SAVORY CRANBERRY FACIAL WASH 1 Tablespoon Dried Savory Leaves, Crushed 1/2 Cup Boiling Water 1/2 Cup Cranberries

Home , Bottle keep, Cold cream, Cupping therapy, Toner (skin care)

Homemade Recipes Alpha Hydroxy Acids

• glycolic acid - sugar cane Brown Organic • lactic acid - milk Goat milk • malic acid - apples and pears Pear • citric acid - oranges and lemons Lime • tartaric acid - grapes Red Grapes

SAVORY CRANBERRY FACIAL WASH 1 tablespoon dried savory leaves, crushed 1/2 cup boiling water 1/2 cup cranberries

Steep the dried savory in boiling water in a small bowl, for fifteen minutes. Strain the liquid and set it aside. Puree the cranberries in a blender, and strain the fruit from the liquid. Discard the fruit, and save the juice. Combine the savory water and the cranberry juice, soak into cotton pads, or a fine textured washcloth, and press against your face for fifteen minutes, avoiding the eye area. Remove pads or cloth and rinse with warm water.

GENTLE HONEY CLEANSER This cleanser is simple and effective. The soap gently cleans, the glycerin prevents drying and the honey not only softens the skin, but its antimicrobial properties can help ward off breakouts. A touch of honey is all you need for healthy, glowing skin. Combine 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon liquid soap, 1/2 cup glycerin in a small bowl until fully blended. Pour into a clean plastic bottle. Pour onto clean face sponge or soft cloth and gently rub onto face, wash away with warm water and pat face dry. Enjoy fresh radiant skin.

ALMOND FACIAL MILK The herbal waters are antiseptic and toning. Grapefruit seed extract is available in health food stores, and is included in the recipe as a preservative.

• 1/2 cup rose, lavender, or distilled water • 1 teaspoon pure vegetable glycerin • 1/4 to 1 teaspoon cold pressed organic almond oil • 12 drops grapefruit seed extract

Make the rose or lavender water by placing a small handful of dried organic rose petals or lavender in a pint mason jar and adding boiling water to cover. Let steep overnight, then thoroughly strain. Combine the remaining ingredients in a glass jar and shake to blend. Dab some on your fingers or a cotton ball and massage into your skin. Rinse with warm water. Keep stored in the refrigerator for no more than a month or so. Discard at the first sign of mold.

APPLE SKIN TONER Intended for slightly oily skins, we're told by our skincare team that Apple Toner is an excellent substitute for rubbing alcohol (a real no-no, as it actually stimulates the oil glands to produce more oil).

Combine 2/3 cup witch hazel, 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar, and several drops of Lavender Essential Oil (or essential oil of your choice).

Mix, and add to clean bottle. Shake bottle well before using, and then dampen a cotton ball or pad saturated with your toner, and swab over face. Witch hazel is a gentle astringent, apple cider vinegar will help restore your skin's natural ph balance, and lavender soothes sensitive skin.

Cucumber- Honey Toner 1 medium Cucumber, peeled and cut up into pieces 2 tsp. Honey

Puree cucumber in a blender. Line a sieve with cheesecloth and set the sieve over a glass bowl or measuring cup. Pour the cucumber puree through the sieve and let it stand for 15 minutes for the juices to drip into the bowl. Pour the clear juice into a clean bottle and add honey.

To use, shake the bottle and saturate a cotton pad with the lotion. Sweep over face, neck and chest morning and night, and let it air dry (about 3 to 4 minutes). Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Makes about 1/2 cup.

CUCUMBER EYE GEL #1 1/4 large cucumber 1 ounce aloe vera gel

Puree the cucumber in a blender (Ieave a little pulp), strain the mixture into a glass bowl until you have at least 2 ounces. Spoon in just a tad of the pulp from the strainer). Add the aloe vera to the cucumber puree in the bowl and mix lightly. Pour into a clean, sterilized container. After cleansing face, stir mixture gently and apply with a cotton ball to undereye area. Avoid the eyeball. The shelf life of this product is very limited by the fresh cucumber. It should be used within a few days, and kept refrigerated between uses.

CUCUMBER EYE GEL #2 1 Tbs. aloe vera gel 1 tsp. fresh cucumber juice ¼ tsp. cornstarch 1 Tbs. witch hazel

Mix together aloe, cucumber and cornstarch. Heat until just boiling, about 1 minute in microwave. Remove from heat source and stir in witch hazel. Stir well and allow the mixture to cool completely. You should have a clear, jelly-like cream. Spoon into a small clean jar. To use: Dab a small amount under your eyes and be careful not to rub or pull the delicate skin under your eyes. Keep in cool place. Makes 1 oz.

QUICK CUCUMBER EYE SOOTHER 2 wafer thin slices of cucumber 1 warm, damp, clean washcloth While reclining in the tub (and perhaps while using the Quick Cucumber Parsley Facial, above, place one cucumber slice over each eye. Cover your eyes with a warm washcloth and relax for 10 minutes. Fine lines will smooth out and your eyes will feel refreshed and soothed, preparing you for a night's rest. We recommend this particularly if you've had yourself a crying jag that day.

AVOCADO CARROT CREAM MASK This mask combines avocados, which are rich in Vitamin E, with carrots, which are high in beta- carotene and antioxidants, and cream, which is high in calcium and protein. These ingredients will rebuild skin collagen, improve tone and texture, and fade age spots.

1 avocado, mashed 1 carrot, cooked and mashed 1/2 cup heavy cream 1 egg, beaten 3 tablespoons honey

Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Spread gently over your face and neck, and leave in place 10-15 minutes. Rinse with cool water and follow with your favorite toner.

Avocado Dry Skin Masque Beat the yolk of an egg until it is light and frothy, then add the mashed pulp of a half avocado, blending it well (you may use a blender at this point). Cleanse your face thoroughly before using this masque (or any masque). Spread the avocado mixture over the face and neck evenly; relax on a slant board or bed for about 20 minutes. Remove with clear tepid water and a face cloth, followed by a rinse of cold water or a mild skin lotion. The result should be a marked improvement in skin texture, and all-around revitalizing.

Avocado Oily Skin Masque California Avocado Commission Put the white of an egg, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and the mashed pulp of a half avocado into a blender. In seconds, you should have a lovely green mixture. Wash your face and neck thoroughly, then apply masque evenly on those areas. Relax for 20 minutes; remove with tepid water and a face cloth. Follow with cold astringent or skin tonic.

SENSITIVE SKIN CUCUMBER MASK 1 tablespoon brewer's yeast 1 tablespoon finely ground oatmeal 1 whole cucumber 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or sour cream 1 teaspoon honey

Mix together the yeast and oats in a small bowl and set aside. Peel the cucumber and place it in a small food processor and process until only liquid remains. Add the yogurt and honey and process further to mix. Add the brewer's yeast and oats to the cucumber/honey mixture and process to mix fully.

To use, apply to clean face and neck skin and leave on for anywhere from 15 minutes to a half hour. Rinse well and follow with toner and moisturizer.

GRAPEFRUIT & PARSLEY FACE MASK Grapefruit and parsley are both effective and refreshing astringents, perfect for oily skin.

3 tablespoons very fine oatmeal (whirl oatmeal in a food processor, if necessary) 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1/2 large grapefruit olive or sunflower oil

Mix 3 tablespoons of very fine oatmeal with two tablespoons of chopped parsley in a bowl. Add juice from half of a large grapefruit until you have a soft paste. Let the mixture rest 5 minutes. Spread soft mixture over your face and let dry for approximately 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Follow with toner and moisturizer.

PAPAYA PUMPKIN FACIAL If you have visited spas and resorts in exotic locales such as the Pacific Rim, Bali, Hawaii, and Tahiti, you've probably seen a facialist select and mash fresh fruit in front of you for a fresh-on-the spot enzyme mask. It's easy to recreate this mask at home -- we've found a Balinese mask for you which will leave your face fresh and glowing.

• 2/3 cup fresh papaya, mashed • 15 oz. can pure pumpkin • 1 egg, beaten

1. Prepare the mask. Cut the papaya in half and scoop out the seeds. Scoop out the papaya fruit and mash it well to eliminate lumps in the mask. Beat the egg until it is frothy. Combine that with the papaya. Add the pumpkin to the egg/papaya mixture and whip together. You can also mix the ingredients in the blender or a food processor for an extra smooth mask. 2. Prepare your face. Wash with your daily cleanser and remove all residual makeup on your skin. Rinse with warm water. It's very important to have clean skin to ensure you get maximum benefits from the facial. 3. Apply the Mask. Cover your entire face, being careful to avoid the immediate eye area. If you have sensitive skin, test the mixture on your hand before spreading it on your face. You'll feel some tingling as the enzymes in the pumpkin go to work immediately -- gently exfoliating your top layer of skin. It works like a scrub without being abrasive to your skin. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes. 4. Rinse Off Mask. After you've relaxed for ten minutes it's time to rinse. The mask is fairly thick -- head for the kitchen sink. 5. Apply Toner & Moisturizer.

QUICK CUCUMBER PARSLEY FACIAL 1 Tbsp. Plain yogurt 1 Tbsp. Cucumber 1 Tbsp. Parsley

Puree (or use your handy rotating chopper -- you know you bought one) the cucumber and parsley finely and mix with the yogurt until smooth. Cover your face with this creamy mask. This will rejuvenate your skin as it moistens. Leave the mask on for approximately 15-20 minutes for best results. Rinse with water. Do not store this mixture. Especially over a long weekend. Ginger Skin Creme Ginger invigorates, and oil soothes. Try this double dose for dry skin.

• 2-inch piece of fresh ginger • 2 teaspoons light sesame oil • 2 teaspoons apricot kernel oil • 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil • ½ cup cocoa butter

Preheat oven on lowest setting. Finely grate the ginger just enough so that you have about an 1/8 teaspoon of ginger "juice." To obtain the juice, squeeze the freshly grated ginger over a small bowl. Place the ingredients (including the ginger) in a glass container and heat just until the cocoa butter is melted and the oils are blended. Pour into a clean, dry container and store in a cool dry place. You can add a few drops of orange or other essential oil for a nice twist.

GENTLE HONEY CLEANSER

This cleanser is simple and effective. The soap gently cleans, the glycerin prevents drying and the honey not only softens the skin, but its antimicrobial properties can help ward off breakouts. A touch of honey is all you need for healthy, glowing skin. Combine 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon liquid soap, 1/2 cup glycerin in a small bowl until fully blended. Pour into a clean plastic bottle. Pour onto clean face sponge or soft cloth and gently rub onto face, wash away with warm water and pat face dry. Enjoy fresh radiant skin.

COLD CREAM

Cold cream was first developed by Galen, a 2nd century Greek physician, in his service as an attendant in a local temple to Asclepius, the Greek God of Medicine and Healing. One of Galen's primary roles was to tend to the Gladiators following "games." He developed a great many healing treatments, cold cream among them.

Galen's cold cream contained olive oil (for softening), water, beeswax (the base of the cream), and rose petals (for aromatherapy). It was called called "cold cream" because after it was applied to the skin, its water content evaporated, which left a cool feeling on the skin. Commercially manufactured cold creams have long since replaced the olive oil with mineral or other oils, which will not spoil as rapidly.

Some recipes for cold cream will contain borax; others will not. Borax is a natural ingredient, and acts as both an antiseptic and a preservative. A reaction occurs when added to recipes containing beeswax -- it turns the concoction a creamy white color.

BASIC COLD CREAM

1 ounce grated beeswax or beeswax pellets 6 tablespoons light mineral oil 4 tablespoons distilled water 1 teaspoon borax 2-3 drops of your preferred essential oil In a double boiler or clean class dish in a microwave, combine beeswax and mineral oil. Gently heat and stir until melted and well blended. While melting, dissolve your borax in the distilled water and heat it gently -- do not boil. Remove both pans or dishes from the heat source, and, stirring constantly, slowly drizzle the distilled water and borax solution into your wax and oil solution. When fully combined, begin to beat vigorously until it has cooled. Add your essential oil and continue to beat until your cream is light and airy, with a brilliant white sheen. Store in clean glass jars, preferably in the refrigerator. The borax is a simple preservative, but your cream will keep best in the refrigerator, for approximately 3-6 weeks.

HONEY COLD CREAM

40g (approximately 1.5 ounces) fresh, good quality cold pressed safflower oil 40g (approximately 1.5 ounces) ) distilled water 10g (approximately 1/3 ounce) beeswax pellets or grated beeswax** 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon borax, if a white cream is desired, otherwise, optional

**Be aware that some people are allergic to beeswax. Exercise caution.

1 heat resistant microwave safe bowl with lid 1 hand whisk or wooden spoon 1 teaspoon or dropper Kitchen scales Heat resistant pot (small) to contain the cream Ice cube trays Freezer Storage Container

Instructions

Combine safflower oil and beeswax pellets or shavings into a clean, dry bowl. Microwave on low, gently, until the beeswax has melted.Slowly drizzle the teaspoon of honey into the oil mixture, beating thoroughly. A dedicated blender or food processor works fine (dedicated meaning you keep a spare one for craft projects, and you do not use it for food preparation).Using a teaspoon or dropper, slowly drop minute amounts of distilled water into the oil/wax/honey, whisking quickly the entire time. Once you have incorporated all of the distilled water into the mixture, allow your cream to "settle" for at least five minutes. Water which has not incorporated will settle to the bottom, and the cream layer will rise to the top. Drain off and discard this lower layer of water.Gently spoon one teaspoon of "cold cream" into each well of a clean, dry ice cube tray. Freeze until solid. (Optional: Spread a large, loose piece of plastic wrap over the try for easy removal of the cubes at one time).Remove frozen cubes from the tray and place them into an airtight freezer storage container, or ziplock bag.

To Use:

Each evening, remove a frozen cream cube from your freezer, and place into your "daily pot." An empty, clean cosmetic pot works well. Thaw overnight, in your refrigerator, and use the cool, chilled cream within 24 hours. Repeat the process each evening, or, as often as you feel like a smoothing lift. This remedy is particularly nice on hot summer evenings when your face needs both a moisture boost, and a cooling treatment.

Please keep your cold cream frozen and refrigerated at all times -- there are no preservatives and this method will preserve the shelf life.

Strawberry Cream (for oily or normal skin)

• 1/2 oz. white beeswax • 1 1/2 oz. sweet almond oil • 1 oz. apricot kernel oil • 1 oz. strawberry juice (or apricot or peach or honey-dew melon) • 8 drops tincture of benzoin

Wash, drain, and mash 4-5 large strawberries. Squeeze out the juice and strain through muslin or cheesecloth. Heat the beeswax and the oils together in a double boiler until the wax is melted. Remove from the heat and add the juice quickly. Beat the mixture until it is fluffy. Add the benzoin and beat until it is cool. You must beat the mixture until it cools or else it will separate.

Strawberry Hand and Foot Exfoliant

• 8-10 Strawberries • 2 tablespoons Apricot Oil (you may substitute olive oil) • 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, such as Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt

Mix together all ingredients, massage into hands and feet, rinse, and pat dry. Strawberries contain a natural fruit acid which aids in exfoliation.

HONEY OATMEAL FACIAL

1/4 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk 1/2 cup oatmeal 2 tablespoons of honey

Finely grind or process the oatmeal in a blender or food processor. Set aside. In a small bowl, stir together honey and yogurt, and then add ground oatmeal. Mix thoroughly until a smooth paste consistency has been reached. Smooth over your face and neck, leave on for fifteen minutes, and rinse off with warm water. Can be used daily.

SharAmbrosia Kelp Firming Masque This mask treatment will help to soften and firm your skin at the same time.

• 3 T Yogurt • 1 tsp. Organic Powdered Kelp • 1 tsp. Honey

Place 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt into a small dish. Add the powdered Kelp, stir well. Add the honey and stir until all three ingredients are blended into a smooth consistency. To use: Cleanse face, apply the mask all over face, neck and shoulder area. Massage lightly (the Kelp acts as beauty grains to promote exfoliation). Leave on for about 5-10 minutes. Remove with a warm washcloth. Use a tonic or hydrosol on a cotton ball for complete removal. Apply your moisturizer as usual. Kelp contains iodine, so those with iodine allergies should not use this mask.

NEW ZEALAND KIWI ASTRINGENT FOR OILY SKIN

1 cup boiling water 1 ripe kiwi fruit, peeled and mashed 1 tablespoon vodka

Pour the boiling water over the mashed kiwi fruit in a heavy ceramic bowl and let sit until cool, which is about 20-30 minutes. Strain the mixture well to remove all fruit solids. Add the vodka and stir. Apply to the skin with a clean cotton pad. You may rinse your face with cool water if you have sensitive skin. Store in the refrigerator and use within 10 days.

KIWI FACIAL CLEANSER FOR NORMAL OR DRY SKIN

1 kiwi fruit 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt 1 tablespoon orange water 1 tablespoon apricot or almond oil 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon finely ground almonds 2 drops orange (or your favorite citrus) essential oil

Puree the kiwi fruit in a food processor until liquid. During processing, add yogurt, orange water, almond or apricot oil, and ground almonds. Process until thick and cream like. Add essential and stir to mix. To apply, massage gently over neck, face and décolleté to cleanse. Rinse well. Makes one application.

MANGO ALOE FACIAL TONER

This overnight treatment will help reduce redness as the result of sunburn and windburn.

• 1 cup aloe vera gel, gilled • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mango • 1 lime, juiced

Puree the aloe vera gel, chopped mango, and the juice of one lime. Chill mixture, and apply to face at night with clean cotton pads. The toner will feel slightly sticky from the exfoliating sugars in the mango. Leave on overnight, and rinse in the morning with cool water. Keeps for approximately 2 weeks.

OATMEAL BLUEBERRY MASK

This easy mask, used once or twice monthly, will both deep clean and exfoliate your face. It's particularly beneficial for oily skin, as it drying and pulling effect.

1 cup oatmeal 1 cup blueberries 1 tablespoon honey 5-6 almonds, whole

Puree all ingredients in a blender until finely blended. Spread mixture over your face, and allow to set and dry (10-15 minutes). Rinse with warm water, and splash your skin with cool water or toner. This mask be may stored in your refrigerator for up to one week, covered tightly.

PINEAPPLE OLIVE OIL MASK

Pineapple contains bromeliad, a protein-digestive enzyme which helps rid the skin of dead cells and dirt. It also counteracts histamines, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is a mild astringent. Olive oil has excellent healing properties and is a good source of vitamin E, which restores the skin's surface. Use only the highest quality cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil -- it should go without saying that bread dippers and flavored oils ought be left on the shelf. Reach for the good stuff!

In a blender, combine 4 large pineapple chunks or 1/2 cup canned, drained pineapple and 3 tablespoons olive oil. Blend until almost smooth. Apply mixture to face with fingertips and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse face with warm water and pat dry.

THYME AND FENNEL SEED CLEANSER FOR NORMAL SKIN

Fennel has been used throughout history as an aid to digestion or as a slight diuretic. As an infusion, fennel seeds can be gently cleansing and toning for the skin, and they can help reduce puffiness and superficial irritation. Thyme, which is used in antiseptic preparations, is a good astringent. Because this cleanser is very gentle, it can be used each morning. Dab it on your face and neck with a cotton ball, and rinse.

2 sprigs fresh thyme, crumbled (or 1/2 T dried Thyme) 2 teaspoons fennel seeds, crushed 1/2 cup boiling water Juice of Half Lemon

Mix the thyme and fennel seed in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Add lemon juice and steep for 15 minutes. Strain the infusion and store the liquid in a jar, in the refrigerator.

FOR THE BODY

Antiperspirants work by clogging, closing, or blocking the pores with powerful astringents -- such as aluminum salts -- so that they cannot release perspiration. Many natural health care proponents argue against using aluminum because it accumulates in the brain and can cause breast cancer in women and men.

Deodorants work by neutralizing the smell of the perspiration mixed with "body dust" (skin, hair and other bacterial goodies we carry around on ourselves all day), and by antiseptic action against that bacteria. Deodorants are more healthful because they don’t interfere with perspiration, a natural cooling process.

Here are a few simple recipes, which are fun to make because they can customized with your favorite scents. We don't always have to smell "powder fresh" or "sunshine fresh." I prefer ylang ylang, myself.

• Baking Soda: Baking soda works wonders because it neutralizes the odor of sweat. Just sprinkle a light covering of baking soda onto a damp washcloth. Pat on. Don’t rinse. • Basic Deodorant Powder: 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup cornstarch, a few drops essential oils such as lavender or cinnamon, or try cedar and sage for men. Place the ingredients in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Sprinkle a light covering of the powder on a damp washcloth. Pat on. Do not rinse. • Basic Liquid Deoderant:1/4 cup each witch hazel extract, aloe vera gel, and mineral water, 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin, a few drops antibacterial essential oils such as lavender, or tea tree. Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake to blend. Makes 3/4 cup with an indefinite shelf life.

DRY SKIN CRÈME

1/2 cup water 1/2 cup sesame seed oil 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil 2 tablespoons grated beeswax 3 drops essential oil of grapefruit 2 drops of aroma oil (optional, your choice) a pinch of borax

Blend the vitamin E oil, beeswax and sesame oil. Heat on low until melted. Combine the water, oils and borax. Heat for a few minutes (until warm) but do not boil. Combine the water mixture with the beeswax mixture. Mix well (at least 2 minutes). For a fluffier cream, use an electric mixer or a blender. Pour the cream into a clean container after it has cooled completely.

END OF SUMMER ALMOND BODY SCRUB

As the end of the summer season approaches, many of us are sporting that attractive tell-tale sign of fun in the sun: Peeling skin. Spa Index has an excellent recipe for an Almond Body Scrub to gently and thoroughly exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells. Body scrubs feel wonderful and relieve the itch of flaking skin.

• 2/3 cup ground almonds • 1/3 cup oatmeal • 1/2 teaspoon of herbs (lavender, chamomile, etc) (optional) • Plain yogurt, milk, or buttermilk, sufficient to make a paste • Essential Oils for scent (optional)

Combine the dry ingredients in a blender or food processor until they are reduced to a coarse meal. Keep this "scrub base" in a glass jar with a screw top in your refrigerator until ready to use. When you want to use the scrub base, scoop out 1/4 cup into a small bowl, and stir in enough of the liquid ingredients (vary it by what you have on hand -- yogurt and milk are best, but water works) to make a paste. Yogurt and milk are natural exfoliates known as alpha hydroxy acids, and they will slough off dead skin cells even without the scrub. Scoop up the paste with your hands or a washcloth, and rub over your body to exfoliate peeling skin. Rinse thoroughly.

GINGER SKIN CREME

Ginger invigorates, and oil soothes. Try this double dose for dry skin.

2-inch piece of fresh ginger 2 teaspoons light sesame oil 2 teaspoons apricot kernel oil 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil ½ cup cocoa butter

GLYCERIN AND HONEY SUGAR SCRUB

1 cup fine loose salt or loose sugar 3 teaspoons liquid glycerin 1 teaspoon pure honey 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil Optional: Pinch of lavender blossoms (available in the bulk department of good health food stores), or chamomile, or dried herbs of your choice, chopped exceedingly fine.

Mix ingredients well and store in an airtight container. Add more liquid ingredients if you prefer a thinner end-product. Stir thoroughly before use. This keeps very well, and in fact, the honey acts as preservative. Use small amounts when scrubbing the nose, being careful not to irritate or get it in the eyes. Scrub elbows, hands, knees, and feet. Rinse in warm water, pat dry, and apply your favorite lotion afterward.

Tip: Use Liquid glycerin as a skin moisturizer when we don't wish to use oil. This is particularly helpful when we want to scrub nose crevices, without introducing oil to the face. Liquid Glycerin is a by-product of soap making, and can be found at health food stores. Its also readily available on the internet as well. Do a patch test to be certain you can tolerate the glycerin, if you find you have sensitivities. In addition, consider substituting all honey. It never spoils, and makes a good long- term scrub which may be stored.

GRAPEFRUIT SPA SALT GLOW

1/2 cup fine mineral salts 1/2 cup fine dead sea salts 8 oz Macadamia nut oil 40 drops ruby red grapefruit essential oil 20 drops lemon essential oil 10 drops ylang ylang essential oil Stir essential oils into the macadamia nut oil. Add the salts and mix well. Pour into a hinged tight sealing jar. You can substitute the Macadamia nut "carrier oil" with other carrier oils (i.e. pistachio oil, sweet almond oil, hazelnut oil or a mixture of oils). To obtain radiant skin with intense moisturizing, swirl your salt glow with your fingertips or spoon to blend. Scoop out a generous amount and apply with hand, washcloth or loofah to entire body. Step into shower stream & watch your salt glow bead up and roll off your skin. For a comfortable shave, apply your salt glow prior to shaving, then rinse. Avoid any cuts or scrapes on your skin.

GRAPEFRUIT SUGAR SCRUB

1-1/2 cups white table sugar 8 drops grapefruit essential oil 2 drops red food coloring (optional) 1/4 cup jojoba oil 1/4 cup liquid castile soap Place sugar into a large bowl and stir to break up any clumps. Add the essential oil. Add one or two drops of red food coloring if you'd like it pink! Mix very well to make sure the color is evenly dispersed. Add the jojoba oil and Castile soap next, a little at a time, stirring after each addition. Mix well and the pour into clean container. To use, stand in the tub or shower and massage the sugar scrub onto your skin from head to toe. Rinse. Inhale. Smile.

MOISTURIZING BODY SCRUB

• 1/2 cup liquid glycerin • 1/2 cup water • 2 1/2 to 3 cups sugar or salt (white sugar, brown sugar, or table salt) • 1 teaspoon solid coconut butter or solid coconut oil • 6 drops of essential oil of your choice, or combine several (not to exceed 6 drops)

Combine glycerin, water, and one cup of sugar or table salt until the salt/sugar has mostly dissolved. Add the remainder of the sugar/salt until you have a rather pasty mixture, at a consistency you prefer. Meanwhile, melt the coconut butter or oil in a small container, in your microwave. MELT, but do not overheat. Stir the melted coconut oil into your sugar mixture, and stir well. Last, add the six drops of essential oils of your choice, stirring to blend. Melt and add more coconut butter or oil to reach your desired consistency. Transfer your mixture to an airtight container or jar, and cool until slightly thickened. Use as an after shower or after bath moisturizing body scrub.

HAIR REMOVER - BODY SUGARING

Juice of 1/2 a lemon 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup honey cornstarch clean cloth cotton strips wooden stick or spreader

Dust the area to be waxed, with cornstarch. Combine the first three ingredients in a clean glass bowl, and microwave for two minutes. Stop and stir your sugar mixture every 20-30 seconds. Let it cool to a comfortable warmth, and, using a wooden stick, spread a very thin layer onto your clean skin. Immediately cover the mixture with a strip of cotton fabric. Briskly stroke the strip several times in the direction of the hair growth, and then, pull the skin taut, and quickly rip away the cotton strip, against the direction of hair growth. As you proceed, you may need to reheat your sugar mixture in the microwave to keep it warm. Do not boil it or overheat as you could easily burn your skin.

FOR THE HANDS AND FEET

Avocado Hand and Foot Treatment

Mix together 1/4 to 1/2 mashed fresh avocado, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon rice bran, and 10 drops of oil of evening primrose. Gently massage this treatment onto your hands and feet, and leave in place for 20 minutes. Rinse. This natural treatment will revive your dry, wrinkled and rough hands, feet, elbows and knees. The avocado and egg nourish the skin with proteins and oils; the rice bran exfoliates dead skin cells; the oil of evening primrose contains precious gamma linolenic acids, essential for healthy hair, skin and nails. Consider purchasing a small jar of Oil of Evening Primrose capsules from your health food store. Open one, and voila...you have the ingredient for this recipe.

COCOA BUTTER HAND AND FOOT CREME 1/2 cup almonds 1/2 cup dry oatmeal 4 tablespoons cocoa butter 3 tablespoons honey

Process the almonds in a blender or coffee grinder until coarsely ground. In a bowl, combine oatmeal, cocoa butter, honey and ground nuts. Rub into your hands and feet, cover with cotton gloves and socks, and leave on overnight. The next morning, remove the gloves and socks and rinse. You'll be delighted with your incredibly smooth skin. This remedy is ideal for soothing hard- working hands and feet because it gently exfoliates old, dead skin and nourishes new cells.

FYI - Cocoa Butter is pressed from the cocoa bean as a byproduct of the chocolate manufacturing process. Unaltered food-grade cocoa butter has a pleasant chocolate smell and is readily available online from handmade soap product suppliers. We've grated cocoa butter into our own bath water for soft winter skin, since cocoa butter is an excellent emollient, leaving your skin soft and smooth. Unlike other oils that penetrate into the skin, cocoa butter remains on top and lays down a protective layer, preventing the skin from drying out.

Apricot Oil-Lanolin Cuticle Cream

1/2 tsp apricot kernel or emu oil 2 tsp lanolin 1 drop essential oil of your choice (optional)

Melt oils together, add essential oil, pour into jar or small pots and let set. To use, massage into cuticles

Cuticle Cream.

1 T. fuller's earth (a natural clay substance) 1 tsp. olive oil 3 drops lavender essential oil

Mix into a paste and put into a sterile ointment jar or small pot. Massage into nails and cuticles.

Cuticle Softener 1 tsp. olive oil 1 tsp. vitamin E oil

Combine and massage into nails and cuticles.

LAVENDER HAND AND FOOT WASH

Use this wash to relieve red and inflamed hands and feet.

1/2 cup dried Lavender Flowers 1/2 cup finely chopped Fresh Sage 2 cups of water 8 drops of Lavender Oil

In a saucepan, combine lavender flowers, sage and water. Simmer, covered, on low heat for 20 minutes. Strain mixture through cheesecloth and let cool. Discard the solids, retain the liquid. Add Lavender Oil, shake to emulsify, and then apply to hands and feet with a soft wash cloth or cotton pads. Repeat as necessary, or desired.

OH, MY ACHING FEET

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tsp. of Aloe Vera 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil 20 drops of peppermint Essential Oil 20 drops of eucalyptus Essential Oil

Mix together and massage feet gently with this soothing ointment, or, add to a basin of very warm water, and soak. Finish by lightly dusting the feet in corn starch.

OVERNIGHT FOOT MASQUE

1/4 cup Almonds 1/4 cup Dry Oatmeal 3 tablespoons food grade Cocoa Butter 2 tablespoons Honey

Process almonds in a blender or coffee grinder until finely ground. Set aside. In the same blender, pulse your oatmeal until of the same consistency. In a bowl, combine ground oatmeal, cocoa butter, honey and ground almonds. Rub into your clean feet, step into cotton socks, and leave on overnight. The next morning, remove the socks and rinse feet in cool water. Pat dry. We recommend you not remove the socks until you're standing in the tub!

STRAWBERRY HAND AND FOOT EXFOLIANT

8-10 Strawberries 2 tablespoons Apricot Oil (you may substitute olive oil) 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, such as Kosher Salt, or Sea Salt

Mix together all ingredients, massage into hands and feet, rinse, and pat dry. Strawberries contain a natural fruit acid which aids in exfoliation.

WINTER HAND MASK

3 tablespoon oatmeal 2 tablespoons rose water 2 teaspoons almond oil

Crush and mix all ingredients in a mortar with a pestle. Then, heat mixture gently -- just to the warm stage, in your microwave. Carefully apply your mask to your winter sore hands, wrap in cling film, or, a clean towel. Allow to remain on your hands until cool. Rinse. Stores very well.

WINTER HAND THERAPY

Winter often means dry, cracked, chapped hands -- a seasonal hazard. Our hands are first exposed to indoor dry heat and then exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. Often, your favorite or regular moisturizer seem less effective. Here are some tips to help your hands this Winter, as well as a fun bath recipe to try and share with a friend. Who doesn't enjoy an aromatic bath on a cold winter's night?

1. Drink plenty of water and consider using a humidifier to add moisture to your environment. 2. Wash Gently. Detergent-laden soaps are drying to the skin, so try a milder herbal soap. 3. Switch Moisturizers. In the summer when living is easy and humidity high, a light moisturizer is fine. However, when winter arrives, you need heavy duty hand care to soothe and rehydrate. Keep your hand cream accessible -- in your purse, at your desk, in your kitchen, on the bathroom vanity, and by your computer monitor and television. Apply often. 4. Pamper your hands with a few home spa treats. Once a week, try our super-moisturizing treatment: Soak your hands in hot water with a few tablespoons of baking soda, for thirty minutes. Dry your hands, and apply our Winter Hand Mask as directed, below.

FOR THE BATH

AROMATIC MILK BATH

Use this mixed concoction immediately after making it, for soft and silky skin.

1 egg 1/2 cup light olive oil 1 tablespoon glycerin 1/2 cup dried milk powder 1 drop jasmine essential oil 1 drop rose essential oil 6 drops lavender essential oil 2 cups distilled water

Beat together egg, olive oil, glycerin and milk powder with a whisk or hand held beater. While beating add essential oils. Continue beating until a smooth paste forms. Add the water a little at a time, continuing to beat. Immediately add to your warm drawn bath (be careful...if the water is too hot you'll make scrambled eggs).

APHRODISIAC BATH BLEND

Whip up an Aphrodisiac Bath Blend to relax the mind, while the properties of the essential oils stimulate sexuality and euphoria.

2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons fresh cream 4 drops ylang ylang essential oil 3 drops neroli essential oil 2 drops bergamot essential oil

Combine all ingredients in warm bath water and soak.

Lavender- Honey Milk Bath

• 3 T dried Lavender flowers* • 1 1/2 cups whole mild, cream, or combination • 1/3 cup Honey

Process lavender flowers in a blender until they become a powder, turning off the blender and scraping down the sides as necessary. Whisk together lavender powder, milk and honey in a glass bowl, then pour into a jar. Before each use, shake the jar and pour half of the mixture into the bath. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Makes enough for 2 baths.

*Dried lavender flowers can be found in the spice section of gourmet and specialty stores.

BATH COOKIES

2 cups finely ground sea salt 1/2 cup baking soda 1/2 cup cornstarch 2 T light oil 1 tsp vitamin E oil 2 eggs 5-6 drops essential oil of your choice

Preheat your oven to 350 F. Combine all the listed ingredients and form into a dough. Using a teaspoon or so of dough at a time, roll it gently in the palm of your hand until it forms a ball. Form all dough into one teaspoon balls, and gently place them on an ungreased cookie sheet. Consider sprinkling the bath balls with herbs, flower petals, cloves, citrus zest and similar aromatic ingredients. Bake your bath cookies for ten minutes, until they are lightly browned. Do not over bake. Allow the bath cookies to cool completely. To use, Drop 1 or 2 cookies into a warm bath and allow to dissolve. Yield: 24 cookies, enough for 12 baths.

CHAMOMILE MILK BATH A SKIN-SOFTENING TREAT FOR DRY, WINTER SKIN

4 cups powdered milk 1 cup boiling water 1/2 cup dried chamomile or 5 chamomile tea bags

Steep chamomile in water for 20 minutes Strain liquid. Mix liquid with powdered milk and add to running bath water.

ROMAN BATH SOAK

1 cup of fine grade oil (consider sesame, olive, apricot, or avocado oil) 1 cup of mild shampoo or liquid castile soap 1/2 tsp. of fragrance oil or essential oil of your choice

This is easy but indulgent soak which is ideal for winter dry skin. Combine all of your ingredients in a clean bottle or jar. Shake vigorously before each use, and dispense one to two tablespoons into your rapidly running bath water. You'll find the addition of mild shampoo helps to both emulsify and disburse the oil liberally throughout the bath water, for even distribution and coverage on your skin --- instead of the tub.

ROSEMARY HERBAL BATH

1/4 cup dried, crumbled sage 1/4 cup dried, crumbled rosemary 2 tablespoons of oatmeal 2 tablespoons of dried parsley 2 tablespoons of coarse bath crystals

Grind or thoroughly mix the ingredients together and secure in a muslin or cheesecloth bag, and tie so that your "tea bag" hangs directly beneath your flowing bath tap. Fill your bath with warm water that steeps these herbs designed to relieve mental fatigue (rosemary), treat loss of concentration (sage), soften water (oatmeal), stimulate the body (parsley), and alleviate light-headedness (salt).

FOR THE LIPS

CRANBERRY HONEY LIP GLOSS

Protect sensitive lips from the drying winter elements with this simple yet rich lip balm. Delightful to wear alone or on top of your lipstick for extra shine! Gather 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil, 10 fresh cranberries, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 drop of vitamin E oil . Mix all the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for a couple of minutes or until the mixture just begins to boil. (Bowl may also be heated in a pan of water on a stovetop). Stir well and gently crush the berries. Cool mixture for five minutes and then strain through a fine sieve to remove all the fruit pieces. Stir again and set aside to cool completely. When cool, transfer into a small portable plastic container or tin. Apply a small amount onto your lips and remember to smile!

LEMON LIP GLOSS

1 tsp Honey 1 T Vitamin E Oil 1 tsp. of Aloe Vera 2 tsp of grated beeswax 1 T pure almond extract 6 Drops of Lemon Essential Oil

Melt beeswax, remove from heat and while constantly stirring - Add honey, Aloe Vera, Almond extract, Vitamin E. Add the Lemon essential oil last.

SharAmbrosia Chamomile Lip Balm

• 1/2 tsp. Macadamia Nut oil • 1/2 tsp. Jojoba oil • 1 tsp. lanolin • 1/2 tsp. Cocoa butter • 1/2 tsp. Beeswax • 1/2 tsp. Chamomile flowers (dried)

In a double-boiler, melt 1/2 tsp. Macadamia Nut oil, 1/2 tsp. jojoba oil, 1/2 tsp. lanolin and 1/2 tsp. Cocoa butter until it is liquefied. Add 1/2 tsp. of dried Chamomile flowers and stir gently for about 10 minutes. Strain the mixture with a very fine sieve into a small Pyrex ramekin and clean the area of the double boiler where you had the mixture (Dry the area well). Pour the new strained mixture back into the double boiler and reheat. Add another 1/2 tsp. of lanolin and 1/2 tsp. of beeswax shavings. Heat and stir until liquefied completely. Remove from the heat and pour into a 1/2 oz. amber or cobalt container. This is enough for personal use. To use on dry hands, or to give as gifts, you'll want to double or triple this recipe.

This is a very soothing formula that has real "staying" power.

FOR THE HAIR

CUCUMBER HAIR DRENCH

If you swim in a chlorinated pool for exercise on a regular basis, the same damage you've noticed happening to your skin and bathing suit, is happening to your hair, as well. Try this treatment at home to keep chlorine damage to a minimum.

1 egg 1 half-eggshell's worth of olive oil (i.e., one portion of the eggshell you broke apart) 1 quarter of a peeled cucumber

Blend the egg, olive oil and peeled cucumber in a blender or food processor until smooth. Spread evenly through your hair, leave on for 10 minutes, then thoroughly rinse. For the best results year-round, continue this treatment monthly.

ROSEMARY HONEY OLIVE OIL HAIR CONDITIONER

This nourishing conditioner blends two ingredients from nature -- honey for shine and olive oil for moisture -- and is enhanced with essential oil of rosemary to stimulate hair growth.

• 1/2 cup honey • 1/4 cup warmed olive oil (2 tablespoons for normal to oily hair) • 4 drops essential oil of rosemary • 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum (available in health food stores)

Place all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly. Pour into a clean plastic bottle with a snug-fitting cap.

To use, apply a small amount to your slightly dampened hair. Massage your scalp and work the conditioner through your hair until it is completely and evenly distributed. Next, cover your hair with a warm towel (your microwave or dryer can heat it up) or shower cap; leave the conditioner in place on to nourish and condition for 30 minutes. Remove the towel or shower cap; shampoo lightly and rinse with cool water. Dry as normal and enjoy shinier, softer and healthier hair the natural way.

FOR MEN

AFTER SHAVE 1

1/4 cup witch hazel 1/2 cup distilled water 1 tbsp olive oil 1/2 cup dried herbs or zest (lavender flowers, chamomile, rosemary, sage, or citrus zests) and/or a few drops of your choice essential oils -- consider rosemary, lavender, sage, eucalyptus, cedar, juniper, cinnamon, or clove. Cedar and Sage makes a wonderful combination, according to our male members on staff.

Combine ingredients in a glass jar. Cover and place in a dark fairly cool place to steep. Shake the jar once or twice a day. Repeat this process for two to three weeks. Strain out the added products, and store the after shave in a spray bottle or other bottle.

AFTER SHAVE 2

1/2 cup witch hazel 2 tbs vodka 2 tbs dried chamomile flowers

FOR TEENS

APPLE HONEY FACIAL MASK

Ingredients:

• 1 medium size apple (grated) • 5 tablespoons of honey

Directions: Mix the grated apple and mix with honey to make a mask. Smooth over skin then let sit for 10 minutes, rinse off with cool water.

LEMON FACIAL MASK

2 tablespoons sour cream 1 teaspoon finely ground oatmeal 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1 drop lemon essential oil Cucumber slices (optional)

Mix the sour cream, oatmeal, lemon juice and essential together in a bowl. To use, massage over clean face and neck skin and the rest for 10 minutes (with cucumber slices if you have them) over your eyes. Rinse well with warm water and follow with toner and moisturizer.

Always use Lemon Facial Mask immediately for best results -- the lemon juice will cause the sour cream to curdle if it is not used quickly.

The Tofu Facial for Acne

Apparently, tofu is soothing and good for acne. It is supposed to be safe even for sensitive skin. Actually, it was good on my skin. My skin felt really clean and smooth after that. I had a small pus filled pimple before I tried that facial. I was in a hurry after that and did not examine my skin after that. That evening, I noticed that little pus filled pimple was gone.

Caution:Before using the mask, apply some on the inside of the wrist. If it itches or feels irritated, skip the facial. if at anytime, your skin feels itchy during this facial, stop immediately and rinse off with lots of water.

Before you start

1. Wash your hands with soap and water. 2. Wash all the bowls, whisk, utensils, spoons, cups and whatever equipment you will be using for this facial with soap and water. Sterilise these with boiling water. (Note: do not boil glass items as these can crack and the splinters can injure you. Certain plastics can melt if boiled so watch out for that). Make sure all surfaces you use for preparing this facial are clean. Remember. For home facials, hygiene and cleanliness is all important. 3. Put 2 tablespoons of rice flour and 2 tablespoons of fresh taufa in a bowl. Mash the tofu well into the rice flour and mix to form a soft paste. (Taufa is the soya bean curd that is ready to eat with sweet syrup. Don't add the sweet syrup to your mask though.) This is the tofu mask. 4. Fill a kettle with water and set that to boil. 5. Wear a hair band or shower cap to keep your hair off your face. 6. Now you are ready for your facial.

The facial

1. Cleanse your face with your regular cleanser 2. Tone it with our regular toner, if you usually use one. 3. Dry your face with a clean towel. 4. Pour boiling water into a bowl. Add 3 drops of lavender oil to it. 5. With the towel forming a 'tent' over your head and the bowl, keep your face about 20cm above the bowl. (Caution: Skip this step if you are an asthmatic. The steam could trigger an attack. Skip this step if you have thread veins. The heat could worsen your condition ) 6. Relax and let the steam cleanse your face for 10 minutes. 7. Apply the tofu mask over your face, avoiding your eye area. 8. Put 1 slice of cucumber over each eye 9. Relax until the mask is dry to touch. 10. Remove the cucumbers and the tofu mask. 11. Wash your face with lots of water. 12. Tone your face with toner again.

GERANIUM ZIT ZAPPER

For best results, take a few minutes and steam your face over a bowl of steamy herb broth consisting of roses, sage, thyme, and chamomile. Ingredients: 1 teaspoon green clay 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon yogurt or sour cream 1 drop rose geranium essential oil

Combine all ingredients to mix well. Add essential oil last and mix well.

To use, spread the Zit Zapper mask on your skin, kick back, and let it sit for an hour. Rinse off with warm water, finish with a splash of cool water.

Banana Moon Facial Mask- recipe This fabulous recipe reflects a wealth of age-old wisdom, and will leave any type of skin feeling refreshed and pampered. There’s just nothing like giving yourself this easy-to-make facial using ingredients that are likely to be in your kitchen year-round.

The ingredients will nourish, soothe, and gently exfoliate your skin. And they sound good enough to eat!

Simple Solution:

INGREDIENTS

1 banana, just ripe 1 tablespoon honey 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon wheat germ oil 1 tablespoon finely powdered oats 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, if mask will not be used immediately) 1 drop each rose and Melissa essential oils (optional)

1. Peel and mash banana. Add honey, egg yolk, wheat germ oil, oats, and lemon juice, if used, and mash further to form a smooth, creamy paste.

2. If mask is too thick, add a bit of distilled water, and stir until smooth.

3. Add essential oils last, and stir to mix well.

4. To use, apply to clean face and neck, avoiding eye and mouth areas. Rest for 10 minutes, or longer if your skin is very dry. Rinse with warm water, and follow with toner and moisturizer, if desired. Use mask within a few hours of making.

3 Times a Week Banana Anti-Aging Mask

Bananas are one of the most nourishing fruits available because they contain large quantities of magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamins A, B (folic acid), E, and F.

Simple Solution:

Here they are teamed with heavy cream (traditionally used to prevent wrinkles) and organic honey in a recipe crammed full of nutrients.

INGREDIENTS 1 small banana 2 tablespoons fresh heavy cream 1 tablespoon organic honey 1 tablespoon oat flour bottled or spring water rose hydrosol (see "Note," below, about hydrosols.

METHOD Mash the banana, using the back of a fork, and then add cream, honey, and flour. Stir to mix well. You may need to add a little more cream or flour to obtain the consistency of thick cream of yogurt.

Apply mask to the clean face, including the area around the eyes and the neck, and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse off with bottled or spring water and cotton pads, and dab on a little rose hydrosol, allowing to dry naturally.

Effect: nourishes Skin types: dry, aging Frequency of use: 3 times a week Shelf life: 6 hours in refrigerator Preparation time: 5 minutes Treatment time: 30 minutes

Note about hydrosols: Also known as floral waters (but not flower waters), hydrosols are a byproduct of steam distillation, created while extracting essential oil. Hydrosols have properties similar to those of their related essential oils, although inevitably in a less concentrated form, but they are enriched with various water-soluble active ingredients. Their gentleness makes them an excellent way to tone, hydrate, and rebalance the pH of the skin, so they are frequently recommended as final cleansers/toners after cleansing or nourishing masks.

The Queen of Hungary's Water - Recipe

Astringents are used to remove excess oil from the skin. In addition, they tone the skin and help prepare it for moisturizing. While they are especially appropriate for oily skin, any type of skin can benefit from using the pore- tightening effectss of an astringent.

Simple Solution: This wonderful astringent lotion has been hailed as the first herbal product to ever be produced and marketed. Legend has it the early Gypsies formulated it and claimed it to be a cure-all. Whether or not it is I hardly know, but I do know that it is an excellent astringent for the face (both rose water and witch hazel are light astringent tonics) and a great rinse for dark hair.

I think in some ways it is one of the world’s finest cosmetic formulas. It combines gentle, common herbs in a masterful way; it’s easy and inexpensive to make, and very versatile. The Gypsies claimed it was good as a hair rinse, mouthwash, headache remedy, aftershave, foot bath, and who knows what else! I have seen this same formula bottled in exotic little bottles and sold in expensive department stores for a fancy price. You can make it for the cost of a few herbs and a bottle of vinegar.

6 parts lemon balm 4 parts chamomile 1 part rosemary 3 parts calendula 4 parts roses 1 part lemon peel 1 part sage 3 parts comfrey leaf vinegar to cover (apple cider or wine vinegar) rose or witch hazel extract essential oil of lavender or rose (optional)

1. Place all herbs in a widemouthed jar. Add enough vinegar to come about an inch or two above the herb mixture. Cover tightly and let sit in a warm spot for two to three weeks.

2. Strain. Reserve the liquid. To each cup of herbal vinegar add 1/2 - 1 cup of rose water or witch hazel. Add a drop or two of essential oil, if desired. Rebottle. This product does not need to be refrigerated and will stay preserved indefinitely.

Homemade Fruit Acid Skin Care Alpha-hydroxy Acid (AHA) fruit acid skin care products are easy to make at home. Fruit acids loosen the "glue" between dead skin cells, and the cells fall away, leaving your face very smooth and soft.

Simple Solution:

You will be amazed at how something as simple as dabbing some fresh lemon juice on your face every morning can make an enormous difference in how soft your skin feels. Try any of the following fruit acids, but always take care to avoid your eyes.

Here are three simple plant acids examples to use for your skin: 1. Lemon juice. 2. Strawberries. 3. Grapes.

MORE HYDROXY ACIDS Malic acid (apples, vinegar, applesauce, cider);

lactic acid (buttermilk, yogurt, powdered skim milk, sour cream, blackberries, tomatoes);

tartaric acid (grapes, grape juice, wine, cream of tartar);

citric acid (citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruit, and orange); or glycolic acid (sugar cane). Just dab some of the liquid on your face with your fingertips, let set for ten minutes or so, then rinse. Note, too, that your skin can get sunburned more easily when you use fruit acids, so make certain to use sunscreen.

Secret Mayan Skin Toner Decoded! Formula

This ancient Mayan beauty formula is an impossibly easy-to-make skin toner that rivals if not exceeds anything store-bought. This time of year is a perfect time to introduce you to this wonderful toner, since it is made with harvest ingredients such as cucumbers and carrots, easily picked up at most Farmer's Markets, or better yet from your own garden.

Simple Solution:

Cucumbers have the same pH as the skin, and its juice is very softening and emollient. Carrots are rich in vitamin A and minerals that nourish and heal the skin, helping to keep it from aging. The herb spearmint stimulates and cleanses the skin with its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, and chamomile is not only rich in minerals, but helps prevent wrinkles, is moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory. Add a little lemon juice, and you are set. I've learned some tips and suggestions, as this is one of my favorite formulas in 'Better Basics for the Home'.

A good time to make this toner is when the harvest is bountiful. If you don't own a juicer, borrow one to make large batches. You can also make just a week's worth of this toner at a time.

Zazil Toner 1/4 cup cucumber juice 1/8 cup carrot juice 1/2 cup spearmint infusion 1/4 cup chamomile infusion (avoid if you are sensitive to ragweed) 1/2 cup lemon juice

Make the cucumber juice and carrot juice. Make strong spearmint and chamomile teas, and let cool. Combine all the ingredients in a glass jar and shake to blend. If you freeze the mixture in ice cube trays, just pop out a cube and rub it over your face, then put the cube in the refrigerator and use the toner over the next few days.

Natural Skin Peels Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) skin care products are easy to make at home because they are made of fruit and other ingredients we may have in the frig or kitchen cupboards.

Simple Solution:

Fruit acids are great for the skin because they loosen the glue between dead skin cells, and the cells fall away, leaving the face very smooth and soft. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to produce fabulous results for your skin that you would imagine only the most expensive and sophisticated products you could buy could do. Not only that, but AHAs are found in fruit and vegetables you may already have in your kitchen or growing in your garden, so you don?t need to worry about any synthetic chemicals that may cause harm. The famed beauty Cleopatra unknowingly used the benefit of AHAs on her skin when she bathed in milk. Try any of the following fruit acids, but always take care to avoid your eyes. Avoid using these homemade peels if your skin is sunburned, and before going into the sun.

Malic acid: Apples, vinegar, applesauce, cider Lactic acid: Buttermilk, yogurt, powdered skim milk, sour cream, blackberries, tomatoes Tartaric Acid: Grapes, grape juice, wine, cream of tartar Citric Acid: Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruit, and orange Glycolic acid: Sugar cane

All you need is about one half a teaspoon of liquid per face cleansing. You can freshly squeeze the juice of one lemon, for example, and refrigerate the leftovers for the rest of the week. Just dab some of the juice onto your fingers and pat on your face. Leave on for 10 minutes or so before rinsing. If you are in a rush, just cut a grape or strawberry in half-whatever you happen to have on hand-and rub it over your skin; let the juice set for a few minutes, and then rinse.

Preservatives for Beauty Formulas

It is important to preserve homemade beauty products, such as creams for your face and hands, so that the products last more than a couple of weeks, and bacteria doesn't grow.

Simple Solution:

I think that the easiest way to preserve kitchen cosmetics is to use grapefruit seed extract, found in health food stores, and used by some personal care product manufacturers such as Aubrey Organics. This choice would be expensive for producing gallons of creams and lotions, but for small batches it is by far the most convenient. Use 6 drops per ounce of cream of oil, or 1/3 teaspoon per cup. You can also use antiseptic essential oils such as rose, clove, rosemary or lavender. Only use small amounts. Per ounce of cream or oil, use 3 drops or less (eye area), 5 drops or less (face), or 25 drops or less (body).

Ancient Egyptian Art of Body Sugaring

Body sugaring is a method for removing body hair that is a cheap, homemade alternative to waxing (or shaving). The theory behind body sugaring is that the hair is removed by the root, and when it grows back there will be less of it, and it will be softer and not stubbly as it is if a razor had been used.

Simple Solution:

Body sugaring is done by making a paste of sugar, water, and lemon juice that has been heated to the softball candy stage.

After you have let the paste cool enough so that it won't burn, you spread it on your skin, cover it with cotton strips of cloth, and then rip the cloth off like one does a bandaid. Most find sugaring less painful than waxing.

Due to many requests from readers for this recipe, I have looked hard for what I have finally found and give you here, what I think is the best formula:

INGREDIENTS 2 cups sugar 1/4 cup lemon juice ¼ cup water

Equipment: Candy thermometer

Combine the ingredients in a heavy saucepan, and heat on low using a candy thermometer. Watch the mixture very carefully so that it doesn't boil over. Heat the mixture to 250 F on the candy thermometer; this is the hardball candy stage.

Remove from the heat and let cool enough to pour into a jar without breaking or melting the jar. (Note that this jar will be reheated in the future. Make sure it is safe for whatever for of reheating you plan to do -- in the microwave, or in a pan of water. Rip clean cotton fabric in 1" inch strips. Make sure the cotton isn't too coarsely woven.

This next step is very critical: let the mixture cool enough so that it won't burn your skin. The first time I did this I didn't let the blend cool enough and I burned myself! Test the mixture on the palm of your hand, knowing that is much tougher than the sensitive skin under your arms. Using a dull knife or Popsicle stick, spread the cooled sugar onto your skin. Cover with the cloth strips, let set for a few minutes, and then rip off quickly as you would a bandaid.

In the future you can reheat the mixture to a warm and not hot temperature (see above), and reuse. Note that reheating will thicken the paste.

GUIDE TO CLAYS FOR DRY SKIN: If you choose to use a clay, use a white clay such as French white, or use kaolin or bentonite (light gray); these are least drying.

FOR OILY SKIN: Use green or red clay.

TO NOURISH THE SKIN: Use a mineral-rich black clay from the Dead Sea

Magic Mint Mask - Formula

Here is a delightfully fresh-smelling recipe that sloughs off dead skin cells, absorbs excess oil, and makes your pores appear smaller. Fresh mint--easily available at this time of year--adds its invigorating green power to this miracle mask.

Find out how to make sweet and simple magic from the summer garden for lively, lovely skin!

Simple Solution:

INGREDIENTS

10 large peppermint leaves 1/3 cup water 1 tablespoon white cosmetic clay

1. Add the peppermint leaves and water to a blender and mix until green and frothy. Strain.

2. In a small bowl, add mint liquid to the clay and stir until a spreadable paste forms.

3. Spread onto a clean face and throat and let dry. Rinse.

Lular Body Polish Tradition of Central Java for many centuries beginning with the 17th century

Ingredients: Small bowl of favorite body oil 30 gms (2 tsp.) of rice powder finely ground rice 10 gms (2tsp) of turmeric 5 gms (1 tsp) sandalwood 3 drops of jasmine oil Splash of water 500 gms (2cups) of natural yogurt A handful of fragrant flowers like rose, jasmine, ylang-ylang, or whatever flowers you like. The rice powder and turmeric and sandalwood are ground together in a pestle and mortar or purchased as packaged powder.

To Use: Massage your body with your favorite oil, and then pulverize the spicy ingredients into a brown granular past, with a little bit of water. Apply mixture onto your body, and let dry.

Once it dries, gentry rub the past off the body in order to polish the skin. Rinse off in the shower. Then put the natural yogurt all over your body. The yogurt will restore the PH balance to your skin, and moisturize it. After you are completely rinsed off, soak in a warm flower filled bath.

Coconut Body treatment for sensitive skin Ingredients: Half a young coconut fresh, and grated 1/3 tsp of turmeric powder (you may also use 1 cm of the turmeric root, but need to grate it) 1/32 lb. Of carrots, grated or blended 2 tbsp of gelatin, made

To make: Mix the fresh coconut with the turmeric, and then gently rub the mix all over your body. Leave on for 5 minutes and wipe off with a wet and warm washcloth. Mix up the carrot and gelatin and apply it to the skin. This helps to condition your skin after the treatment.

Thai Herbal Wrap Mix the following to make a paste – amounts to your choosing White Thai mud Chiva-Som, Milk, turmeric, Marjoram Herbs of your choice, Sesame oil Spring water

Wrap body in a plastic sheet and top with towels. It will make you perspire for 20 minutes. This Thai mud mix draws out any infection or impurities from the body and heals blemishes too.

Foot Treatment

Honey Milk cleansing lotion 10- pieces of Kemiri nut or candle nut 3 tbs of honey 4 tbsp of water Blend the nuts and water together for 2 minutes Using a fine mesh cheesecloth strain the milk. Save the meat of the nut and 2 tablespoons of the milk for the flower mask. Add the honey to the milk and mix well. Use!

Flower Foot Mask 5 tbsp Kaolin powder 2 tbsp kemiri nut milk 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp of ground cloves 1 tsp of ground ginger Handful of pandanus leaves, hibiscus, frangipani or other flowers such as rose, finely chopped 5 drops of lavender essential oil

Mix kaolin powder, kemiri nut milk, ground cinnamon, cloves and ginger, Pandarus leaves or other flowers, and the lavender essential oil together into a paste that is dry but usable. The more kaolin used the faster the mask will dry and the cooler it will feel on your feet.

Pedicure instructions: Wash your feet in a tub with a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Make sure you dry them properly between the toes to remove moisture.

Using cotton or wool, rub the honey milk cleansing lotion all over each foots. The nut content is both astringent and deeply moisturizing while the honey both exfoliates some of the finer dead skin and softens it. Keep rubbing your feet with the kemiri nut scrub; be sure to rub the soles of your feet. This will make your feet feel tingling. Wipe away the scrub with a warm cloth and remove the traces with some more honey milk cleaning lotion. Scoop the flower mask in the palm of your hands and pat it around your feet to cover entirely, to your ankle so it looks like clay boots on your feet. This will tighten and cool your feet. Leave it on for about 20 minutes then rinse with warm water. Complete with a foot massage using rich carrier oil like avocado, sesame or olive, plus a few drops of essential oil of your choice.

Bali Foot soak: Fill a bowl of water and fill it with flowers and oil of eucalyptus.

Essential oil foot soak 3 drops of each oil thyme, vetivier and sage for skin smoothing. Flowers are added to wash away bad luck. Do not make the water too hot and soak for 10-15 minutes for maximum effect. Follow by massaging your feet with a rich oil like coconut, olive or avocado oil.

Beach Sand Foot Scrub

2 Tablespoons Canola oil 2 Tablespoons beach sand 3-5 drops rosemary oil

Combine and mix into a paste using a fork. Massage scrub onto feet, concentrating expecially on problem areas. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.

Protective Lotion

2 tsp. castor oil 1 tsp. lanolin 1 1/2 tsp. cocoa butter 800 IU Vitamin E 5 drops lavender EO 3 drops tea tree EO Melt the castor oil, lanolin, and cocoa butter over boiling water. When melted, remove from heat. Whisk the Vit. E into the mixture. When cool add the EOs, mixing well. Store in a bottle or jar.

CALIFORNIA AVOCADO CLEANSER AND MASK

1/4 ripe avocado 1/2 C. buttermilk 1 beaten egg yolk

Blend avocado with egg yolk and buttermilk. Apply to face and throat and leave on for 5 minutes. Spread on a little more. Leave on for another 5 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.

Orange Poppy Body Scrub

Ingredients: 1/2 cup of olive oil 1/2 cup of poppy seeds 1/4 teaspoon of orange essential oil

LEMON SOAK (for dry, rough feet)

1 bowl warm water Juice of 1 lemon

Add lemon juice to warm water in bowl. Soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes.

LUSCIOUS BODY POLISHER

2 C. plain yogurt 1 T. wheat germ 1 T. honey 1 T. almond oil

LAVENDER BUBBLE BATH

1 bunch Lavender

1 large bottle clear, organic shampoo

5 drops oil of Lavender

Clean wide-neck jar with screw top

Place Lavender head down in the jar. Cut down to fit. Add shampoo and Lavender oil. Close and place in sunny window for 2-3 weeks and shake occasionally. Strain and re-bottle. Use 1 tbsp in a bath.

BATH SACHET

1 cup oatmeal (not instant) ½ cup rosemary leaves (or substitute lavender thyme, lemon verbena...or your favorite herb) ¼ cup rose petals

Mix the ingredients together and, for each sachet, place a few tablespoons in the center of a six-inch square of lace, cheesecloth or muslin. Bring the four corners

Bath Salts

4 cups Epsom salts 2 cups sea salt this is considered base salts essential oils for scents Glycerin if desired

Mix the two salts together and use as base. Take 2 cups and scent as Desired with oils. Glycerin will soften skin, but place warning tag on NOT FOR USE IN JACUZZI’S. Store in zip lock bag for two weeks, shaking daily. After 2 week period is up, pour into pretty jars and decorate.

Lip Gloss

Materials Needed: • Paraffin wax • Coconut oil • Petroleum jelly • Candy melts (to color the gloss and make it taste sweet) • Oil-based candy flavoring (if you want a special flavor) • Grater • Wax paper • Ziploc bag • Small container (recycle old makeup containers or 35mm film containers, or look in stores that carry beads, crafts, or fishing tackle) Instructions: Grate some paraffin wax onto wax paper. Measure ¼ teaspoon grated wax into the plastic bag. Add 1 teaspoon coconut oil, 1 teaspoon petroleum jelly, and 1 candy melt. Add 1/8 teaspoon oil-based candy flavoring if you like. Seal the bag and carefully put it in a bowl of hot tap water to melt ingredients, about 3-5 minutes. (Use tap water! Never use a microwave or stove to heat the water). Once all the ingredients are melted, remove the bag from the water. Squish ingredients around in bag to mix; work quickly! Clip off a tiny corner of the bag and squeeze gloss into the clean container. Let it set for an hour, or put it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. There you go! Use a cotton swab instead of your finger to apply gloss. Your lip- gloss should last a long time. If it changes color, odor, or texture, though, throw it away. together and tie in the middle with a washable ribbon, making sure that the mixture is secure in your bath. Tie the bag to hang as sachet. Each bag can be used several times before it needs refilling. Oatmeal is very good for the skin but by itself is not particularly attractive, which is why I add rose petals. The Rose petals complement the oatmeal and add a little more fragrance to the mix.

Bayberry Spice Jar Potpourri

3 Cups Rose Leaves – Whole 1-1/4 oz 2 Cups Angel Wings – (White) 1 oz 2 Cups Hibiscus Flowers – Whole 3 oz 2 Cups Lemon Verbena Leaves ½ oz 2 Cups Milo Berries – (White) 4 oz 1 Cup Juniper Berries – (Blue) – Whole 3 and1/4 oz 1 Cup Pine Cones – Birch 1 oz 1 Cup Pine Cones – Hemlock ¾ oz ½ Cup Allspice – (Mexican) Whole 1 and ¾ 0z ½ Cup Anise – (Star) – Standard 1 oz ½ Cup Cloves – Whole1-3/4 oz ½ Cup Oak Moss – Cut ¼ oz OIL: Bayberry or Bayberry and Cinnamon

Blend all of the above together and enjoy!

EPSOM BATH SALTS

2 cups Epsom salts ½ tsp. Food coloring if you want it ½ tsp fragrance oil ½ cup dried rose petals crumbled to near powder

Mix all ingredients. Makes lovely bath salts. Store in a pretty jar.

SOCK DRAWER SACHET

4 Tb Lavender 4 Tb Thyme 2 Tb Lemon balm

Especially nice for a man’s drawer or wardrobe, this mixture has a clean, refreshing scent.

Recipe makes about ½ cup, enough to fill a 3-by-4-inch cloth bag.

CITRUS SPICE SIMMERING POTPOURRI

1 c 1-inch cinnamon sticks 1 c Whole allspice 2 c Star anise 1 c Coriander seed 2 c Dried orange peel ½ c Cloves ½ c Crushed nutmeg 10 drop Cinnamon oil 10 drop Allspice oil 20 drop Sweet orange oil

You’ll find everything you need for this appealing blend at the grocery store or on your spice shelf, except for the essential oils. Even if you omit them, you’ll have a fragrant mixture whose scent holds up well after several refills of water.

DIRECTIONS: Layer ingredients in a gallon jar. Add the oils to their corresponding ingredients as you go. Shake well and let age at least one day before using.

Candy Cane Bath Salts

Materials and Supplies for Candy Cane Bath Salts:

12 tall jelly (12-ounce) canning jars with lid and rings 2 4-pound cartons Epsom Salts (approximately 16 cups) 4 pounds sea salt or Kosher salt (approximately 6 cups) ½ teaspoon glycerin, divided 12 to 15 drops peppermint essential oil 12 to 15 drops red food color

Instructions

Wash, rinse and dry canning jars.

Empty one carton Epsom Salts into large mixing bowl or batter bowl. Add 3 cups sea salt, stir well. Stir in ¼ teaspoon glycerin and 6 to 8 drops essential oil. Mix well.

In second large mixing bowl, empty one carton Epsom Salts, and add 3 cups sea salt. Stir well. Add ¼ teaspoon glycerin, 6 to 8 drops essential oil, and food color. Stir until completely blended. Color should be even. tip: use a heavy-duty stand mixer to mix bath salts easily. Set mixer to lowest setting and mix until color is even—but don’t try this with hand mixers or smaller stand mixers!

Holding canning jars at an angle, layer salts in jars, alternating white and colored mixtures.

This recipe makes 12 12-ounce gift jars, plus a bonus of 3 to 4 cups extra bath salts. Package them in small plastic zipper craft bags for easy stocking stuffers!

Makes 12 gift jars.

Peaches and Cream Bath Salts:

12 tall jelly (12-ounce) canning jars with lid and rings

2 4-pound cartons Epsom Salts (approximately 16 cups) 4 pounds sea salt or Kosher salt (approximately 6 cups) ½ teaspoon glycerin, divided 12 to 15 drops peach essential oil 12 to 15 drops orange food color

Instructions

Wash, rinse and dry canning jars.

Empty one carton Epsom Salts into large mixing bowl or batter bowl. Add 3 cups sea salt, stir well. Stir in ¼ teaspoon glycerin and 6 to 8 drops essential oil. Mix well.

Holding canning jars at an angle, layer salts in jars, alternating white and colored mixtures.

This recipe makes 12 12-ounce gift jars, plus a bonus of 3 to 4 cups extra bath salts. Package them in small plastic zipper craft bags for easy stocking stuffers!

Makes 12 gift jars.

FEVERFEW COMPLEXION MILK

Helps dry skin, helps fade blemishes and discourages blackheads.

1 large handful of Feverfew leaves 1 ¼ cups milk

Place in sauce pan and simmer for 20 minutes. Allow to cool in the pan and strain into a bottle. Refrigerate

FENNEL CLEANSER

Gently but thoroughly cleans.

1 tbsp Fennel seed 1 cup boiling water 1 tsp honey 2 tbsp buttermilk

Lightly crush Fennel seeds. Pour on boiling water and allow to infuse for 30 minutes. Strain after cool into a bowl and add honey and buttermilk. Transfer into clean bottle and refrigerate.

ROSEMARY HAIR TONIC

Helps control greasy hair and enhances the shine.

1 cup fresh Rosemary leaves 5 cups bottled water (non-carbonated)

Put all ingredients in a pan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes and cool in pan. Strain and store in a bottle. Use after shampooing the hair.

CHAMOMILE CONDITIONING RINSE

Helps blonde hair stay bright. Good overall conditioner.

½ cup fresh or dried Chamomile flowers 2 ½ cups water 1 handful scented Geranium leaves

Put water and Chamomile in a pan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes. While still hot, strain on to the scented Geranium leaves. Leave to soak for 30-40 minutes. Strain again and pour into a bottle. Use after shampooing.

LEMON VERBENA HAIR RINSE

Stimulates pores and circulation.

1 handful Lemon Verbena leaves 1 cup boiling water

Pour boiling water over leaves and let soak for 1 hour. Strain and discard leaves. Bottle and pour over hair after conditioning.

ROSE HAND CREAM

Softens and moisturizes.

1 tsp beeswax ¼ tsp honey 4 tbsp almond oil 4 tbsp rosewater

Put beeswax, honey and almond oil in glass jar and stand it in a pan of hot water. Stir until melted and blended. Stir vigorously while pouring in the rose water. Take jar out of the water and continue to stir gently until mixture has cooled.

DILL AFTERSHAVE

Splash on after shaving.

¼ cup Dill seed 1 tbsp honey 2 ½ cup bottled water 1 tbsp distilled Witch Hazel

Place Dill seed, honey and water in a small pan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Cool in pan and add Witch Hazel. Strain after it is cool and bottle. Keep refrigerated. .

Troubled Skin Bath Summer can cause a variety of irritations to your skin. Try soaking in the Troubled Skin Bath as an aid in relieving some of them.

¼ cup fresh or 2 tablespoons dried thyme ¼ cup fresh or 2 tablespoons dried calendula blossoms 1 quart boiling water

Add the herbs to the boiling water and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Remove the infusion from the heat and let it cook to lukewarm. Strain the infusion and add to your bathwater.

Relaxation Bath 1/2 cup fresh or 1/4 cup dried lemon balm 1/2 cup fresh or 1/4 cup dried German chamomile blossoms 2 cups boiling water Add the herbs to the boiling water. Cover and infuse for 20 minutes. Strain and add to your bathwater.

Fragrant Bath The herbs in this recipe will give you a fresh, pleasantly scented bath.

1/4 cup fresh or 2 tablespoons dried sweet marjoram 2 tablespoons fresh or 1 tablespoons dried lavender buds 2 tablespoons fresh or 1 tablespoons dried peppermint 1 muslin bath bag 1 quart boiling water

Add the fresh or dried herbs to the muslin bag and close snugly. Infuse the bath bag or herbs in the boiling water and simmer, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes. Let the infusion cool to lukewarm, then add it and the bath bag to your bathwater.

Soothing Bath Oil

• 1 cup honey • 2 cups milk • 1 cup salt • 1/4 cup baking soda • 1/2 cup baby oil • Fragrance oil of desired scent

Combine honey, milk, salt and baking soda in a bowl. Fill your tub and pour the mixture in. Add the baby oil and a few drops of the fragrance.

Simple Milk Bath

• 2 cups dry milk powder • 1 cup cornstarch • 1/8 teaspoon fragrance oil of your choice

Blend together all ingredients in blender. Add 1/2 cup of mixture to hot bath water.

Earth Bath Salts

• 1/2 cup Epsom salts • 1 cup baking soda • 1/2 cup rock salt • 1/2 tsp. vitamin E • 2 tsp. light oil (almond, sunflower...) • 20 drops Patchouli essential oil • 15 drops Cypress essential oil • 5 drops Vetivert essential oil • Green Food coloring Mix all salts & baking soda together. Then combine oil, essential oils, vitamin E & a few drops of coloring in a separate bowl. Add liquid to salts and mix thoroughly. You can add more green food coloring if desired, but I find it nicer when it's a very light green as it does not look as artificial. To use: Add a few heaping tablespoons to bath.

Cleopatra's Honey & Milk Bath

• ¼ c honey • ¼ cup whole milk

Add ingredients to hot bath water. Soak!

Body Spritzer

Ingredients

• Gallon Distilled Water • 1/2 Cup Epsom Salt • 1/2 cup water softener • Body Safe Fragrance Oils • Vitamin E oil (optional)

Note: The fragrance oil does not mix thoroughly with the water mixture, so do not use a see-through bottle for these, and instruct the customer to shake the bottle before they spray.

Instructions

1. Put Epsom salt and water softener in distilled water. Allow to dissolve completely. 2. Pour mixture into 8 oz. spray bottles. 3. Top each bottle off with 1 Tbsp. of a Body Safe Fragrance oil of your choice. 4. You're done!

Bath Bombs

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda • 1/2 cup citric acid • 1/2 cup corn starch • 2 Tbsp. jojoba • 2 tsp. witch hazel • 4-8 drops coloring • 1/4 tsp. borax • 1-2 tsp. fragrance oil • Molds of your choice

Instructions

1. Mix baking soda, citric acid, and cornstarch thoroughly. 2. Mix all of the remaining ingredients in small cup 3. Pour the wet mixture over the dry mixture little by little (mixing thoroughly while adding). 4. Remove finished mixture and pack into your molds. If the mixture is too crumbly, add a little more witch hazel and try again. 5. Remove from the molds (they don't have to be set up to remove.)

Anti-Aging Face Mask

1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1 med. banana - peeled 1 vitamin E capsule

-Mash together cream and banana. Stir in contents of capsule. -Smooth onto face and neck. -Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes. -Wipe off with damp cloth.

Apple Face Mask - For Normal Skin

1 apple - quartered, cored 2 Tbs. honey 1/2 tsp. ground sage

-Chop apple in food processor. -Add honey and sage to apple. Mix well. -Refrigerate for 10 minutes. -Pat mixture onto face with a light tapping motion, tapping until honey feels tacky. -Leave on for 30 minutes. -Rinse.

Banana Mask - for Dry Skin

1/4 cup plain yogurt 2 Tbls. honey 1 med. banana

-Mash all ingredients together with a fork. -Smooth onto face and neck. -Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse off.

Therapeutic Lip Balm 3 oz. beeswax 3 oz. sesame oil 1 Tbs. camphor 2 Tbs. glycerin 1 vitamin E capsule

-Melt all ingredients together in microwave or double boiler, stirring constantly. -Pour into container of your choice and refrigerate for 3 hours.

Ultimate Dry Skin Treatment

2 Tbls. mayonnaise - only the real stuff 1 tsp. baby oil

-Combine both ingredients. -Smooth onto face, neck, rough elbows and knees, or anywhere you need it. -Leave on for 20 minutes. -Rinse thoroughly with tepid water.

Tightening Peach Face Mask

1 ripe peach - peeled and pitted 1 egg white

-Whip peach and egg white together in a blender until smooth. -Gently pat mixture over face. -Leave on for 30 minutes. -Rinse off with cool water.

If you are allergic to Sea Products, please consult your doctor before using sea, salt or dulse recipes.

QUICK THIGH SLIMMER Seaweed has been known for its many uses and flushes out toxins. Apply dried seaweed sheets that have been re hydrated in water or mix up crushed seaweed with enough water to make a paste. (I buy the seaweed sheets at Health food stores). Apply mixture to your thighs.

Wrap snugly with plastic wrap.

Apply heat from your blow dryer for 5 minutes per leg, let cool, and then remove.

CELLULITE BATH: 1/2 c. Baking soda 1/4 c. Epsom salts 1/2 teaspoon table salt 3 drops lemon essential oil 2 drops cypress essential oil 2 drops fennel essential oil or 1 tsp. fennel dried herbs (crushed) 2 drops rosemary essential oil or 1 tsp. rosemary dried herbs (crushed) 1 drop thyme essential oil or 1 tsp. thyme dried herbs (crushed)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Pour into a decorative bottle or jar.

**If you prefer a fine bath soak, transfer the mixture into a food processor and grind into a fine powder.

~~ If you prefer a more moisturizing bath soak, you may add a 1/2 tsp. of vitamin E, sunflower or sesame oil.

Use 1-2 Tbs. per bath. Soak for at least 20 minutes.

English Ivy Cellulite massage lotion recipe

What you will need: ENGLISH IVY CELLULITE SCRUB LOTION 20 fresh English Ivy leaves (be sure they haven't been sprayed with pesticides) 1 cup of distilled water. 1/4 teaspoon of powdered borax 1/4 cup of almond oil 1 1/2 teaspoons of grated beeswax

Ivy is known to circulate stimulation, and helps the body rid itself of excess fluids. This massage cream is great before a shower and is great with steam from the bath.

Directions:

In a blender or food processor, blend together the ivy leaves and distilled water on the high speed for about 1 minute.

Strain the green ivy water into a clean jar and discard what you have strained off (the ivy leave bits) Measure 1/2 cup of ivy water and mix it with the powdered borax. Set this to he side.

Then mix together in an ovenproof glass container, the almond oil and the beeswax. Gently heat it (oil-wax) until the wax has melted. You can do this by micro waving it for 1 or 2 minutes on High, but be careful. Or you can heat the mix in a pot of water, if that's easier.

When wax is melted, heat the ivy water mixture, but do not boil it. Microwave it for another minute, Slowly pour the ivy mix into the oil mix.

Then pour the entire mix into the blender and blend it on high for 1-2 minutes. If you don't have a blender, stir it with a whisk. To compute, pour the mix into a clean container and allow it to cool off completely. You will have a lovely thick green cream.

Use: before the shower, use a small amount of the ivy massage, and massage well into your body to the trouble areas. Rinse off with the coldest water you can stand.

Remember, Ivy plant is not edible.

This will make a 4 oz. amount.

BODY SUGARING RECIPE 1 cup of sugar Half a lemon for the juice, 1/4 cup of honey. A little bit of Molasses, Cornstarch (this would be tow powder with for tautness, to make the mix more effective. Wood spatula, flat like a Popsicle stick, cheese spreader or spatula. Cotton fabric, you can buy strips at a store or use some old cotton.

Mix lemon, sugar and honey in a bowl. Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, until mix bubbles into a smooth consistency. This is easier than using the stove. If you use a stove use the LOW heat setting, and keep an eye on it.

Allow the mix to cool. But use it at a warm temperature. Microwave it for 20 seconds if you need to. Be sure your skin is clean and dry before use. Then dust the areas with cornstarch so it's more effective. Spread a thin layer on your legs or the desired area. Cover with the fabric strips, and rub the strip in the opposite direction of the hair growth. Next pull the fabric very quickly against the direction of the hair growth on the other way if you wish. It may hurt. If the mix cools and gets hard, you may need to reheat it. Only to warm, not hot. Do a test to check if it's hot enough, or too hot. You can store this mix in a glass jar or in other thick plastic container.

______

FACE LIFT RECIPE

Do not use this around your eyes, because it's too drying.

What you will need: 1/2 cup of Baking soda 1/2 cup of orrisroot 1/4 cup of sea salt 2 tablespoons of dulse 2 tablespoons of kelp 1/2 a cup of distilled water strips of cotton material, in 8" X 8" strips, gauze works good, or other cotton material.

This is enough for 1 treatment

Instructions: 1. Add together banking soda, orrisroot and sea salt into large bowl. 2. Using a spice mill, powder the dulse and kelp and add to the dry ingredients 3. Heat up the distilled water to boiling, and then pour it over the dry ingredients, stirring well.

Usage: Be sure to that you wear a shirt with a low neckline or something you would wear for painting. Then Moisturize the jaw, chin, and neck and cheek area of your face with alight moisturizer or light vegetable oil. Use a close to remove any excess oil and remove any excess oils. Then Use a wooden spoon, and apply the mixture to the jaw, chin, neck and cheeks. Immediately Wrap the gauze snugly around your neck and then from the chin, and then around your head several times to just below your eyes.

Next wrap the gauze up over the top of your head and under the chin a few more times to secure. Relax and wait till the gauze dries and is tight, this takes about a half hour. Try not to talk, as it will stretch the gauze and you won't get as good results. When your done rinse your face and neck with the coldest water you can possibly stand. When this is all done, your skin will be really soft!

SEA RECIPES:

OCEAN BATH Take equal quantities of true sea salt and Epsom salts. To this add ¼ the amount of dulse flakes or small dulse pieces. Add essential oils of lemongrass, eucalyptus, lavender and rosemary. Blend and store in a covered glass container if you make a large batch. Run a hot bath and add the mixture to it about 2 cups per full bath. This blend helps soothe tired muscles DE-stress the psyches well as detoxify the skin. Relax and enjoy.

NOURISHING WAKAME FACE PACK This must be made per application on the spot. Take about 3 strips or pieces of Wakame seaweed and put in a glass bowl then pour 3/4 cup of boiling water over it. Allow steeping 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a separate ceramic or glass bowl mix up ¼ cup of green or white clay. Kaolin and French green work well. To the clay add a squeeze of fresh lemon and 2 drops of rose, lavender or myrrh essential oil. When seaweed has been thoroughly infused strain the liquid into the clay mixture. Apply it to face and neck and allow to rejuvenate your skin at least 20 minutes. This can also be made in larger quantities and applied to the body.

DULSE AND SEA SALT SCRUB Take equal amounts of coarse Dead Sea salt and ground sea salt and mix with 1/4 the amount of dried coarse ground orange peel. To this add ¼ the amount of dulse or kelp flakes. You can also grind up any dried seaweed you prefer into tiny pieces as well using an herb or coffee type grinder. Mix all together and add if you like essential oils of orange, neroli, verbena, and lavender. If you make a batch ahead of time store in a covered glass container. When you are ready to bathe, dampen the skin and using the mixture scrub the body from top to bottom being sure to also use dampened hands. This is easy to do right in the shower. It helps to refine and stimulate the skin organ, and makes you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

SEA HAIR TONIC This tonic uses herbs from both the ocean and the earth. It is a wonderfully nourishing scalp treatment for all hair types and adds strength and luster to the hair. It needs to be made per use and proportions given are for one application. Also, you will want to apply this to freshly washed and dried hair because you will be leaving it on and not rinsing until your next shower. First take ¼ cup dried nettles, ¼ cup dried rosemary, and ¼ cup dried peppermint leaves and blend together. Boil water, about 4 cups and pour half over this herbal mixture in a glass or ceramic bowl. Also, in another bowl pour there remaining boiled hot water over ¾ cup of any dried seaweed of your choice. Allow both herbs and seaweed to infuse at least one hour in the hot water. After one hour it will have cooled and be naturally imbued with the nourishing properties of the herbs and the seaweed. Strain both brews into one container or jar. Brush out your hair to help distribute its natural oils and evenly absorb the tonic. Now, over a sink pour the tonic a little at a time onto the hair so that as much of it as possible is absorbed by the hair and not just going down the drain. When it has all been used, allow your hair to dry naturally leaving in the tonic overnight. Repeated use of this tonic makes for beautiful hair. It also can be used as an after shampoo rinse too provided your hair is towel dried first.

PUMPKIN BODY TREATMENT What you will need: 1 small fresh pumpkin 1 cup of yogurt Fresh juice from 1 lemon

Instructions: Cut up pumpkin and remove the skin/ and scoop out the pulp. Place the flesh in a pot with a little water. Cook the Pumpkin until it's mash able with a potato masher. Remove it from the heat, mash the pumpkin, and then add the yogurt and the lemon juice. Use this while it is still warm.

Usage: in the tub or shower slather the warm pumpkin mix all over your dry body, and your hair to if you want. Sit for about 15 minutes and then shower it all off.

EZ PEEL OFF FACE MASK 1//4 cup of fruit juice 3/4 cup of herbal infused water. Herbal infused water is like tea, but you use herbs and steep them for at least 20 minutes. 1 package of unflavored gelatin (this makes 1 treatment)

Ideas for infusion: If your skin: Break out prone - use tomato juice with a garlic infusion Oily skin - Watermelon juice and rosemary infusion Dry skin - Use Honeydew or cantaloupe juice with a lemon balm infusion Normal skin types can use - Raspberry juice using the raspberry leaves for the infusion

To make: Pour all your liquid ingredients into an oven proof glass container Add the gelatin and make sure it all dissolves. Very carefully heat up the mixture for 1 minute. Then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Usage: Spread a think layer over your face, and let dry, then peel off and rinse with cold water.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ AVEENA FACIAL GRAINS What you will need: 1/2 cup of oatmeal 1/2 cup of oat bran 3 table spoons of almonds 1/2 cup of white beauty clay 2 Table spoons of poppy seeds 2 Table spoons of herbs (see list next)

Good Herbs to try: Problem or break out skin, use green clay instead of white, add 1 teaspoon of goldenseal, and 1 teaspoon of myrrh, and 1 teaspoon of comfrey root

FOR OILY SKIN – ROSE AND LAVENDER TREATMENT Instructions: In a blender or spice mill, or coffee mill, grind up the oatmeal and oat bran, be sure to leave some grit, then grind the almonds and also leave some grit. Add all the other ingredients in a bowl and use a wire whisk to mix them up. To package them you can use 1 oz spice jars, this will make 16 treatments.

To USE: add 1 tablespoon of grains with 1 tablespoon of water, milk or yogurt and mix into paste.

Then apply it to your face and gently rug in a circular motion. Rinse with warm water t hen cooler water.

______- HERBAL CLEANSING MILK This is good if your skin gets dry

What you will need:

2 tablespoons of dried chamomile blossoms 2 tablespoons of dried rose petals not treated with pesticides 2 tablespoons of dried lemon balm 2 tablespoons of dried calendula 2 tablespoons of dried comfrey 1 tablespoon of bee pollen 1 cup of boiling water 1/4 cup of aloe Vera gel 1/2 cup of glycerin 2 tablespoons of honey 10 drops of vitamin e oil. You can break open capsules for this.

This makes 4 treatments.

To make: Put the dried flowers and the herbs and the bee pollen in a 10-Ounce glass jar with a lid, then pour the boiling water over the flowers and pollen cover it and let it sit for 20 minutes. Strain out the herbs and save the liquid Pour the liquid into a blender and add all the other remaining ingredients. Blend on High for 2 minutes, and then put into a wide mouthed jar. The mix will last a week, but must be kept in the refrigerator.

______BLACK HEADS & BLEMISHES 1) Heat honey slightly and apply to face, tap face gently with your fingers. Wash honey off with warm water then rinse with cool water. A bit of wheat germ may be added to the honey before applying.

2) To loosen and cleanse blackheads, make a paste of oatmeal, honey and an egg white. Apply to the skin, massage for 10 minutes then rinse with tepid water.

3) For blackheads, make a paste of oatmeal and water.

4) For blackheads, make a paste of almond meal and water.

5) Blotchy skin: Make a mixture of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 8 parts water. Store in a decorative bottle in the bathroom. Rinse face 1-2 times a day with the solution.

6) For blackheads, rub with a slice of tomato ______- CLEANSING CREAMS, MILKS AND SCRUBS Cream (For Dry Skin) 1) 10 oz apricot kernel oil 2 oz cocoa butter 2 oz beeswax Heat all in top of double boiler until wax and butter are melted. Beat with a wooden spoon until smooth and cooled. Transfer to jars, cap and refrigerate.

2) Buttermilk and Fennel Cleansing Milk (For Oily Skin) 1/2 cup buttermilk 2 Tbsp crushed fennel seeds Heat the milk and fennel seeds in top of double boiler for 30 minutes. Turn off heat, let steep for 2 hours. Strain, cool, pour into bottle and refrigerate. Keeps for 2 weeks.

3) Chamomile Cleansing Milk (For Dry and Sensitive Skin) 1/4 cup cream 1/4 cup milk 2 Tbsp chamomile flowers, fresh or dried Simmer ingredients in top of a double boiler for about 30 minutes, do not allow milk to boil. Turn off heat and let sit for about 2 hours, strain. Keep refrigerated. Apply with cotton balls to the face. Variations: Use elderflowers, sweet violets or lime blossoms in place of chamomile

4) Cornmeal Cleanser (for Oily Skin) Castile soap 1 Tsp Cornmeal Wet face. Pour a little Castile soap into the palm of your hand, add cornmeal. Mix meal and soap into a lather, wash face, being careful to avoid the delicate skin around the eyes.

5) Honey Cleanser (For Dry Skin) Castile soap 1 Tsp Honey Wet face. Pour a little Castile soap into the palm of your hand, add honey. Mix honey and soap into a lather, wash face.

6) Honey Almond Scrub 2 Tbsp almonds 2 tsp milk 1/2 tsp flour 1/2 tsp honey Grind almonds in a blender. Add milk, flour and honey, mixing until a thick paste is formed. Rub into skin, rinse with warm water followed by the pH balancer.

7) Honey 'n Oats Scrub 1/2 cup uncooked oatmeal 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp cider vinegar 1 tsp ground almonds Moisten face with a warm washcloth then apply mixture to face avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes. Let mixture dry, then remove with a warm, damp washcloth.

8) Lemon Cleansing Cream (For Oily Skin) 1 Tbsp beeswax 1 1/2 Tbsp Un petroleum Jelly (available in natural foods stores) 3 Tbsp jojoba oil 1 Tbsp witch hazel 1 Tbsp strained lemon juice 1/8 tsp borax 6 drops essential oil of lemon Melt beeswax and un petroleum jelly over low heat. Add warmed jojoba oil to wax and jelly mixture, blending for 3-5 minutes. Mix witch hazel and lemon juice, warm gently, mix in borax until dissolved. Slowly add this to the wax mixture, beating until cool and creamy. After completely cooled, add lemon oil, spoon into clean jar.

Facial Masks: Most facial masks are applied to the skin, left on for 15-20 minutes then washed off with warm water, followed by a cold rinse.

1) Apple & Honey Mask A mask of grated apple mixed with a little honey is an excellent remedy for pimples.

2) Apricot Mask Mash the fresh fruit for a good fac mask. Variation: Add apricots to a little warm olive oil to form a spreadable paste. Good for dry skin.

3) Avocado & Honey Moisturizer Mask(For Dry Skin) Mash up 2 tablespoons avocado, mix with 2 tablespoons honey and 1 egg yolk. Apply to face, leaving on about 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Finish with a rinse of the vinegar pH balancer.

4) Creamy Avocado Mask Mash 1 tablespoon ripe avocado, add 1/2 tsp. honey and mix. Stir in a little almond meal until creamy. Apply to clean skin, leave on for 15-20 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water. Finish with a rinse of the vinegar pH balancer.

5) Avocado Honey Mask #2(For Dry Skin) Peel one ripe avocado, mash the meat into a creamy texture. Heat over a double boiler until just warm, incorporate 1 Tbsp of honey. Massage into the face and neck. Finish with a rinse of rosewater, witch hazel or vinegar pH balancer.

6) Banana Mask Mash a banana and spread on face for a soothing, cleansing and moisturizing face mask. Rinse clean with warm water finished with a rinse of the vinegar pH balancer.

7) Brewers Yeast Mask (For Oily Skin) Make a paste using the yeast and a small amount of warm water.

8) Carrot Mask (For Oily Skin) Carrots make an excellent skin mask for acne and blemishes. Apply raw, grated carrots to the face while lying down, a little lemon juice may also be added. For a cooked carrot mask: Boil three large carrots and mash them, or process in a food processor. Add 5 tablespoons of honey or yogurt (optional). Apply gently, in an upward motion. Leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Finish with a final rinse of witch hazel or the vinegar pH balancer.

9) Cool As A Cucumber Yogurt Facial(For Normal/Oily Skin) 1/2 cucumber 1 Tbsp plain yogurt Puree cucumber in blender. Mix in yogurt, apply to face. Leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse well.

10) Elder Flower Mask (For Oily Skin) Mix elder flower herb with yogurt to make a paste, apply to face.

11) Fennel Wrinkle Mask Mix a strong infusion of fennel seed or herb into a liberal amount of honey and yogurt to form a paste, add some additional dried fennel herb, mix well, apply to skin.

12) Honey Mask (For Oily & Blemished Skin) Massage a small amount of slightly heated honey into skin. Wheat germ may be added for its abrasive action, protein and nutrients.

13) Lemon/Egg Mask (For Oily Skin) Squeeze half a lemon and mix the juice with one beaten egg white. Apply to face avoiding the area around the eyes. Leave on your face overnight or if during the day, for about 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

14) Oatmeal Facial (For Oily Skin) Make a creamy paste of oatmeal and water. Apply to face, let dry completely. Remove by very gently rubbing off with your fingers.

15) Papaya Skin Treatment A fresh mashed papaya applied as a face mask will remove dead, flaky skin.

16) Peach Mask (For Dry Skin) Mash a fresh peach, mix with enough warm olive, peach kernel or almond oil to form a spreadable paste.

17) Strawberry Mask(For Oily Skin) Mash strawberries then use as a cleansing face mask.

18) Tomato Mask(For Oily Skin) Use mashed or sliced tomato for enlarged pores.

19) Yogurt Mask(For Oily Skin) Apply natural unflavored yogurt adding honey and/or oatmeal if desired. ______-- FACE MASKS WITH E/O (*essential oils). A moisturizing or deep-cleansing face mask improves your complexion. However a mask should not be used more than once a week. Mixing your own essential oil face mask takes only a few minutes and uses simple ingredients, but use it within one hour.

Apply a mask to a well cleansed skin by smoothing it on evenly in upward strokes. Avoid areas around the eyes, nostrils and the lips, but applying to the neck. Relax for 10-15 minutes, allowing the mask to dry, then rinse with warm water. For a deep- cleansing facial use your fingertips to rub the dried mask away so you exfoliate the skin.

Moisturizing Mask 2 drops each of Frankincense, Rose and Neroli in 6tsp. (30ml)6tsp Apricot oil with 1 tsp. warmed clear honey, mixed with enough finely ground almond to make a soft paste.

Deep cleansing Mask 2 drops Geranium, 3 drops Lavender and 1 drop Lemon in 6 tsp. hot water, mixed with enough kaolin to make a smooth paste.

MOISTURIZERS An essential oil moisturizer combines pure oil for maximum moisture with the right therapeutic drops added for your needs. It can be used as often as you like as they are additive-free, pure, non-irritating, inexpensive, quick and easy to make.

The best time to apply a body moisturizer is after a bath or a shower when the skin is soft and warm. Alternatively rub the oil in using the palm to create maximum heat and friction. Mix just enough oil to last just a few days and apply sparingly. The ideal mixture should contain 15 drops of essential oil in 12 teaspoons of carrier oil.

Rich Moisturizers Dry Skin: 8 drops Myrrh, 7 drops Rose in 12 tsp Peanut Oil Mature Skin: 7 drops Rose, 4 drops each of Lavender and Sandalwood in Apricot Kernel Oil.

Light Moisturizers Oily Skin: 8 drops Lavender, 3 drops each of Lemon and Petitgrain in Sunflower Oil. Sensitive Skin: 5 drops Rose, 9 drops Chamomile

Face Masks A moisturizing or deep-cleansing face mask improves your complexion. However a mask should not be used more than once a week. Mixing your own essential oil facemask takes only a few minutes and uses simple ingredients, but use it within one hour.

Mineral Mud Treatment 3/4 cup powdered mud or clay (bentonite or green, available at health food stores) 3/4 cup noncarbonated mineral water 2 tablespoons powdered seaweed (Irish moss) - Fullers earth is great for this and can be purchased on the web or at health food stores. Mix ingredients together to form a paste. Apply this natural clay/mud pack to your face and body and let dry for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Mineral-rich mud’s, collected from therapeutic thermal waters, are infused with nourishing vitamins and minerals. Massaged onto the face and body, these mud’s exfoliate, cleanse impurities and re hydrate, leaving skin satiny smooth.

HERBAL SALT SCRUB 2 cups sea salt 1/2 cup almond oil 1/2 cup macadamia nut oil 1/2 cup sesame seed oil 1 tsp. vitamin E 1 tb. dried, ground lavender, rosemary, mint 1-2 drops essential oil

HERBAL SALT - NO2 2 cups salt 1/2 cup almond oil 1/4 cup macadamia nut oil 1/4 cup jojoba oil 1 tsp. vitamin E 1 tsp. dried rosemary 1 tsp. dried spearmint 1 tsp. dried lavender few drops essential oil

SALT SEA SCRUB 2 lb. dead Sea Salts 1 lb. Epsom salts 1/4 cup borax 1/2 cup jojoba oil 1/3 cup vitamin E 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 lb. grated soap 1 tb. Glycerin 3 tsp. lime essential oil 1 tsp. ground lime peel 1 tsp. orange peel, ground 2 tsp. vitamin C powder INVIGORATING SCRUB WITH SALT WITH PEPPERMINT 2 cups Epsom salt 1/4 oz. Glycerin soap 1 cup oil 10 drops rosemary essential oil 10 drops peppermint essential oil Melt oil and soap together. Stir in the salt, add e.o.'s.Essential oil

SALT & JOJOBA SCRUB 1/2 cup liquid soap 1 cup table salt 1 tb. Glycerin soap, melted 1 tb. Jojoba oil 1/4 tsp. vitamin E essential oil (opt)

SALT SCRUB W/ALMOND 1 1/4 cup sea salt 1/4 cup almond oil 1/8 cup melted glycerin soap 1 tb. Aloe Vera gel 1/4 tsp. vitamin E essential oil's of your choice (opt)

GLOW SCRUB 2 cups sea salt 1 cup Epsom salt 1 tsp. jojoba oil 1/4 cup liquid soap few drops lavender essential oil few drops orange essential oil (if desired, add 3 tb. ground orange peel to this)

SALT SCRUB WITH SEA SALT/ETC. 2 tb. medium sea salt 2 tb. fine sea salt 1 tsp. essential oil 1 tb. glycerine 2 oz. almond oil 2 oz. jojoba oil

HAIR REMOVAL BODY SUGARING SCRUB 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed 1/3-1/2 cup almond oil 1/2 tsp. vitamin E 30 drops grapefruit essential oil 20 drops lavender essential oil 15 drops lemon essential oil 10 drops orange essential oil

Brown Sugar Scrub 1/2 cup ground almonds 1/2 cup ground oatmeal 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1/4 cup almond oil infused with vanilla bean

Brown Sugar and Almond Scrub 1 handful ground almonds 5 tb. ground oatmeal 2 tb. brown sugar 2 tb. honey 1/4 cup hot water or vegetable oil

Brown Sugar Scrub 1/2 cup ground almonds 1/2 cup ground oatmeal 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1/4 cup almond oil infused with vanilla bean

Brown Sugar and Almond Scrub 1 handful ground almonds 5 tb. ground oatmeal 2 tb. brown sugar 2 tb. honey 1/4 cup hot water or vegetable oil

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Essential Oil List: Aloe Vera: Used in the treatment of burns, ulcers, and parasitic infections of the skin. Natural moisturizer, healer, and skin soother. Avocado Oil: Contains vitamins A, D, and E. Our skin absorbs this oil and responds well to its healing quality. It is also known to regenerate skin cells and soften tissue. Basil: Basil is used for respiratory infections, headaches, migraines and digestive problems. It is excellent for stimulating the mind and aids focus, concentration, and relieving mental fatigue. Bergamot: Strong antiseptic qualities. Great for treating skin infections, acne, and oily skin. Also acts as an insect repellent. Calendula: Helps heal sore and broken skin, diaper rash and cracked nipples. Carrot Seed: Restores elasticity in skin. Smoothes tired, aging, dry skin. Chamomile (Roman): Helps relieve eczema, dry patches, and allergic reactions. Citronella: Effective insect repellent. Clary Sage: Antiseptic and deodorizing. Aids in relief of dandruff. Cocoa Butter: Moisturizing, skin healing, and nourishing. Coconut oil: Moisturizing. Comfrey: Used to heal & soothe. Cypress: Antiseptic and astringent. Good for treating oily skin. Emu Oil: Helps a variety of skin conditions and ailments including eczema, keloids, burns, pain and swelling in joints, and more. Eucalyptus: Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and insect repellent. Geranium: Antiseptic and astringent. Grapefruit: In aromatherapy, acts as a major anti-depressant. Grapeseed Oil: Gentle. Contains Vitamin E and essential fatty oils. Used to nourish and tone skin. Gentle on baby's skin. Jojoba Oil: Penetrating oil for all skin types. Has been used as a treatment for skin inflammations, acne, Psoriasis & Eczema. Lavender: Antiseptic, antibacterial, anti fungal, and deodorizing. Recommended for oily and sensitive skin, eczema, acne, and skin irritations. Wonderful for treatment of burns. May reduce or help to prevent blistering or scarring. Lemongrass: Antibacterial, astringent, and insect repellent. Recommended for oily skin. Toning and conditioning. Oatmeal: Acts as a gentle exfoliant. Traditionally used to treat rashes and poison ivy. Great for dry skin. Olive Oil: A great moisturizer! Olive Oil attracts external moisture and holds the moisture close to the skin. Forms a breathable film to prevent loss of internal moisture, and won't clog pores. Palmarosa: Stimulates cellular regeneration. A good choice for mature and blemished skin. Patchouli: Antiseptic, and deodorizing. Recommended for relief of acne and eczema. Good for dry, cracked skin. Peppermint: Antiseptic, and insect repellent. Stimulating and rejuvenating. Rosehip Seed Oil: Contains gamma linoleic acid (GLA) which is helpful in treating eczema and psoriasis. It can reduce scarring, aid in healing burns, and soften keloid scars. Great for aging skin. Rosemary: Antiseptic and astringent. Sandalwood: Good for dry, and aging skin. Recommended for relief of eczema, acne, and skin irritations. Also acts as an aphrodisiac. Shea Butter: Protects from elements and repairs cellular degeneration. It provides the skin with all of the essential elements of fats & vitamins that are necessary for the skins healthy balance. Spearmint: Acts as a stimulant. Refreshes the mind. Helps to cleanse and refine pores. It is, anti-infectious, antiparasitic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. Sea Kelp: Often been used in beauty products to help detoxify the skin and draw out impurities as well as to help improve skin elasticity and speed it's ability to heal. Sweet Almond Oil: An excellent emollient. It softens, soothes and conditions skin. Sweet Orange: In aromatherapy it acts as an anti-depressant. Gentle and uplifting, helps treat insomnia. Contains antiseptic and astringent agents. It has been recognized to help a dull, oily complexion. Wonderful oil to use during pregnancy. Tangerine: Nourishes skin. Helps prevent stretch marks during pregnancy if used daily. Tea Tree Oil: Antiseptic and antifungal. Good for itchy skin and acne. Gentle enough to use on babies if diluted first with a carrier oil. Vitamin E Oil: Nourishing and enriching to skin. Anti-oxidant. Helps prevent other oils from turning rancid. Ylang Ylang: In aromatherapy it is a sedative, anti-depressant, and relaxant. Also acts as an aphrodisiac. Good hair stimulant. Antiseptic. Ylang Ylang helps to control the production of sebum. It has also been used to treat oily and irritated skin, acne, dandruff, eczema, and wrinkles.

Beware cheap oils, with essential oils you get what you pay for! Many cheap oils may not have in the bottle what is on the label or may be diluted or adulterated with cheaper ingredients. BEWARE! Know the company that manufactures the oils - do they use low temps and low pressures to extract the oils? If not what you might get might smell good but may not give you the results you wanted, expected and paid for.