Herbal & Aromatherapy Cosmetics ~ Recipe's & Tips

[Gypsy Raven]

Hello! I hope you don't mind, but I'd like to share with you some of the recipe's and tips on how to make your own herbal & aromatherapy products! Some of them are quite old and have been passed down my family.....I may even share some of the more bazzar old Romani remedies too which should make you smile if nothing else!

PLANTS ~ CREAMS & lOTIONS:

We all know that many plants & herbs have beneficial cosmetic uses. Ive listed a few which are really good for the skin and so are best used in creams and lotions.
You can use fresh or dried herbs ~ although half the quantity if using dried.
Many of these herbs are also great for use in face packs, steams, hair treatments, soaps and in the bath. I'll also give some recepie's for those later on.

ALOE VERA ~ Sap which comes from the leaves. It is soothing and healing. (Great for sunburn).
AVOCADO ~ Contains a high level of vitamin E & A and is an excellent skin food.
BORAGE ~ Great for dry, sensitive skin types.
CALENDULA ~ (Marigold) This is a healing herb which is great for rough, damaged, problem and also mature skin types.
CHAMOMILE ~ This ia a gentle and soothing herb that softens and whitens the skin. I prefere the German Chamomile it's properties seem much more potent!
COMFREY ~ Healing & soothing, contains allontoin (a protien which speeds up cell renewal). Great again for rough, dry skin.
CUCUMBER ~ Soothing & healing, also a cleansing agent & toner.
DANDELION ~ Great for mature & sallow skin and also dry or problem skin (acne). Being a rich emollient it is very useful for cleansing lotions.
ELDERFLOWER ~ A great tonic for all skin types! (especially mature or sallow skins). A skin softener which is reputed to smooth out wrinkles, fade freckles and soothe sunburn.
FENNEL ~ Cleansing & soothing. Chewing some seeds will freshen the breath. An infusion can be made and used as an eyebath to help conjuctivitis.(sp?)
HOUSELEEK ~ Great for dry skin as it is healing, soothing and softening. (Dry, sensitive skins).
IVY ~ Relieves sunburn. It also helps to disperse trapped fluids & toxins which helps fight against cellulite.
LADY'S MANTLE ~ Healing, soothing. Sensitive skin & rough hands, a good astringent for large pores.
LAVENDER ~ A must! Healing, gentle cleanser & tonic. All skin types.
LEMON ~ An astringent, restores skin's natural acid mantle.
LIME TREE BLOSSOM ~ Soothes & softens skin. A deep cleanser.
LUPIN SEED ~ Cleanser & pore refiner for oily skin.
MARSH MALLOW ~ Healing, softener for dry, chapped skin & sunburn.
NETTLE ~ A deep cleanser, particularly good for oily skin. (also flaking scalp complaints).
ORANGE FLOWER ~ Excellent skin tonic! Restores skin's acid barrier. Great for treating dry skin, broken capilliaries & also stimulates cell replacement.
PARSLEY ~ Dry, sensitive skins, acts as a conditioner.
PEPPERMINT ~ Stimulating astringent clearing the complexion.
ROSE ~ Soothing & gentle cleanser, refining & softening to skin.
ROSEMARY ~ Tonic & antiseptic, deep cleansing & boosts circulation.
SAGE ~ Cleansing, stimulating astringent. Tightens pores.
THYME ~ Stimulating but gentle cleanser. Antiseptic.
WITCH HAZEL ~ A soothing astringent. (Distilled contains about 15% alcohol)
YARROW ~ Healing & cleansing astringent.

PHEW! Think that's long enough!! Sorry, but I think it's important to know the properties of the herbs you are using.
Next we will look at some useful 'non-herbal' ingredients.

Blessings
Gypsy Raven.

[Gypsy Raven]

AGAR-AGAR ~ Used to make gels, derived from seaweed.
ALCOHOL ~ Least irriating on the skin is ethyl alcohol, or isopropyl (sugical spirit). However you can also use vodka!
BEESWAX ~ Emulifier for oil & water creams.
BENZOIN ~ Preservative, astringent & antiseptic.
BORAX ~ Emulsifier. White crystalline mineral powder. Not used as much today & not an essential ingredient.
BRAN ~ Cleanser & exfoliation. (Face packs,body scrubs & soaps).
BUTTERMILK ~ A soothing astringent.
CALAMINE LOTION ~ Good for skin problems. Soothing alkaline.
CASTILE SOAP ~ Pure white soap, no added colour or perfume. A good base for homemade soaps. (Simple is a good one).
COCOA BUTTER ~ A rich emolient, and is the thick fat from the cocoa bean.
DISTILLED WATER ~ Use only pure water in your ingredients. I sometimes use the bottled spring/mineral water.
EMULSIFYING WAX ~ Emulsifyer. Usually comes in flakes.
FULLER'S EARTH ~ Has great absorbent properties, rich in minerals. Used for face masks.
GELATINE ~ Colourless, odourless & tasteless glue. A rich source of water-soluble protiens. Derived from boiling animal bones. (use agar agar as a vegetable substitute if you are vegetarian/vegan). Eye ointments, nail hardener.
GLYCERINE ~ Transparent, odourless syrup. Good for soaps. Mixes with water. Skin softening properties.
HONEY ~ Used to bind other ingredients together. Softening & healing.
KAOLIN ~ Great in face packs, but can be expensive as this is the purest form of clay.
LANOLIN ~ Softens & nourishes skin. Thick sticky fat from sheeps wool.
LIQUID PARAFFIN ~ Useful for barrier creams as it is not absorbed by the skin. (A mineral oil).
OATMEAL ~ Same uses as bran. Also actually polishes the skin.
PETROLEUM JELLY ~ A mineral jelly, pale yellow & translucent. Used as lip salves.
VINEGAR ~ Softens, cleanses & soothes skin. (Good for hair also).
ZINC OXIDE ~ Derived from zinc (obviously!). Mostly available as an ointment. Mild antiseptic & astringent.

Hope that is helpful! I could go into more detail but it would be far too long! Next we will look at Equipment & Preparations.
Till next time!

Gypsy Raven. X

[Kalm]

Hi Gypsy Raven,

I have just got interested in herbs etc and their uses :thumbsup:
So thanks for posting your recipes and properties I found it very interesting:D

Thanks again
Kalm

[Gypsy Raven]

The following list is only a guideline but it's important not to use aluminium, copper or non-stick pans because they contain chemicals which can effect the ingredients and the herbs beneficial properties. I use glass pans as it's easier to sterolize them. It's vital to keep all your equipment sterolized and clean. You can do this by boiling or placing in a hot oven for about 10 mins. Another good tip is to have a bowl of hot soapy water on stand-by incase you need to wipe off any wax before it hardens.
If you forget and that happens, then don't worry, just stand bowls over boiling water to remelt the wax! (it beats trying to scrape it off!)

EQUIPMENT:

Heatproof glassware or pottery cookware. (to sit in or above pans of boiling water)
Double boiler (enamel)
Wire or electric whisk
Set of measuring spoons
Glass measuring jug (not plastic)
Small funnel
Nylon sieve
Pestle & mortar
Small measuring scales
Electric blender
Juice extractor
Glass dropper
Wooden spoons
Glass rods (I sometimes use chopsticks)
Spatula

Start collecting as many dark glass bottles and jars as you can. Make sure they have airtight lids. Labels ~ I like to make my own as it just gives it that extra special touch!

PREPARATIONS:

INFUSING ~ Put one & a half handfuls - 1oz (25g) of dried herbs into a heatproof container. (remember not copper etc) Bring to the boil 1 pint (570 ml) of distilled water and pou over the herbs immediately, cover with a lid to stop any volatile elements escaping through evaporation. Steep for about 30 mins before straining. Will keep for 3 days in the fridge.
DECOCTING ~ This is for the tougher parts of herbs like roots, stems, seeds or barks. Put 1oz (25g) of the herb into a saucepan (you may have to cut or chop them first). Add 1 pint (570ml) of distilled water, bring to the boil and then simmer for 30 mins.
The liquid should now have reduced by half, you need about half a pint (275ml) so you may need to add a little more water. Cool, strain & bottle. Again, keep in the fridge and use within 3 days.
MACERATING: Some herbs can lose their theraputic value if boiled or heated, so they should be steeped in oil, vinegar or alcohol. This usually pertains to crushed, fresh herbs, which should be packed into a glass jar. Cover with vegetable oil, cider vinegar or pure alcohol (ie: vodka), seal it and leave for 2 weeks, shake the jar every day. Strain and top with fresh herbs, repeating until it smells really herby! Strain, seal & bottle.
PULVERIZING ~ Use a pestle & mortar or an electric blender to grind, mash, or bruise plant fibers and seeds.

Next will be some recipe's. About time I hear you say!

Blessings
Gypsy Raven.

[Gypsy Raven]

Hello again! Hope you are all well!
Here's a recipe that is so simple to make and is cheap too. Infact many of you will probably have the ingredients already, which is great if you are impatient like me and itching to make something now!

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 Cup (125ml) Creamy milk
2 tbsp (30ml) Chamomile flowers (fresh or dried)

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1) Heat all the ingredients together in a double boiler fo 30 mins.
Don't let the milk boil or form a skin.
2) Let the mixture infuse and cool for 2 hours bfore straining.
3) Pour into a dark glass jar or bottle with a lid, and lable as
you wish.

This will keep for one week in the fridge. Apply with cotton wool and wipe off with a tissue.

You could actually use elderflowers, sweet violets, lime blossom or even lavender flowers instead of the chamomile if you wanted to. Don't be afraid to experiement with these recipe's! Just have fun making them and they make lovely gifts for friends and family!

More to come! Till next time!

Gypsy Raven.

Keep in the fridge for no more than one week.

[Lavender]

Hi Gypsy! Thanks for posting a great list of stuff. Good to keep this as reference. :)

Can I add a few things?

Castile soap is pure olive oil soap. The name was from the Castile region in Italy that speciallized in olive oil soap. The colour of pure castile soap is an off olive/sage colour. Excellent for what you recomended.

Glycerin with no 'e' is the natural glycerin. When buying glycerin, make sure it's not the synthetic glycerine with an 'e'. Glycerin is an excellent humectant which draws moisture to your skin. I think the natural glycerin is derived from yams.

Liquid parafin & petroleum jelly are petroleun by-products. I would recomend using beeswax in replacement. Just my preference.

Thanks again, Gypsey & keep the recipes coming! :D

[Faery-Wings]

Oh wow, I am in Heaven!!!!!!:hearteyes

Thanks for sharing all this great info!

I found a neat website the other day for oils and supplies and they seemed to have decent prices. I am ready to go shopping and concocting. :p

Chris

[Gypsy Raven]

Hey thanx so much for your input guys! It's really great to get some feed back and even learn some new stuff too!

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL !!

My old Grandpoppa used to tell us some really good stories of his travels and the people he'd met. I recently came across an old book that belonged to him with lots of recipe's and remedy's for all sorts of things. Some are a little bazzar, but fun to read! There are also some hand written recepi's that I assume was written by my grandparents.
The Book is by Gipsy Petulengro and was published in 1935, so I'm not sure if it's still in print!

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Romani Tooth Powder:

1oz Powdered Cuttle Fish
1oz Prepared Chalk (crushed & ground)
1/4oz Powdered Orris Root
2 Drops of Peppermint Oil (Optional)

Mix all the ingredients together and store in a tin with a good tight lid.
Grandpoppa would always tell me that this was the 'Cooshti Chat' which means the 'real mckoy'!

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Romani Tonic Stout:

1oz Nettles
1oz Hops
8oz Black (or burnt) Malt
1/4oz Black Liquorice
2 Medium sized potatoes
2oz Brown sugar
1oz Yeast.

*If you want the 'ruby' tint, add an apple and a few rusty nails for the iron!

First add the herbs, malt and hops to ten pints of water. Boil up and add the liquorice and the potatoes. The potatoes should be washed up well but not peeled, and should be perforated with a fork or a darning needle. Gently simmer until you have about 8 pints of water left. Turn out into an earthenware pan if possible, after straining, and then stir in the yeast and the sugar, which should have been mixed beforehand with a lttle of the liquor cooled up in a cup or jug. Stir well into the liquor. Stand in a warm place for 24 hours. Skim the yeast off the top of mixture and bottle (screw-tops) putting corks in lightly at fist. 12 hours later tighten them up. Leave for a couple of days after corking and watch the beautiful creamy stout when poured out. Don't shake the bottle when uncorking.

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Well, I hope you enjoy these, they are apparently as old as the hills! So get those couldrons rocking! Happy mixing!

Blessings

Gypsy Raven. X!

[Gypsy Raven]

Hi all! Hope you had a great New Years Eve!

First step to skin care routine is to start with a facial steam. This is relaxing and very theraputic! Facial steams are cheap and easy, plus they guarantee a deep and thorough cleansing. The heat produces perspiration, which not only aids in the elimination of toxins but it also stimulates circulation. The steam softens the skin and opens the pores, helping the skin to absorb all those beneficial properties of the herbs.

Normal skin ~ a weekly facial steam
Oily skin ~ 2 -3 times a week
Dry skin ~ Once every 2 weeks

NOTE: *You should not have a facial steam if you have thread veins, serious skin disorders, asthma or other breathing difficulties, or heart problems.

I have listed below the best herbs for what, which I hope will be helpful to you.

PREPARATIONS:

Tie back your hair and remove any make up.
Put 2 handfuls of fresh herbs or 3tbsp (45ml) dried herbs into a large bowl. Pour on 3 pints (1 1/2 ltrs) of boiling water.
Stir briefly with a wooden spoon or a chopstick.
Hold your face about 12 inches (30cm) away (or about 18 inches if you have sensitive skin). Put a big towel over your head and the bowl (like a tent). Keep your eyes closed and stay under there for about 10 - 15 mins.
Rinse with 'tepid' water for a few moments then splash some cold water on your face.

BEST HERBS FOR WHAT ~ FACIAL STEAMS:

To remove impurities ~ Nettle, Fennel, Lime Blossom.

To Boost Circulation / Deep Cleansing ~ Nettle, Rosemary.

Soothing & Gentle Cleansing ~ Applemint, Chamomile, Chervil, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Rose Pettals, Spearmint, Thyme.

Healing ~ Comfrey (Roots & Leaves), Fennel.

Oily Skins ~ Calendula Flowers, Geranium (herb-robert), Horsetail,
Crushed Lupin Seeds, Sage, Yarrow.

Dry / Sensitive Skins ~ Borage, Cornflower, Housleek, Lady's Mantle, Marsh Mallow (roots & leaves), Parsley, Salad Burnet, Sorrel, Sweet Violet (flowers & leaves).

Mature or Sallow Skins ~ Dandelion, Elderflowers, Lemon Verbena, Red Clover (flowers & leaves), Tansy (flowers & leaves).


Of course this is only a brief example, as there are other herbs which can be used also. You don't have to stick to just the one herb either, I throw in a mixture, mix and match them! You can also add a few drops of essential oils if you wanted to, but that would be optional. (We shall look at essential oils later).

Hope you enjoy this!

Blessings
Gypsy Raven.

[Gypsy Raven]

Face packs or masks are brilliant for drawing out impurities from the surface of your skin. They also stimulate the circulation and tighten the skin. This is step 2 because it is extra effective when applied after the facial steam before the pores have closed!
Infact a really good tip here is to actually use some of the liquid from the steam to mix in with the mask! (Providing it's not too hot that is).

You should apply the mixture to slightly moistened skin. It would be better to then lay back with your feet higher than your head, so gravity forces blood to the facial skin. Make cooling eye pads of cucumber, cotton wool soaked in a herbal infusion or even a used herbal tea bag. Leave the mask on for about 20 - 30 mins before removing with warm water.

NOTE: *A temporary pink glow may occur, but this is nothing to worry about and simply indicates the drawing powers of the mask and increased circulation. Therefore it is not advisable to use one just before going out!

BEST HERBS FOR FACE PACKS:

Normal Skin ~ Fennel, Juniper Berries, Lady's Mantle, Lime Flowers, Mint, Nettle.

Dry / Sensitive Skins ~ Comfrey, Houseleek, Marsh Mallow.

Oily Skins ~ Sage, Yarrow, 2tbsp (30ml) of Pounded Fennel Seeds,
(to exfoliate dead skin cells/refine pores).

NON-HERBAL INGREDIENTS:

*Milk products such as creamy milk, sour cream for dry skins, and yogurt or buttermilk for oily skins.
These have mild bleaching properties and soften the skin.
*Honey for it's healing properties. (add about 5ml/1tsp)
*Lemon Juice or Cider Vinegar which help restore skins acid mantle.
*Egg Yolk for dry skin and Egg Whites for oily skin. Eggs make a great binding agent.
*Mashed Cucumber, Stawberries, Tomatoes, Lemon/Lime/Grapefruit Juice make great astringets.
*Avocado and ripe Peach are rich moiturizers.

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LAVENDER & WITCH HAZEL MUD MASK:

2tsp Fuller Earth
2tsp With Hazel
1 Egg (lightly beaten)
2 Drops Lavender Essential Oil.

Mix the fuller's earth and witch hazel to make a paste. Add the beaten egg and the essential oil.

Do not apply around the sensitive eye area. Gently remove with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel.

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STRAWBERRY & OAT EXFOLIATING FACE MASK:

2tbsp (20g) Ground Oats
3 Large Ripe Stawberries
1tsp (5ml) Single Cream.

Grind the oats to a fine powder. You can use a motar & pestle or an electric blender for this.
Mash up the strawberries with a fork and mix with the oats.
Now add enough cream to make a paste.
Apply to your face and leave for about 10 - 15 mins.
Remove with cool water and gently pat dry with a clean towel.

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Hope you enjoy these!
Till next time ~ Love n' light
Gypsy Raven.

[Chibi-Fallon]

I have a feeling I'm going to have to try all of these. ^^ I love making stuff like this. It's really kinda sad.

[Hope]

WOW! You are a wealth of cool information! :)

love
hope

[Gypsy Raven]

:wave: Merry Meet!!

Hope you are all well and had a great holiday! Sorry I've not added to this for a while, but I typed out the lot and then lost it :scream:

TONERS:

OK, so far we have steamed our faces and relaxed with a deep cleansing face pack, now it's time to tone!
Toners are sometimes called astringents, skin tonics and refreshers. For everyday use they are ideal for removing remaining traces of cleansing lotions. They also tighten pores and leave your face feeling clean and fresh! I usually have some with me for a quick pep-up during the day, and they are great in hot weather as a body spray!

Elderflower Water, Lavender Water, Orange Flower Water and of course Rose Water are the 4 classics for all skin types. They can be purchased as distilled waters (but avoid synthetics) or made yourself as a strong infusion, and will usually keep for abot 3 days in the fridge!

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ROSEWATER TONER ~ For dry, sensitive and mature skin types. Rose has great soothing properties!

1/4 pint (160ml) or just over of Rose Water
6 drops glycerine
1/4 pint (160ml) or just under of Witch Hazel.

Blend all the ingredients together in a bottle. Keep in the fridge or a cool place for about 3 days, and shake well before use.

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SAGE ASTRINGENT ~ For oily skins.

4 tbsp (60ml) Dried Sage
4 tbsp (60ml) Ethyl Alcohol (or 6 tbsp (90ml) of Vodka)
1/4 tsp (1.25ml) Borax (optional)
3 tbsp (45ml) Witch Hazel
10 drops of Glycerine.

Macerate the sage in the alcohol for 2 weeks and strain.
Dissolve the borax in the witch hazel and stir into the alcohol. Then mix in the glycerine and store in a bottle with a tight lid.
Keep in the fridge for 3 days and shake well before use.

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LEMON & GLYCERINE TONER ~ This has a mild astringent and strengthening effect on the capilliaries. *If you have thread veins apply this twice a day. The lemon also balances the skins natural acid mantle.

4 tsp (20ml) Glycerine (vegetable)
Juice od 1 Lemon
1 drop of Neroli Essential Oil
1 drop of Rose Absolute.

Mix the glycerine with the lemon juice and add the essential oils.
Store in a cool place or in the fridge.....this will keep for 3 months.

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PARSLEY WATER:

Soak fresh parsley in still mineral water overnight. (Try to use organic herbs where possible.) This parsel water can be used to tone the skin and is excellent for removing blackheads.

LAVENDER & WITCH HAZEL ~ Use lavender flowers to make an infusion with witch hazel. The antiseptic and astringent properties make it an excellent one for oily and problem skin types.

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DRY SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Chamomile, Neroili, Palmarosa, Rose, Sandalwood.
Herbal Infusions: Comfrey, Chamomile, Marigold, Marsh Mallow, Rose.

NORMAL SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Geranium, Lavender, Palmorosa, Rose.
Herbal Infusions: Elderflower, Marigold, Marsh Mallow, Rose.

OILY SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Cedarwood, Cypress, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Patchouli, Vetiver.
Herbal Infusions: Elderflower, Lemon Grass, Witch Hazel, Yarrow.

COMBINATION SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender, Ylang Ylang.
Herbal Infusions: Elderflower, Lavender, Rose.

PROBLEM SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lavender, Tea Tree.
Herbal Infusions: Comfrey, Elderflower, Eucalyptus, Marigold, Yarrow.

SENSITIVE SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Chamomile, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Rose.
Herbal Infusions: Chamomile, Chickweed, Comfrey, Marsh Mallow.

MATURE SKIN ~
Essential Oils: Lavender, Myrrh, Neroli, Olibanum (Frankincense), Palmarosa, Rose.
Herbal Infusions: Comfrey, Marigold, Marsh Mallow, Rose, Dandelion.

*Also check on previous lists, as there are so many herbs and oils it is only possible to list a selected few!

*Also please note that Frankincense & Myrrh were two of the main ingredients used by the Egyptian's in their embalming methods. Myrrh actually preserves the skin and Frankincense prevents and repairs fine lines. It is therefore two of my main ingredients for my 'anti-aging' skin creams!!

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REFRESHING SPRITZER ~ This is a facial and body spray for all skin types.

2 heaped tsp of Fresh Mint
2 heaped tsp of Fresh Dill
1 heaped tsp of Fresh Parsley
3 fl oz (85ml / 1/3 cup) of Mineral Water.

Make a strong infusion of all the above ingredients. Add the mineral water to the infusion and pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
Keep in the fridge for 2 days.

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REFRESHING FACE SPRAY ~ This is a great one for dry skin, however if you have oily skin you should use witch hazel instead of orange flower water.

3 fl oz (85ml/1/3 cup) Distilled Water
2 tsp (10ml) Aloe Vera
1/2 tsp (2ml) Orange Flower Water
1 drop Neroli Essential Oil
1 drop Rosemary Essential Oil
1 drop Propolis Tincture.

Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle. Keep in the fridge for 2 days, and shake well before use.

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Hope you like these recepe's! Now your faces should all be glowing like the sun! :sunny:
Next we will look at Moisturizing Creams!

Blessed Be!
Gypsy Raven. X!

[Gypsy Raven]

:wave: Merry Meet again!

MOISTURIZERS:

Ok, moisturizers just have to be the most popular cosmetic product, and also one of the most important part of any skin care routine! A good moisturizer should never leave your skin feeling greasy because that prevents it from breathing, and is also a muck magnet! Moisturizers should rehydrate the skin and keep it feeling subtle, and also provide a barrier against pollutions and irritants. Some moisturizers also have a built in sun screen to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. :sunny:
Moisturizers need to combine an oil for emolient properties and water for moisturizing and rehydrating. We all know that oil and water don't mix, so we have to an emulsifier such as beeswax and borax to keep the oil and water combined.
The sheer design of moisturizers to penetrate the skins surface makes them ideal to deliver theraputic ingredients, such as harbs and essential oils!

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RESTORING YOUR PH BALANCE:

Soap is one of the worst things we can use on our face, because they are very dehydrating. Here's a quickie to restore your PH balance:

1 tsp (5ml) Cider Vinegar diluted to
1 pint (600ml/2 1/2 cups) cups of mineral water.

*You could also make an extraction of Elderflowers or Lavender in the vinegar for an extra cleansing effect.

Splash on your face daily!

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LAVENDER & LEMON MOISTURIZING CREAM ~ This has antiseptic and healing properties, so is ideal for oily or problem skin.

1 tsp Beeswax (granules or grated)
5g Cocoa Butter
3 tsp (45ml) Grapeseed Oil
1/2 tsp Borax
2 tbsp (30ml/ 1 fl oz) Lavender infusion
10 drops of Lemon Essential Oil.

Heat the beeswax, cocoa butter and base oil in a bowl over a saucepan of boiling water.
Dissolve the borax in the lavender infusion. Slowly add the infusion to the oil mixture, stirring constantly.
When the mixture has cooled down, add the essential oil.
Store in a dark glass jar. Keep in the fridge for about 2 months.

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AVOCADO & NETTLE MOISTURIZER ~ For Oily skins.

1 tsp (5ml) Beeswax (granules or grated)
2 tsp (10ml) emulsifying wax
8 tsp (40ml) Hazelnut Oil
4 tsp (20ml) Avocado Oil
1/8 tsp (0.65ml) Borax
2 tbsp (30ml) Strong Nettle Infusion
4 drops of Cedarwood Essential Oil.

Melt all the waxes together in the same method as above. Warm the oils and then gradually beat them into the waxes.
Dissolve the borax into into the warm infusion, and slowly beat into the waxes and oils mixture.
Allow to cool before mixing in the essential oil. Spoon into dark glass jars and keep in a cool place for about 2 months.

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RICH MOISTURIZER ~ For Dry skin types.

*Add this also before taking a bath, as the steam will help the skin to absorb the oils and moisture in the cream!

*Also makes a good night cream for those with normal skin types.

2 tsp (10ml) Beeswax
2 tsp (10ml) Emulsifying Wax
1 tbsp (15ml) Lanolin
2 1/2 tsp (12ml) Avocado Oil
1/2 tsp (2.5ml) Wheatgerm Oil
1/2 tsp (2.5ml) Glycerine
4 tbsp (60ml) Rosewater
1/4 tsp (1.25ml) Borax
6 drops of Neroli Essential Oil.

Melt the beeswax, emulsifying wax and lanolin in the same method as above. (o a double boiler). Warm the avocado and wheatgerm oils with the glycerineand then gradually beat into the waxes. When it become creamy remove from the heat.
Dissolve the borax in the warmed rose water, and dribble into the cream, beating constantly. Keep stirring until the mixture cools and thickens.
When cool add the essential oil.
Spoon into dark glass jars and keep in a cool place for abour 2 months.

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GERANIUM & APRICOT MOISTURIZER ~ For Normal to Combination skin types.

1 tsp (5ml) Beeswax
5g Cocoa Butter
1 tbsp (15ml / 1/2 fl oz) Grapeseed Oil
1/2 tsp Borax
2 tbsp Rose Petal Infusion
10 drops Geranium Essential Oil.

Heat the beeswax, cocoa butter and base oils in the same method as above.
Dissolve the borax inthe rose pettal infusion, and slowly add to the oil mixture, stirring constantly.
When cooled, add the essential oils.
Spoon into dark glass jars and keep in a cool place for about 2 months.

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COMFREY & CALENDULA MOISTURIZER ~ For all skin types.

*Add 3 drops each of Frankincense & Myrrh essential oils instead of the Petitgrain, also add 1 tsp of Carrot Oil for mature skin!

1 tbsp (15ml) Beeswax
1 tbsp (15ml) Lanolin
1 tbsp (15ml) Cocoa Butter
1 1/2 tbsp (22ml) Calendula Oil
1 tsp (5ml) Glycerine
1/4 tsp (1.25ml) Borax
2 tbsp (30ml) Comfrey Leaf infusion
6 drops Petitgrain Essential Oil.

Melt the beeswax. Melt the lanolin and cocoa butter together, and gradually stir into the beeswax.
Warm the calendula oil and glycerine and slowly stir into the first mixture.
Dissolve the borax into the warm comfrey infusion, add to the mixture, stirring constantly.
Continue stirring until thick and creamy. Leave to cool before applying the essential oils.
Spoon into dark glass jars and keep in a cool place for about 2 months.

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IVY CELLULITE CREAM ~ For those bottoms and thighs!

2 tsp (10ml) Beeswax
1 tsp (5ml) Emulsifying wax
3 tsp (15ml) Almond Oil
1 tsp (5ml) Avocado Oil
4 tbsp (60ml) Double strength Ivy decoction
8 drops of Oregano Essential Oil
8 drops of Fennel Essential Oil
8 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil.

Melt the waxes as in the above method. Warm the oils and stir well into the waxes.
Beat in the Ivy decotion. Allow to cool before stirring in the essential oils.
Spoon into dark galss jars and store in a cool place for about 2 months.

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Next we shall look at some old Romani Remedies !

Love n' stuff

Gypsy Raven X!

[Gypsy Raven]

Hello it's me again! :wave:

Some of these recipe's are bit way out but they should at least make you smile! :lol:

Taken from the book of Gypsy Petulengro. (1935) which belonged to my Grandparents.

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ROMANI BALM ~ The secret of the Albanian and Romanian Zingari Gypsies.

4 oz of fat from the kidney of a pig
1 oz of cuttings from the 'frog' of a horses hoof
1 houseleek
1 oz scrapings from the bark of an elder tree.

Place altogether in an enamelled pan over a slow heat. Stir while the fat is sizzling, then strain off (after half an hours simmering) into a clean jar and use on any sores, skin-complaints, cuts, boils, bruises etc.

*Gypsy Petulengro adds: "During the summer of 1934, a lady who had suffered with a terrible skin-complaint fot 19 years made her own ointment fromthis Romani recepi and cured herself with it, after many expensive treatments by doctors had failed.

(Horse hoof clippings can be obtained from any farrier who usually just throws them away).

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GYPSY BEAUTY OINTMENT ~ Gypsy Petulengro.

2 1/2 oz Spermaceti
1/2 pint Almond Oil
1 oz White Wax
1/4 oz Benzoin
1/2 oz Prepared Calamine.

Melt together in a gentle heat. Strain through a very fine sieve (rubbing it through if difficult to strain) and keep in airtight jars.
Use freely at night. In the daytime, use sparingly as a base for face-powder.

*He adds "This wonderful skin food is used by the beautiful 'Romany Chis' all over the world."

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GYPSY BEAUTY CREAM ~ A fine remedy for blackheads!

1oz Red Dock Root
2oz Cold Cream
2oz Pure Pork Lard
2oz Elderflowers.

Place the lard in an earthen jar, cut up the dock root, add with the elderflowers to the lard. Heat for one hour. Strain, add the cold cream, and mix well together until cold.

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GYPSY FOOT OINTMENT ~ This ointment is used by nomads of the Balkan States, who's main method of transport is walking.

4oz Tallow
1oz Powdered Sulphur
10z (fluid) Olive Oil.

Melt together and stir well while it is cooling. Rub a little on the feet before a walk. No corns will ever appear if you use this!

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ROMANI REMEDY FOR RHEUMATISM ~ Called 'Decoctium Tarascaci'

Dandelion Root

Boil one ounce in 1 1/2 pints of water for 20 mins, making up to one pint after allowing for evaporation. Strain.
**Dose: A wineglass of the liquor twice daily.
(This is also good for liver disorders).

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ROMANI REMEDY FOR COUGHS

1/2 pint of White Vinegar
2 oz Honey
1/4 oz Black Liquorice
1 Lemon.

Place the vinegar and the liquorice (broken up fine) in a basin. Put into a very hot oven and stir until liquorice dissolves. Add honey, and when cooling add the juice of the lemon. Instead of putting into the oven, the vinegar and liquorice can be boiled in an enamelled pan over a very gentle heat on a gas stove.
**DOSE: Take a teaspoonful whenever the cough is troublesome. It is an excellent thing for children with weak chests and is a preventative as well as a cure!

We had to que up for a spoonful of this when we were children! (it was much nicer than the codliver oil!) :nonono:

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Well I hope these made you smile. I love really old recipe's and remedies from days gone by, and if any of you have any I would love to hear them!

Till next time!
Gypsy Raven X!

[WandererInGray]

Bump. *smiles*

[mothwench]

Thanks! These are all great! (tho i don't think i'll be brushing my teeth with cuttlefish :;): )
one question: alot of your recipes have nettle in them. which one? urtica?
bb, the mothwench

[BellaWild]

These are so frikkin' awesome! :) Thanks!!

[healeri2]

Right now I'm making an oil infusion of St. John's wort. I think I ended up getting the whole herb rather than just the flowers. Will this infusion still be effective? I'm planning on using it in lotions.

[Mab]

OMG! I'm going to have to print this whole thread! I have been playing around with making my own skin care for months now, and I needed some direction, as I've kinda hit my limit with "flavoring" castile soap & making my own facials & toners. I've been wondering about making my own soaps, lotions, creams, moisturizers, etc. I'd really be interested in a good deep facial or cleansing agent for my face & a seriously hydrating hand cream.

[healeri2]

My infusion is not red at all. I know that the hypercin in the St. John's Wort flowers is supposed to make it red. Mine is just darker in color, but hasn't changed much from the extra virgin olive oil I used. It's smells just like the herb though. I'm wondering about the effectiveness now since it doesn't look as I suspected. I've seen what it looks like when it's red, and it looks really quite red to me, but mine, looks nothing like that. I guess maybe I'll have to make sure I just get the flowers of St. John's wort next time and not the whole herb. Any input on this here?