS
Dried herbs:
1/2 oz. Irish moss seaweed
1 oz. soapwort root, coarsely ground
1/2 oz. marigold petals
2/3 cup boiling water
MAKES & KEEPS
Enough for 1–2 applications.
Use within 3 days.
METHOD
Make and use as for Soapwort Shampoo for Dark Hair (see here).
Red Clover Mild Shampoo
For normal hair, and also good for children.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup boiling distilled water
1/4 cup fresh red clover flowers (or 1/4 oz. dried)
1 tsp. apricot kernel oil or almond oil
2 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
2 tbsp. liquid soap, castile if desired (see here), or any kind of shampoo base
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1 cup.
Keeps up to 2 months.
METHOD
Make and use as for Comfrey & Elder Shampoo for Dry Hair (see here).
Comfrey & Elder Shampoo for Dry Hair
Courtesy of Karen Stephenson
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup fresh comfrey root (or 1/4 oz. dried)
1/4 cup fresh elderflowers (or 1/4 oz. dried)
1 cup boiling distilled water
Essential oils:
6 drops neroli
6 drops lavender
1 tsp. apricot kernel oil or almond oil
2 tbsp. liquid soap, castile if desired (see here), or any type of shampoo base
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1 cup.
Keeps up to 2 months.
METHOD
Infuse the herbs with the boiling water for 20 minutes (see here). Strain and mix the essential oils with the apricot kernel or almond oil, then mix thoroughly with the soap or shampoo base. Gently mix with the infused herbs.
Shake gently before each use.
Willow Shampoo for Oily Hair
Courtesy of Karen Stephenson
INGREDIENTS
1 cup boiling distilled water
1/3 oz. dried white willow bark
1/3 oz. dried lemongrass (or 1/4 cup freshly grated)
1 tsp. apricot kernel oil or almond oil
Essential oils:
6 drops bergamot
6 drops cedarwood
2 tbsp. liquid soap, castile if desired (see here), or any kind of shampoo base
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1 cup.
Keeps up to 2 months.
METHOD
Make and use as described for Comfrey & Elder Shampoo for Dry Hair (see here).
Burdock Antidandruff Shampoo
Courtesy of Karen Stephenson
INGREDIENTS
1 cup boiling distilled water
1/4 cup grated fresh burdock root (or 1/4 oz. dried)
1/4 cup fresh chamomile flowers (or 1/4 oz. dried)
1 tsp. apricot kernel oil or almond oil
12 drops rosemary essential oil
2 tbsp. liquid soap, castile if desired (see here), or any kind of shampoo base
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1 cup.
Keeps up to 2 months.
METHOD
Make and use as described for Comfrey & Elder Shampoo for Dry Hair (see here).
Cornstarch & Rosemary Dry Shampoo
A quick alternative to washing your hair.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. dried rosemary, ground to a powder
1 cup cornstarch
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1 cup.
Keeps at least a year if kept dry.
METHOD
Thoroughly mix the rosemary and cornstarch. Store in a sugar shaker for easy use. Apply a little of the powder to your hair roots. Rub it in well with your fingers, then brush it thoroughly to remove the grease.
— Tip —
ADD A COUPLE OF DROPS OF AN ESSENTIAL OIL TO YOUR SHAMPOO FOR A STRONGER FRAGRANCE.
Nettle & Sage Shampoo for Graying Hair
Use this to slow down graying.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup boiling distilled water
1/3 oz. dried nettles
1/3 oz. dried sage
1 tsp. almond oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
2 tbsp. liquid soap, castile if desired (see here), or any kind of shampoo base
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just over 1 cup.
Keeps up to 2 months.
METHOD
Make and use as described for Comfrey & Elder Shampoo for Dry Hair (see here).
Hair Mud
Courtesy of Teri Evans
Suitable for all hair types except very dry. Either use it as a shampoo or leave it in for 20 minutes as a deep cleansing hair pack. Your hair feels incredibly clean after use.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 tbsp. rhassoul mud powder (this is a Moroccan mud from the Atlas Mountains but you can use any kind of clay)
2 tbsp. herbal infusion (see here): chamomile for blonde; marigold for red; nettle for brown; sage or black tea for black
MAKES & KEEPS
Enough for 1–2 applications.
Keep in the refrigerator and use within 1 week.
METHOD
Mix the mud and herbal infusion well. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir again and add more infusion, if needed.
Massage the clay through your hair like a shampoo. Let sit for a few minutes, then rinse off thoroughly.
Orange, Lime & Grapefruit Conditioner
Courtesy of Emma Warrener
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1 tsp. coconut oil
2 tbsp. emulsifying wax
1 tsp. grapeseed oil
1/2 cup water (or floral water, or herbal infusion)
1 tsp. glycerin
oil from 2 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
Essential oils:
30 drops sweet orange
30 drops lime
30 drops grapefruit
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 2/3 cup.
Keeps up to 1 year.
METHOD
Gently heat the oil fraction in a double boiler with the water (or floral water or herbal infusion) in the bottom pan. When the oils are melted, remove the pan from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, measure the warmed water and top up to 1/2 cup. Add the glycerin to the water and stir thoroughly.
Slowly add the water mixture to the oil mixture, whisking continuously. The mixture will thicken up as it cools down. Once all of the water has been added, mix in the vitamin E oil and essential oils.
Let cool completely, whisking now and then to make sure that the liquid doesn’t separate.
Store in a recycled plastic shampoo/conditioner bottle for ease of use.
Apply to clean, wet hair, leave in for 2–4 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Nit-Deterring Conditioner
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1 tsp. coconut oil
2 tbsp. emulsifying wax
1 tsp. neem oil
1/2 cup water (or lavender water or quassia infusion)
1 tsp. glycerin
oil from 2 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules
Essential oils:
30 drops tea tree
40 drops lavender
20 drops thyme
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 2/3 cup.
Keeps 1–2 months.
METHOD
Make and use as for Orange, Lime & Grapefruit Conditioner (see here).
— Variation —
VARY THE ESSENTIAL OILS TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. SEE THE HERBAL INFUSIONS AND OILS USED IN THE SHAMPOO RECIPES FOR INSPIRATION. IF YOU ADD AN HERBAL INFUSION IN PLACE OF THE WATER, THE CONDITIONER WILL KEEP ONLY UP TO 1–2 MONTHS.
— Tip —
PURE, PLAIN YOGURT IS A GOOD CONDITIONER. APPLY TO HAIR AS YOU WOULD A STORE-BOUGHT CONDITIONER. ONCE EVERY 1–2 WEEKS USE A DEEP TREATMENT, SUCH AS HAIR MILK OR OIL.
Tropical Hair Milk
Courtesy of Teri Evans
This alternative to a hot oil treatment is less greasy but deeply conditioning for the hair. It smells deliciously tropical. Suitable for all hair types.
INGREDIENTS
just under 1/2 cup coconut milk
7 drops lemon balm oil
4 drops ylang-ylang essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Enough for 1 application.
Use immediately.
METHOD
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl.
Massage into your hair and leave it in for 10–20 minutes. Wash with a gentle shampoo.
You can use this treatment up to once a week, as desired.
All-Natural Hot Oil Hair Treatment
INGREDIENTS
1 cup olive oil
3 tbsp. dried rosemary leaves
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1 cup.
Keeps 6 months.
METHOD
Make an infused oil with the rosemary and olive oil (see here). Wash your hair and towel dry. Apply 2–5 tbsp. of the oil to your hair and massage it. Put a plastic cap on and wrap your head in a towel. After 45–90 minutes, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.
Use weekly or less, as required.
Sweet Rose Hair Oil
A sweet-smelling hair oil, simple to make.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 oz. dried rose petals or buds
about 1 cup coconut oil
4–8 drops rose (or rose geranium) essential oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1 cup.
Keeps 6–12 months.
METHOD
Put the roses and the coconut oil into a double boiler. Heat on low heat for 2–3 hours. Strain, add the essential oil, and pour into a jar.
Melt and use as described for All-Natural Hot Oil Hair Treatment (see here). Alternatively, apply a little to your fingers and massage into the ends of your hair daily to moisturize.
Hair Growth Tonic
Courtesy of Johanna Herzog
Helps to stimulate and warm the scalp, so helping hair growth.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups vodka
1/2 cup water
2 handfuls of fresh young birch leaves (collected in spring), shredded
2 handfuls of fresh nettle leaves and roots
1–2 fresh burdock roots, chopped
1 vanilla bean (optional)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups.
Keeps 1 year.
METHOD
Mix in a covered jar and let sit for 2 weeks, then strain as for any tincture (See here)
Dilute a little of the tonic with the same amount of water and massage into the scalp daily.
Rosemary Vinegar
Helps to promote hair growth as a hair rinse, and to improve the memory and circulation as a drink. It has a fresh smell and some antiseptic properties, so is also useful in cleaning products.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup rosemary flowering tops
2 cups Apple Cider Vinegar (see here)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 2 cups.
Keeps at least 2 years.
METHOD
Make as for vinegars (See here).
For use on hair, dilute 1 part to 2 parts water. Apply on wet hair after washing/conditioning as a final rinse. You can also put it in a spray bottle and spray on to wet hair.
Hair & Herbal Vinegars
Herbal vinegars, when used as a hair rinse, will encourage shine and help restore your hair’s protective acid pH. Different vinegars can be used for different effect. Try nettle and rosemary for promoting thickness and increased hair growth, or rosemary and a few drops of tea tree oil to treat dandruff, or sage to darken graying hair.
⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄⋄
Cinnamint Toothpaste
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
To whiten the teeth and strengthen and heal gums.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. white kaolin clay powder
1 tbsp. arrowroot powder
1/2 tsp. vitamin C powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
up to 11/2 tsp. pure liquid soap (castile soap, especially Dr. Bronner’s, is recommended)
15–20 drops peppermint essential oil
Tinctures (See here):
30–50 drops stevia
1 tsp. echinacea
1 tsp. sage
1 tsp. 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (naturally whitens teeth)
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/4 cup.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Combine all the ingredients in a jar and stir well. Slowly add a little water to make a paste, and store.
Use as you would any toothpaste.
Teri’s Tooth Powder
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A simple and effective tooth powder.
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. arrowroot
1 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 drops peppermint or cinnamon essential oil
YOU WILL NEED
• A MORTAR AND PESTLE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 41/2 tsp.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together well. Pound to a dry paste with the mortar and pestle and store.
Use as you would any toothpaste.
— Variation —
ADD 2 DROPS OF CLOVE OIL TO THIS TOOTH POWDER FOR A STRONGLY ANTISEPTIC EFFECT.
Medicated Tooth Powder for Gum Disease
INGREDIENTS
1/2 tsp. ground myrrh
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 tsp. chickpea (besan) flour
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 3 tbps.
Keeps at least 1 year.
METHOD
Combine all the ingredients, mixing well. Store in small airtight jars.
Use a small sprinkle, apply as any toothpaste. Used daily, this amount could last 1–3 months.
Medicinal Mouthwash & Gargle
Helps to treat gum disease, mouth, and throat infections.
INGREDIENTS
Tinctures (See here):
4 tsp./20ml myrrh
4 tsp./20ml cloves
4 tsp./20ml peppermint
4 tsp./20ml sage
4 tsp./20ml horse chestnut
Essential oils:
1 drop lavender
1 drop geranium
1 drop eucalyptus
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 1/2 cup.
Keeps 2 years or more.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients together in a bottle.
Shake before use. Dilute 1/2 tsp. in 2 tbsp. warm water. Use to gargle or mouthwash twice daily.
Sage & Lavender Deodorant
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A floral scent that women may prefer.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. dried sage
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. witch hazel
3 tsp. fresh cleavers (2 tsp. dried)
1 tbsp. vodka
1 tsp. benzoin tincture (Friar’s Balsam)
Essential oils:
5 drops sage
5 drops lavender
YOU WILL NEED
• 2-FL.-OZ. SPRAY BOTTLE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 1/4 cup.
Keeps 3–6 months.
METHOD
Let the sage infuse in the witch hazel for 2 weeks, and the cleavers infuse in the vodka for 2 weeks (see here). Strain and press both, then combine. Add all the other ingredients and mix in a bottle with a spray top. Shake well.
Shake before use and use as a normal deodorant. Men may prefer it without the lavender; simply add sage oil in place of the lavender.
Citrus Fresh Deodorant
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A fresh smell that men may prefer.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. dried sage
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. witch hazel
1 tbsp. fresh cleavers (2 tsp. dried)
1 tbsp. vodka
1 tsp. benzoin tincture (Friar’s Balsam)
Essential oils:
5 drops lemongrass
5 drops tangerine
YOU WILL NEED
• 2-FL.-OZ. SPRAY BOTTLE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/4 cup.
Keeps 3–6 months.
METHOD
Make as for Sage & Lavender Deodorant (see here).
Sandalwood Deodorant
Courtesy of Teri Evans
A musky and sexy fragrance for men and women.
INGREDIENTS
2 tsp. dried sage
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. witch hazel
1 tbsp. fresh cleavers (2 tsp. dried)
1 tbsp. vodka
1 tsp. benzoin tincture (Friar’s balsam)
Essential oils:
5 drops sage
5 drops sandalwood
YOU WILL NEED
• 2-FL.-OZ. SPRAY BOTTLE
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/4 cup.
Keeps 3–6 months.
METHOD
Make as for Sage & Lavender Deodorant (see here).
Tea Tree & Lemon Deodorant Powder
INGREDIENTS
1 cup white kaolin clay powder
1/4 cup baking soda
11/2 oz. arrowroot
Essential oils:
20 drops tea tree
20 drops lemon
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes 11/2 cups.
Keeps 1–2 years in an airtight container.
METHOD
Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl. Slowly add the essential oils, stirring continuously. Sift the powder before storing.
Lavender & Sage Deodorant Powder
Courtesy of Monika Ghent
This effective, body-friendly, underarm deodorant can also be used as baby powder. Men may prefer it without the lavender oil.
INGREDIENTS
4 oz. white kaolin clay powder
1/4 cup baking soda
11/2 oz. arrowroot
Essential oils:
20 drops lavender
20 drops sage
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes/11/2 cups.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Mix all the dry ingredients well in a bowl. Slowly drip in the essential oils, stirring constantly throughout. Sift the deodorant into a second bowl until all the powder has passed through the sifter.
You will be left with little balls of powder and essential oil. Using your fist, gently rub your hand around the sifter to break up these balls so that they pass through. Repeat the process two times. Then transfer the mixture into one or more glass jars.
Apply a dusting of the powder after washing and drying.
Luxury Shaving Cream for Women
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1/4 cup sweet almond oil (or apricot oil or jojoba oil)
2 tbsp. shea butter or cocoa butter
Water fraction:
11/2 cups spring water/filtered water
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 cup Liquid Castile Soap (see here)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
Essential oils:
5 drops rose
5 drops jasmine
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups.
Keeps at least 3 months.
METHOD
Heat the oil and butter in a double boiler for a few minutes until it looks clear.
Remove the pan and let cool. Use the lower pan of the double boiler to heat. Gently heat the water, baking soda, and liquid soap. Stir until they are completely dissolved and mixed, then add the honey and aloe vera and mix in.
Slowly mix this mixture into the oils, a little at a time. Stir continuously.
Finally, add the essential oils and blend for a few minutes. Then let stand for a few minutes and blend again. Pour into jars.
Massage a little into the skin before shaving.
Moisturizing Shaving Cream for Men
INGREDIENTS
Oil fraction:
1/4 cup sweet almond oil (or apricot oil or jojoba oil)
2 tbsp. shea butter
Water fraction:
11/2 cups spring water/filtered water
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 cup Liquid Castile Soap (see here)
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
Essential oils:
4 drops pine
5 drops rosemary
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 2 cups.
Keeps at least 3 months.
METHOD
Make and use as for Luxury Shaving Cream for Women (see here), adding the aloe vera when you would have added aloe vera and honey.
Tree Power Antiseptic Aftershave
This simple aftershave is antiseptic and strongly astringent.
INGREDIENTS
20 drops tea tree essential oil
1/2 cup distilled witch hazel
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes about 1/2 cup.
Keeps 1–2 years.
METHOD
Mix the ingredients and store.
Apply a little to skin after shaving.
Green Dragon Shaving Oil
Courtesy of Alaina Mecklenburgh
INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup almond oil
4 tsp. glycerin
Essential oils:
20 drops eucalyptus
20 drops lavender
50 drops/1/2 tsp. peppermint
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes just under 1/2 cup.
Keeps at least 6 months.
METHOD
Combine all the ingredients and store in a glass bottle.
Shake before use. Wet your face, put 5–6 drops on your hands, and apply to skin. Shave as usual.
Herby Aftershave
INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp. rosemary leaves (fresh or dry)
2 tbsp. lavender flowers (fresh or dry)
2 tbsp. chamomile flowers (fresh or dry)
1/4 cup spring water
1/4 cup vodka
1/4 cup witch hazel
1 tbsp. olive oil
MAKES & KEEPS
Makes almost 2/3 cup.
Keeps 6 months–1 year.
METHOD
Mix everything together except for the olive oil. Make a tincture (See here). After straining and pressing out the liquid, add the olive oil and bottle.
Shake before each use.
Splash a little onto the skin after shaving.