home recipes
Janice Cox's book Natural Beauty at Home
Perfect Hair Conditioner:
1 teaspoon almond oil
1 teaspoon avocado oil
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix all and stir thoroughly, massage into hair and scalp, plastic wrap and towel for as long as you like, shampoo out (She says shampoo, but I bet the egg yolk would do a pretty good job of getting you clean... maybe a bit of baking soda? This is really more of a mask, but it sounds amazing)
Rock Melon (aka cantelope) Hair Conditioner (good for oilies):
this just says to mash half a cantelope and massage it into your hair. I haven't tried this one.
Roaring Twenties Conditioner (the author's grandma used this after rides in open-top roadsters):
1 packet gelatin (about a tablespoon)
1/2 cup warm water
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Dissolve gelatin in water, add egg and lemon juice. Shampoo as usual and follow with the conditioner. Be sure to rinse thoroughly!
Tucson Jojoba Oil and Beer Conditioner:
1 cup warm beer
1 teaspoon jojoba oil
Mix the two together (make sure the beer's warm so they mix well). Follow with shampoo and a straight beer rinse if your hair feels greasy.
Dandruff Control Treatments:
For oilies with flakes:
2 tablespoons ACV or lemon juice
2 tablpesoons water
2 tablespoons olive oil
mix & massage into scalp, leave on and shampoo out.
For dry scalp with flakes:
2 tablespoons jojoba oil
1/2 teaspoon tea tree oil
mix & massage into scalp, leave on and shampoo out.
For clarifying rinses she suggests lemon juice, baking soda, acv, beer, and tomato juice.
For highlights she suggests chamomile tea, or rhubarb (1/4 cup steeped in 2 cups boiling water).
For darkening: sage, lavendar, or cinnamon.
For reddening: hibiscus tea.
She also suggests watercress rinses for oily hair (put it in a blender with water and then strain and pour liquid over hair), an infusion of mint with acv added for dandruff. We know she's smart because there are even instructions for hennas of all types.
there are hair gel recipes with gelatin, a brilliantine recipe, hair oil mixes, hair spray recipes with lemon juice, sugar, or psyllium, and suggestions for hair care in the swimming pool (basically a no 'poo)
Jalapeno Hair Tonic:
Author's note: On a recent trip to Mexico I complimented a beautiful woman working at our hotel on the condition of her hair (it was very thick and shiny), and she shared with me this family recipe. Jalapeno peppers are used to prevent hair loss by stimulating new hair growth (unaspenser's edit: maybe increases circulation through warming?). A small amount is rubbed into the scalp by both men and women before retiring in the evening. Make sure you use caution when using peppers, and wash your hands well before toucching your face or eyes--the juice can burn.
2 small or 1 large jalapeno pepper
1/2 cup vodka
2 tablespoons castor oil
Chop pepper into tinny pieces and place in a small ceramic bowl. Pour vodka over peppers and allow to sit for several days. Strain off vodka and discard peppers. Add castor oil to vodka and pour into a clean bottle. Shake before using and massage a small amount into your scalp before bed (you'll experience tingling!).
If anybody's brave and wants to try this I'd LOVE to hear about it. Sounds kinda neat.
updated april 6th 2006-
Oatmeal, Almond and Lemon Face Scrub
This face scrub rivals those found at fancy day spas in New York City. Oatmeal works as a gentle cleanser, almonds are good for clearing out blackheads and lemon zest has an astringent effect on the skin.
4 tablespoons oatmeal flakes
4 tablespoons finely ground almonds (Make this by throwing whole almonds in the blender and grinding on low. Just make sure you don’t over-grind and make almond butter)
4 tablespoons lemon zest, about 2 small lemons’ worth
Mix all ingredients in a medium size bowl and add 2 tablespoons water. Massage into skin, taking 2-3 minutes to really scrub out the dirt, going in circular movements and avoiding the delicate eye area. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Cleansing Masque (you must spell it with the que) Treatment
Honey removes impurities from below the skin’s surface and clears away those pesky dead skin cells, which make your skin seem dull.
1 cup (8 ounces) honey
1/2 cup almond or olive oil
In a large bowl, combine the honey and oil until fairly blended. Then each lady should apply enough to cover her face, being careful to avoid the delicate eye area. Spend two to three minutes massaging the honey-oil mixture into the skin, then leave the masque on for about twenty minutes. Remove with warm water and a wash cloth. Pat skin dry.
HINT: Masque can also be made in a plastic tub with lid - simply shake well to mix ingredients. Masque will last 4 weeks, sealed and refrigerated.
(*Excerpted from get crafty: hip home ec.)
12-11-2005
age spots?
Buttermilk
Tired of looking at those dark age spots? Then try
dabbing them with buttermilk. The lactic acid and other ingredients in the milk are extremely beneficial to the skin. Cosmetic companies have taken advantage of this natural beauty secret for years by making buttermilk an ingredient in many skin cleansers and bath products.
Dandelion Is Dandy For Age Spots & Warts
Dandelion is a wonderful diuretic and detox herb, but it is also highly effective for helping fade age spots. Break open a dandelion stem and rub the sap on the spots 2-3x per day. This sticky remedy is also effective on warts, as well. Word has it, this was a home remedy used successfully by Will Greer (Grandpa Walton)!
Age Spots & Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been effective for many troubled by age spots. Just combine two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with one teaspoon of orange juice and apply to the spots, preferably on a cloth or cotton pad that is secured to the area. It takes a bit of time, but this has worked wonders in many cases!
-To make your eyebrows and eyelashes grow well, apply warm olive oil on them at night at least once a week.
Thicker Eye Lashes! - BY ELENA B
to make eye lashes grow faster and thicker apply Castor Oil on your eye lashes couple of times a week when going to bed
shinestopper:
add about a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of water. Keep chilled in frige. use cotton balls to smooth over face to stop shine. OR before bed as a astrigent
stop green hair! in blondes:
after swimming, SHampoo your hair then squeeze a tomatoes worth of juice or v8 over your hair then rinse.
JOJOBA oil for exzema and psoriasis:
The oil is wonderful for people who suffer from sensitive skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema.
Take your favorite essential oil, such as lavender, and add 40 to 50 drops to a 4 oz bottle of jojoba oil. Apply to liberally to your skin and rub until it has been absorbed.
Moisturiser for your dry skin: Mix ¾ cup rose water, ¼ cup of glycerine, 1 teaspoon of vinegar and ¼ tsp of honey and keep it in a bottle. Use regularly for cleansing.
Nourishing mask:
Mash a banana and beat a teaspoon of vegetable oil (Sundrop). Brush on to the face and leave it on for 20 minutes till it dries. Then rinse off. This nourishing mask should be used once a week.
For your blackheads around the nose:
*Take 1 tsp of beauty grains or oatmeal and mix with rosewater. Rub the mixture gently on the skin with special attention paid to your nose and problem areas. This will help to dislodge hardened sebum. Leave to dry for a few minutes and then wash with cold water.
to lighten the dark circles:
-Be sure you have 8 hours of your beauty sleep.
-Include a multivitamin with iron tablet in your diet. Eat at least one green leafy vegetable (keerai) a day.
-Make a powder of almonds in a mixie and store it in a bottle. Every morning, make a paste with milk and apply around your eye; let it dry and wash with cold water.
-An excellent and very simple remedy is to gently dab around your eyes with a pad of absorbent cotton soaked in warm tea.
special hints for hindu/indian/dark skinned folks(found on hindu site):
*For your dark knees and elbows:
-Every day take half a piece of lemon and rub on your knees and elbows. This will help to lighten them.
-Take two tablespoons of milk powder; add hydrogen peroxide (this is available with the Chemist) - use a 20-volume strength only). Add enough to make a paste and add a few drops of glycerine and apply to the dark spots; leave it for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. After rinsing, if the skin feels dry, use a moisturising lotion
-To remove the dead skin which makes them look black, use the following beauty scrub once a week: Mix besan (gram flour) with curd and apply on your elbows and knees; let it dry. Scrub in a circular motion and wash with water.
-Mix ½ cup glycerine, ½ cup rosewater and store this in a bottle. Apply daily at night. This will soften your elbows and knees.
*edited 11-14-05*
CAlm skin flare ups!
Use Cinnamon in facial scrubs, cleansers, etc. Cinnamon has antibacterial properties and it helps control oil production and decrease blackheads.
Cool breeze!
Fill spray bottle with cool water and 4 drops lavender oil. Shake well and mist on face and arms to relax.
Hair product residue?
Mix 2 tblspoons lemon juice 1/2cup white vinegar 1/2 cup club soda. Comb through dry hair and after ten minutes shampoo as usual:)
Tub treat:
add a few drops of perfume to 1/3 cup olive/sunflower/almond oil. pour under running water and soak:)
Spicy body scrub!
1/2 cup sea salt 1/4 cup epsom salt 2 tblspoon salt 2 tblspoon olive oil 1 tablespoon ground pepper. Then add 1/4 cup warm water and scrub all over!
citrus bath:
toss orange or tangerine peels into bath. Aroma invigorates and oils in peel will soften.
hungover? or just puffy exausted?
Puree cucumber and put on face. rinse off after 15 minutes.
Herbal hair help:
mint and rosemary will stimulate scalp; sage reduces itch flaking. Pick your herb of choice and set aside. Boil 2 cups of water then add 2 cups of herbs. remove from heat, let cool strain. Pour on hair after shampooing and conditioning. DO NOT RINSE
Exotic facial scrub:
soak 2 handfulls of rice overnight. Then blend w/ 1/4 teaspoon tumeric until very fine.
*edited mid october???*
MILK
Body-Building Pre-Shampoo Hair Pack
Great for fine or lifeless hair, this will add body and luster:
Mix about 1/4 cup dry milk powder with enough water to make a paste, then gently massage the paste into your hair. Cover hair with a hot, damp towel and allow to remain on hair for about 30 minutes, changing the towel when it cools to keep the heat. Rinse and shampoo.
Makeup Remover
Add a dew drops of sweet almond oil to a tablespoon of whole milk in small bowl. Using sterile cotton, gently dab milk and oil mixture onto face, then remove with a fresh piece of sterile cotton. Then be sure to rinse thoroughly, removing all traces of the milk to prevent bacteria growth.
Oily Skin Cleanser
Apply skim milk to your face and then rinse thoroughly with water.
Normal, Dry, or Mature Skin Cleanser
Use whole milk, applying gently to face and then rinsing thoroughly with water.
Gentle Facial Scrub for Oily Skin
Mix 1 teaspoon powdered skim milk with 1 teaspoon honey. Add a few drops of fresh lemon juice, and gently massage face with this mixture. Rinse thoroughly.
Gentle Facial Scrub for Normal, Dry, or Mature Skin
Mix 1 teaspoon powdered whole milk with 1 teaspoon honey and gently massage face with mixture. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
Milk Mask for Normal, Dry, or Mature Skin
Mix a tablespoon of liquid whole milk with 1/4 teaspoon almond oil. Apply a thin layer of this mixture to a clean face and allow to dry. Apply a second layer and allow to dry. Apply a third layer and allow to dry. Finally, apply a fourth layer and allow to dry. Once mask is hard and dry, wash off with a washcloth and lots of warm water.
Cleopatra’s Milk Bath
try this classic formula!
You could also use 1 cup of instant whole milk, instead of liquid milk.
Milk and Honey Bath
A favorite skin-soother: To a warm bath, add 2 drops lavender oil, 1 tablespoon honey, and 2 tablespoons whole milk powder (or 1 cup liquid whole milk). Soak as long as you like, then shower to remove all traces of milk and honey.
Milk and Honey Shower Gel
Pour a little honey into the palm of your hand and add some whole milk powder, mixing to form a gel. Use as you would any shower gel. (Guaranteed to leave your skin feeling silky soft and smooth.)
AVocado:)
Aztec Miracle for Puffy Eyes
This works so well it’s almost scary. Just slice a peeled avocado half into quarter-inch crescent-shapes. Lie down with a few slices under each eye and rest for around 20 minutes. You’ll love the results!
Easiest Facial Mask Ever
Just mash half an avocado and spread evenly on your clean face. Allow to remain for 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. This is best for dry skin types.
Shiny Soft Hair Treatment
In a small bowl, mash and combine: 1 avocado (1/2 for shorter hair)
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
Apply to hair and allow to remain 30 minutes or longer, then shampoo and condition as usual. Amazingly silky, shiny, soft hair!
Soft, Smooth Hand Trick
This gently exfoliating scrub will make your hands noticeably softer and smoother.
In a small bowl, mash:
1/4 of a peeled avocado
1 egg white
2 tablespoons oatmeal
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Combine well and apply to your hands. Leave the mixture on for 20 minutes, then rinse in warm water and pat dry.
Appealing Moisturizer
Turns out we’ve been throwing away (or composting) a valuable part of the avocado!! You can use the inside of the peel as a fabulous humectant and oil-rich moisturizer. Just lightly apply the inside of the peel to your clean face, using gentle upward strokes. You can leave the oil on your face all night or rinse after 15 minutes. Makes a great foundation for your foundation or powder!
Oily-Skin Masque
In a small bowl, thoroughly mash and combine:
1/2 avocado
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 egg white
Apply evenly to a clean face and allow to remain 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and a cloth. Follow with an astringent, if you like.
Quickest Strawberry Scrub Ever
Strawberry’s main skin-pleasing ingredient is alpha-hydroxy acid, a great little substance that helps us slough off dead skin cells so that new, youthful skin is revealed. Here’s a ridiculously easy way to get some of strawberry’s benefits in a New York minute: just cut a berry in half, rub it over your face, and let it sit there for a few minutes, then rinse. Instantly softer, smoother skin!
Sweet Strawberry and Cream Mask
This recipe is so delicious--with berries, cream, and honey--that you might be tempted to eat it instead of putting on your face, but give it a try. It will leave your skin so soft and beautiful: strawberries and cream mask.
Strawberry Foot Scrub
Feet can use a little help in summer, when sandals expose rough dead skin for all to see. This easy scrub helps slough it all away:
INGREDIENTS
8 strawberries
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoons kosher salt
Mix ingredients into a paste, massage well into feet, then rinse and dry.
Puffy Eye Remedy
Just place a few strawberry slices under your eyes and relax for 10 minutes, then remove the slices and moisturize.
Berry Good Acne Remedy
Many of us older women are learning the hard way that you don’t have to be a teen to have acne! But whatever your age, if you get occasional blemishes, this formula is for you:
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sliced strawberries
1 tablespoon sour cream
Mash well to combine, then apply this mixture to your face and allow to stay for 10 minutes or so. Rinse thoroughly.
Strawberry Mask for Oily Skin
Mix equal parts fresh strawberries and plain unsweetened yogurt, mashing to combine. Apply to face, allowing to stay on for around 10 minutes, Rinse.
Strawberry Tooth-Whitener
Simply rub crushed fresh strawberry pulp directly on your teeth to clean and gently remove stains.
Strawberry Hair Conditioner
If you want glossy, silky hair, this one’s for you:
INGREDIENTS
8 fresh strawberries
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Mash ingredients thoroughly and massage into damp hair. Cover with a shower cap and a warm towel. Allow to stay on hair for at least 10 minutes, then shampoo as usual.
HONEY
1. Honey Pat. This is the best way to bring a lively glow to your face and body while you moisturize and smooth. And it’s so much fun! Just bring one of those cute little honey-bears into the tub with you. Squeeze some honey anywhere on your skin and pat it with both hands. As you continue to pat your skin, the honey gets really sticky, and will pull up your skin gently with every pat. This is the BEST for circulation, and you’ll end up with a gorgeous glow. Rinse off the honey when you’ve had enough.
2. Honey Bath. If you don’t have time to pat-and-glow, just add 1/4 cup or so of honey to your bath. Mmmm--sweet, silky, and luscious skin.
3. Honey Shiny Hair. Mix 1 teaspoon honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and 1 quart of warm water. After shampooing, simply pour through hair. Let your hair dry as you normally would; you don‘t need to rinse it out.
4. Moisturizing Honey Mask. Mix 2 tablespoons honey and 2 teaspoons milk or cream. Smooth on face and allow to remain for 10 minutes, then rinse.
5. Honey-Apple Toner. This sweet alpha-hydroxy miracle will help to firm, smooth, and moisturize your skin. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 peeled, cored apple with a tablespoon of honey and pulse until smooth. Apply pulp gently to face and allow to remain for 15 minutes, then rinse.
6. Good-Enough-to-Eat Facial Cleansing Scrub. Combine 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon finely-ground almonds, 2 tablespoons dry oatmeal, and enough lemon juice to moisten. Massage mixture gently onto face, then rinse with warm water.
7. Honey Hair Conditioning Treatment. This great formula combines the benefits of honey and olive oil for lustrous, silky, healthy hair and scalp. Simply combine 1/2 cup honey and 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup olive oil (depending on the dryness of your hair and scalp). Saturate hair and scalp with this conditioner, then put on a shower cap and allow the conditioner to remain for 30 minutes before you shampoo and rinse as usual.
Directions for using honey in hair.
Add a teaspoon of honey to a teaspoon of shampoo, or use honey by itself as a wonderful hair pack and conditioner.
Work 1/2 cup through your hair (using more or less according to your hair length).
Put a plastic shower cap or bag over the hair for 20 to 30 minutes to let your body heat optimize the conditioning benefit of the honey, then shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Lusterous hair conditioner
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces aloe vera gel
1/2 teaspoon oil (avocado, jojoba, or even olive oil will work)
2 ounces organic apple cider vinegar
1 ounce powdered milk
1. Combine ingredients in a bowl and apply to clean, wet hair. Allow formula to remain on hair for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse well with warm water.
Makes enough for 1 treatment.
Basic Emollient Bath Recipe
All of the ingredients asked for in this recipe are found in most health food stores.
1 to 2 ounces apricot kernel, avocado, almond, flax seed, or jojoba oil
1 ounce pure vegetable glycerin
2 ounces aloe vera gel
A few drops pure essential oil of your choice.
Add the ingredients to the tub while it is filling.
Makes about 1/4 cup, enough for 1 bath.
Basic Honey Bath Recipe
Herbalists have touted honey for centuries because it helps skin retain moisture and is thereby rejuvenating and softening.
2 tablespoons honey
1 cup very hot water
A few drops pure essential oil, if desired
Dissolve the honey in the water. Add essential oil, if desired. Pour the mixture into the bath water.
Makes 1 cup, enough for one bath.
Zazil Toner
1/4 cup cucumber juice (the same pH as the skin)
1/8 cup carrot juice (rich in vitamin A)
1/2 cup spearmint infusion (considered one of the best cosmetic herbs)
1/4 cup chamomile infusion (avoid if you are sensitive to ragweed)
1/2 cup lemon juice (an alpha hydroxy acid)
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.
LIP Balm
1/4 cup vegetable or nut oil,
1/4 ounce beeswax,
1 teaspoon honey or glycerine (humectants),
and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon natural flavoring oil such as peppermint or lemon.
Lip balm is easy to make. Heat the oil and beeswax in a double boiler until the beeswax is melted. Remove from heat and whip with an electric beater until creamy. Add the honey or glycerine and flavoring oil; whip some more. Store in small glass jars. Try different oils on your lips to choose the best one for your skin. Try a drop of apricot kernel oil on your lips and never have to look any further-it feels perfect. And experiment with flavoring oils, too. Flavor it with peppermint flavoring oil, Peppermint is so cooling in warm weather!
The Basic Moisturizing Skin Cream Formula
2 1/2 ounces blended oils (see "What are the Best Oils for Your Skin," below)
1 1/2 ounces coconut oil or cocoa butter
1/2 ounce beeswax
4 ounces distilled or purified water
1 teaspoon active royal jelly (optional; available in health food stores)
30 drops grapefruit seed extract (available in health food stores)
Essential oils of choice (optional)
Weigh the coconut oil and beeswax on a scale. Combine the oils and beeswax in a double boiler, and melt over a low heat, stirring occasionally. This step takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the melted oils and beeswax from the stove and add the water. Mix with an electric mixer until creamy and thick. Stir in the grapefruit seed extract and essential oils (if using). Store in glass jars with screw-on tops. Makes 8 ounces of cream. Note: This cream should last for 4 months or so, but if you see mold growing, discard. When you make kitchen cosmetics, cleanliness is really important so bacteria doesn't grow. Purified or distilled water is used in this recipe because bacteria has been filtered out.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Homemade Fruit Acid Skin Care More Body Care Solutions
Adapted from the "Care2 Ask Annie" newsletter.
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.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.
Fresh Milk and Ripe Tomato Juice Skin Cleanser; More Body Care Solutions
Excerpted from Anti-Wrinkle Treatments for Perfect Skin, by Pierre Jean Cousin.
Good tomatoes are an abundant source of vitamins A, B (including folic acid), and C; potassium and magnesium; and valuable antioxidants and trace elements. The high acid content in the recipe - lactic acid in the milk and fruit acid in the tomato - gives this cleansing lotion a gentle peeling action. Test on the inside arm or wrist for any possible allergic reactions before using on the face.
Ingredients
1 medium very ripe tomato
5 fl. oz fresh whole milk
bottled or spring water
Method: Process the tomato, using a food processor or blender. Strain through a piece of muslin and discard the pulp. Add the tomato juice to an equal amount of milk. Store in a covered container or bottle in the refrigerator. Apply to the face and neck, using cotton pads, once or twice a day. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse with bottled or spring water and pat dry.
Effect: cleanses
Skin types: oily, combination (but test first, see above), not recommended for sensitive skin
Frequency of use: once or twice daily for 1 week
Shelf life: 6 hours in refrigerator
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Treatment time: 10 minutes
Ginger Hair-Grow Scalp Treatment - Formula More Natural Therapies Solutions
Adapted from Naturally Healthy Hair, by Mary Beth Janssen (Storey Books, 1999).
This excellent, easy-to-make scalp conditioning formula really gets your hair growing! It uses ginger, considered one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurveda. With its potent stimulating properties, ginger increases the blood circulation to the scalp which can result in faster-growing hair.
Warming, stimulating, and great for your scalp and hair!
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon sesame or jojoba oil
1. This formula can be applied either before or after shampooing. If applied after, be sure to rinse extremely well.
2. Combine the ingredients, massage into the scalp, and leave on for at least 30 minutes. (You can leave on overnight to receive the maximum benefit.)
3. Shampoo or rinse out with tepid water.
Milky Way Morning Cleanser
1 tbsp finely powdered oats
1 tbsp finely powered almonds
¼ cup fresh whole milk
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Massage over face and neck, using slow circular movements. Rinse well and follow with toner & moisturizer. This is a rich yet cleansing concoction - treat yourself.
Morning Glory Facial Spread
2 tbsp sour cream
1 teaspoon honey
1 tbsp flour
8 strawberries, mashed (no tops)
Mix all ingredients and smooth into paste. Apply a thick layer over face and neck. Relax and rest for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water. Your face will feel fresh, cooled and clean. Excellent for normal to oily complexions. Ahh…sweet glory!
Livin' on the Wedge Cuticle Conditioner
10 ml cocoa butter
10 drops lemon essential oil
Melt the cocoa butter in bowl placed over hot water. Stir in lemon essential oil. Pour mixture into jar and leave to set. (Can be placed in the fridge to speed setting, but then left at room temperature for use - for a softer, creamier application)
Come to Your Senses Body Splash
90 ml distilled water
5 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops sweet orange essential oil
5 drops lime essential oil
Combine the ingredients and store in a pretty, pretty bottle - preferably with an atomizer. Spritz or splash all over, for a fresh, rejuvenating scent and jumpstart for your day or when you need a little boost!
Soak it Up Tropical Hair Treatment
3 oz coconut oil
1 ripe avocado
20 drops lavender essential oil
This rich, decadent treatment is dessert for your hair. Microwave jar of coconut oil, or set in hot water to melt. Mash avocado and blend in with oil. Add lavender essential oil before the oil solidifies. Keep in glass jar at room temperature. To use, take a generous amount in the palm of your hands and smooth all over hair, massaging hair and scalp. Leave on for one hour and then wash off and follow with a mild shampoo.
The scents of lavender makes this is a perfect night time treatment, you will have the most serene sleep…sweet dreams…zzzz
Banana Supreme Face Mask
1 ripe banana
1 tablespoon (tbsp) honey
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp oats
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mash into a creamy paste, using fork. Apply this rich, hydrating pack to your face and leave on for 10 minutes. Remove gently with cool water, and then pat dry with a clean towel. This is a very nourishing treatment for dry skin, especially in the cold winter months to come.
Glorious Grapefruit Face Mask
1 grapefruit
1 small container plain yogurt
Remove the peel from the grapefruit, and break up the flesh into small segments and remove all seeds. Create a paste with the yogurt and fruit. Leave mixture in refrigerator for one hour. Apply the mask to your face and let sit for 10 minutes. Gently remove with cool water, then pat dry with a clean towel. This is a very soothing and rejuvenating mask for oily or normal skin.
Coconut Cream Dream Milk Bath
3 tbsp powdered coconut milk
1 vanilla pod
Pour coconut milk into a nice hot bath, relax and let the smell of the islands intoxicate you. Leave vanilla pod in the powdered coconut milk for that rich, tropical scent!
Butter Me Up Body Butter
1 ripe banana
1 stick softened butter
1/4 cup whipping cream
flesh of one ripe mango
Blend ingredients - one at a time - in blender or food processor until smooth. Smother mixture all over body (be careful not to drip!), gently massaging it into your skin. You can also smooth this blend all over the face, if you have dry skin, avoiding eye area. Lie on top of towel and just relax for about 10 minutes. This may take getting used to, but the supple, luxurious results should be enough to entice you. Rinse off in the shower and follow by admiring your gorgeous, buttery skin in the mirror.
Banana Dream Boat Face Mask
2 Vitamin E capsules
1 small ripe banana
1/2 soft mango
1 egg yolk
Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. Massage gently all over face and neck creating a thick layer. Let sit for 10 minutes, sit, relax, daydream of pool boys and tropical waves and then rinse off with cool water. This will leave skin feeling moisturized, nourished and super-soft.
Revitalizing and Exfoliating toner:
2.5 teaspoons Apple cider vineager
2 drops lavender essential oil
2 teaspoons oatmeal
Mix, and apply in gentle but firm small circles all over face and neck. Let sit a few minutes then rinse with cold water. Moisturize:)
Calming essential facial
few drops lavender or eucalyptus essential oil
Warm wet towels, microwaved for 15 seconds.
Rub oil over face then place towels vertically on each side of nose. Relax for 5 minutes. Then place towels horizontally over forhead and nose area. (re microwave if nesscary). Relax for anouther 5 minutes. Then use same towels to massage face in circles, then rinse with cold water. (dont moisturize)
Tired or Dull Skin Toners
Citrus Toner
Rub a slice of Lemon, Lime, Orange, or Grapefruit on your skin. Rinse with warm water.
Cranberry Toner
use ¼ cup pure cranberry juice with 1/3cup carbonated water and 1tablespoon witch hazel. Apply with cotton balls. Keep in fridge.
Mint Tea Toner:
Use two tea bags and one cup of water. Refrigerate overnight. Dip cotton balls and pat on skin. Keep in fridge for up to 4 days.
Cranberry #2 toner
Crush raw cranberries in blender. Strain to remove pulp. Soak cotton balls in juice and place on face (not eyes) for ten minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Tired Skin Toner
one cup warm water
3 tablespoons fresh parsley
one half russet potatoes (scrubbed but not peeled)
one quarter unpeeled cucumber
one teaspoon of almond extract
one teaspoon lemon juice in a pan.
mix one cup warm water, 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, one half russet potatoes (scrubbed but not peeled), one quarter unpeeled cucumber, one teaspoon of almond extract, and one teaspoon lemon juice in a pan. Boil then strain and cool. Apply to skin with cotton balls.
Dry skin Face masks
Chamomile Tea Face Mask
Chamomile Tea bag
Olive oil
Vegetable oil
Mix the contents of a chamomile tea bag with teaspoon of olive oil and teaspoon of vegetable oil. Apply to face and neck.Tissue off excess. Leave on overnight and rinse with warm water in morning.
Pumpkin face mask
Can of pumpkin
Use 1/3 cup canned pumpkin as a facemask. Let dry, then rinse thoroughly. Put rest of can in fridge .
Oatmeal Honey Softness Mask
one half cup cooked oatmeal
one teaspoon honey
one egg yolk
one half cup mashed banana
combine one half cup cooked oatmeal with one teaspoon honey, one egg yolk and one half cup mashed banana. Mix together into paste and apply on face, neck, and body. Set for 15 minutes then rinse with cool water.
Bananna Avocado Face Mask
1 bananna
1 tablespoon Avocado
Mash one banana with a tablespoon Avocado. Apply to face and Neck. Leave on ten minutes then rinse.
Melanie Griffith Avocado Mask
Witch hazel
¼ cup Avocado
Add a few drops witch hazel to ¼ cup avocado and mix well. Apply to face for 20 minutes, Massage off in circular motions. Rinse.
Tired or Dull Skin Face Masks:
Chamomile Reviver
Mix the contents of 4 chamomile tea bags with enough water to make a paste. Spread over face; avoid eyes, set for 5 minutes and then rinse with cool water.
Citrus Wake up Mask
Mix juice of an orange with tablespoon of yogurt. Mix well and smooth all over face (avoid eyes). Leave on five minutes. Rinse with cool water.
Avocado Fresh Skin
Mash 1 teaspoon ripe avocado with ½ teaspoon lemon juice. Massage into skin then let dry. Rinse with cool water.
Tired Skin Face Mask
Mix teaspoon of egg, 1-teaspoon brewers yeast, and 1teaspoon wheat germ, with capsule vitamin E. Pat on face and let dry for 15 minutes. Then rinse with soft cloth and warm water.
Dull Skin Citrus Mask
mix juice of a citrus fruit (orange, grapefruit, lemon, etc) with one packet of plain gelatin. Heat until warm. Place mixture in fridge, cool but do not let set (30 min). Spread thin layer on face and allow to dry. Peel mask and rinse with cool water.
Egg Firmer
Egg white
Apply to damp skin. Let dry. Rinse with massaging circles. Pat Dry.
Stressed out skin Face Masks
Salsa Mask
Puree mild salsa in blender. Apply to face for ten minutes. (Do not use salsa with spices or peppers).
Oatmeal Soother
Combine 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal with one whole egg and teaspoon olive oil. Leave on face for ten, and then rinse with tepid water.
Chamomile Tea Mask
Mix the contents of 4 chamomile tea bags with enough water to make a paste. Spread over face; avoid eyes, set for 5 minutes and then rinse with cool water.
Ice Relief
Use ice cubes or eye drops to reduce redness.
Stressed out Skin Body Masks
Pumpkin Body Mask
Mix one Cup pumpkin with 1 teaspoon nutmeg and use as body mask/cleanser.
Grapefruit Thyme Mask
1-cup oil
half-cup grapefruit juice
two tablespoon dry thyme
Mix 1-cup oil; with half-cup grapefruit juice, and two tablespoon dry thyme. Massage in and cver in plastic wrap for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off.
Seaweed Coffee Wrap
Dip dried seaweed (found in health stores) in warm coffee. Wrap skin with seaweed then wrap in saran wrap. Leave on arms or thighs for five minutes.
Firm skin Coffee Mask
Use warm coffee granules to rub skin in circles, then wrap with plastic wrap. The Caffeine will firm.
Fruit Mask (Firms and Exfoliates)
½ cup mashed pineapple
½ cup apple
½ mashed lemon (no peel)
½ grapefruit, 2 tsp anise extract
1 tsp salt
Mix ½ cup mashed pineapple, ½ cup apple, ½ mashed lemon (no peel), ½ grapefruit, 2 tsp anise extract, and 1 tsp salt. Blend well and apply to feet concentrating on heels. Wrap in plastic and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Aloe Vera Honey Mask
Mix aloe Vera gel with honey and rub on sun/or wind burnt skin. This will prevent peeling.
Black heads/pimples, etc:
Chamomile blackhead remover
Steep 3 tea bags in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pour into bowl. Close your eyes and drape towel carefully over your head so steam will go right to your face not the air. Then cleanse with circular motions with washcloth. Should clear blackheads or other impurities.
Oatmeal Calmer
combine one half cup cooked oatmeal with one egg white, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and one half cup mashed apple. Mix together into paste and apply on face, neck, and body. Set for ten minutes then rinse with washcloth.
Brewers Yeast Mask
mix teaspoon brewers yeast and tablespoon plain yogurt and spread on pimples. Allow to dry. Rinse off with cool water.
Honey Citrus Mask
Mix ½ cup honey with ½ cup orange juice. Apply to blemishes. Set for 5 minutes, then rinse.
Cornstarch And Lemon Paste
Mix cornstarch and lemon juice to make a paste. Apply and let dry to blemish. Rinse.
or
dry yeast And Lemon Paste
Mix active dry yeast (yes the kind for bread making) and lemon juice to make a paste. Apply and let dry to blemish. Rinse.(cosmo says that drew berrymore does this)
Tumeric Mask
Mix ½ teaspoon tumeric (found in baking aisle) with a bit of water to form a paste. Apply and leave on overnight.
Gelitan Mask
Mix plain gelatin with one tablespoon milk over low heat. Let cool and apply to face, leave on 30 minutes. Peel off mask.
Papaya Mask
a ripe Papaya
Packet of an herbal laxative
2 Quarts water
Towel
Mash a ripe Papaya into a pulp. Boil 2 quarts water with a packet of an herbal laxative. Apply papaya on face (avoid eyes). Keep face over steaming water (BE careful), Drape towel over your head to direct the steam to your face. Do this for ten minutes. Rinse with warm water and gently pat dry.
Minimizing pores Tomato Mask
Mashing ½ a tomato and setting it on your face. Cover your face with a warm washcloth, and then sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Tara Reid’s Minimizing pores/ Black head Solution
Mix vitamin A powder with your cleanser for minimizing pores, and blackheads
Chamomile Calming Solutions:
make pot of chamomile tea. Freeze into ice cube trays. Pop out and rub gently on skin
White bumps on arms:
Blend 2 tablespoons sugar, One teaspoon lemon juice and a drop of oil. Rub on dry skin in circles. Rinse. Or Mix baking soda and water to cleanse area then apply above recipe.
Bath Soaks(for Dry, Sensitive,or Normal skin)
Lemon Moisture
1 cup lemon juice
1 cup oil
Add One cup lemon juice, with one cup Oil in small bowl. Add to warm bath water. Soak for 10 minutes.
Oatmeal Lemon
Fill basin with warm water add 1 cup lemon juice and 1cup oatmeal. Soak for ten minutes.
Milk bath
1 cup warm milk or 2 Cups powdered milk w/ 1 cup cornstarch
Add vanilla or almond extract for scent
Mix milk and extract in small bowl. Add to bath water. Enjoy
Essential Oil Soak
mix 3 tbs. olive oil and an essential oil (mint, rosemary, etc) and warm in microwave for about15 seconds. Add to warm water in a basin, and soak feet for 10 minutes. Rinse and dry, then apply lotion.
Bath Scrubs
Wheat Germ Scrub
mix with a bit of honey for very dry skin, but if normal skin- just use water to mix.
Rough Skin Scrub:
3tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon almond extract
2 tablespoons each of yogurt
3 tablespoons Sea salt (or brown sugar or cornmeal)
Mix all in small bowl. Rub with brush or washcloth while showering. Rinse well.
Sea Salt Scrub
Mix coarse sea salt with olive oil and scrub, then rinse. Then rub lemon juice for 30 seconds. Rinse well. Pat dry, then moisturize.
Seed Scrub
½ cup sugar
¼ cup poppy seeds (or ground up walnuts, almonds, etc)
½ cup baking soda
A few drops lemon juice
Mix all in small bowl. Scrub briskly with bath brush or loofah. Rinse thoroughly.
Hair
Olive Oil Mask
¼ cup Olive Oil
Blowdryer
applying oil based hair mask, like olive oil or even just conditioner, Blow-dry your hair for ten minutes before rinsing out mask.
Frizzies Fighter
Vitamin E Capsules
Use a few drops between your fingers to lightly pat down hair to smooth frizzies in Hair.
Michelle Pfieffers Hair Secret
¼ cup honey
2 egg yolks
4 tablespoons vinegar
7 tablespoons water
Warm ¼ cup honey, and apply to ends of hair. Then put 2 egg yolks on the shafts of your hair. Cover with shower cap for 20 minutes. Rinse with water then shampoo as usual. Rinse with combination of 4 tablespoons vinegar and 7 tablespoons water .
Mangoe Rich Moisture
One Mangoe
1 tablespoon Yogurt
2 egg yolks
Shower cap/plastic wrap
Mash a mango with 1-tablespoon yogurt then add 2 egg yolks. Blend and spread into hair. Cover with plastic wrap or shower cap and leave on for 20 minutes. Shampoo thoroughly
Moisture Rich Salad Hair Mask
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons vinegar
1-tablespoon mayonnaise
Mix 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons vinegar, and 1-tablespoon mayonnaise. Slather on hair, concentrating on ends. Leave on for 20 minutes. Then rinse well.
Moisturizing Sweet Hair Mask
1 tablespoon each of Vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Soft margerine
1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Maple syrup
Blend well and microwave until warm. Massage through hair. Let set 15 minutes. Rinse then shampoo. (Don’t condition after shampoo).
Egg Stregthen shine
Use 2 yolks and wait ten minutes, then shampoo out.
Dry Shampoo
Baking soda or cornstarch
Dip fingers in baking soda and massage scalp. No need to rinse. OR use cornstarch for blonde hair
Celebrity Lips
Ashley Judd’s Pineapple Smooth Lips
Rub a Pineapple chunk then follow with a dab o f petroleum jelly (the citric acid sloughs off dead skin and the jelly moisturizes)().
Mariah Carey Mint Lips
Mix a drop of mint extract with lip-gloss before applying (the mint stimulates blood flow and enhances color)
Naomi Campell’s Jello Surprise
dip a moistened cotton swab in Jell-O (any color, but try black cherry, or strawberry) Leave it on for 4 minutes and then lick it off. Then top with gloss. (Great lip stain used by Naomi Campbell).
Soap Star Mariel Hemmingway’s Soft Secret
Use hoof cream for smooth and moist lips
To highlight hair
Astrigent Highlites
Use a cheap astringent like sea breeze on small section, then blow dry for 20, or set in sun for ½ hour.
Chamomile Tea Streaks
pour cooled chamomile tea on your hair and sit in the sun (James King uses this).
Tori Spellings Lemon juice Combo
Mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice with 1 tablespoon peroxide. Apply to damp hair, and sit in sun (Tori Spelling)
Dry Feet
Vicks Solution
put Vicks VapoRub on your feet. Wear socks. Will smooth skin by morning.
Foot Tonic:
one-cup milk
one tablespoon dried mint leaves,
1tsp. Rosemary
1 tsp. Peppermint extract
Make a paste and apply with dry washcloth. Remove excess and wrap feet in plastic wrap and stick in socks. Wait 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
Extras:
Shania Twain Dry Skin Fix:
use bag balm (found near lotions in wall-mart) on dry skin or even face. Shania uses when flying. Or put on hands and feet before bed.
Puffy or Red Eyes
Apply cold sliced potatoes or cucumbers. Set for 10 minutes then rinse. OR apply chilled tea bags. The cheaper the better (cheap ones have more tannic acid) OR ice cubes for puffy eyes.
Aromatherapy Neck Roll
Small bowl (holds at least 3 cups water)
2 cups water
6 drops essential oil
2 clean wash cloths (hand or face size, cotton)
Fill bowl with water, heat in microwave for 3minutes or near boil. Add six drops oil. (Use lavender for relaxing, peppermint for headaches (or if tired), etc).Now you can use it in several ways.1> for facial steam and/or deep breathing to relax; keep face 10 or more inches away from bowl, Always keep eyes closed. Drape towel over head to direct steam to your face. Breath slowly and deeply. DO this for a few breaths. Or 2> for headache, or just over all relaxing: dip cloths in water. Wait a bit for water to cool down. Be careful. Wring out excess water, carefully so not to burn your skin. You want them warm, not scalding. Roll the wet cloths and place them under your neck, flat over your face, on forehead, or on your chest. Breathe deeply and relax for at least ten minutes. (This works great on my migraines!)
Pina colada mask
(Pineapple exfoliates and balances the ph of your skin, coconut moisturizes)
¼ cup mashed fresh pineapple
2tablespoons coconut milk
Rub the mixture into your face and neck. Leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Pat face dry with soft towel. Apply your favorite moisturizer.
Orange Honey Facial Scrub
1 tablespoon freshly grated orange peel
1-tablespoon cornmeal
1-tablespoon honey
10 drops orange essential oil (helpful for scent purposes, but not needed)
Mix all in small bowl and apply to damp face and neck. Use small circular motions. Rinse well. Moisturize lightly.
Rosemary footbath (great for circulation!)
Basin large enough for both feet comfortably
Tea tree oil
Rosemary essential oil
Ice cubes
Epsom salts
Sprig or two of rosemary
Pour cold water into basin about 2/3rds to the top. Add 10 drops tea tree oil, 10 drops rosemary essential oil, sprigs of rosemary, and ten or so ice cubes, sprinkle of Epsom salts (2 tablespoons about) to the cold water. Stir well. Soak feet for 10 minutes. Massage feet while in basin, using firm circles and strokes. Dry them off vigorously with a rough towel for one minute.Follow up with Peppermint cooling lotion.
Fizzing Soda pop Bomb Great for favors at party, or as gifts!
Glass bowl
Whisk or slotted spoon to stir with
Cookie sheet
Wax paper or aluminum foil
Ziploc bags
1-cup baking soda
½ cup citric acid
½ cornstarch
2 teaspoons shea butter (melted)
1-tablespoon sweat almond oil
½ teaspoon lemon essential oil
½ teaspoon lime essential oil
1 spritzer bottle of witch hazel liquid
Mix baking soda, citric acid and cornstarch together in a big glass bowl. Add melted shea butter, almond oil& fragrance oils. Spray mixture with witch hazel liquid till mixture gets clumpy and sticks together. Form mixture into balls with hands. Place on Cookie sheet lined with wax paper or aluminum foil. Allow to dry overnight.Place in zip lock bags until ready for use.Simply drop in bath water and watch it fizzle and release yummy scent. Enjoy!
Maui Lip Gloss
2 teaspoons grated cocoa butter
2 teaspoons coconut oil
4 teaspoons macadamia nut oil
1/8 teaspoon almond oil
Few drops of candy flavoring (I used butterscotch)
Combine all ingredients in microwavable bowl. Heat until just melted. Stir well. Pour into small container. Cool till set. Use and Enjoy!
Lavender Lullaby Oil, Safe for babys!
Four oz glass bottle (opaque)
4oz sweet almond oil (or jojoba, olive, etc)
5 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops chamomile essential oil
In a four oz glass bottle (opaque), combine all ingredients. Shake well. Massage on baby before bedtime, or on the adults neck, throat and chest. Breathe deeply.
After Bath “fairy Dust”
¼ cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons baby powder
2 teaspoons loose glitter
Mix all and put in small container w/cover. Dust on chest and upper arms. OR wherever you want.
Product build up Shampoos:
Add a few ground up aspirin to your shampoo. OR mix ¼ cup vinegar with a bit of shampoo. Rinse out.
Apple-Vinegar Rinse(great for product build up)
mix 1/3-cup apple juice and 1-teaspoon vinegar in pitcher. Pour over hair. Comb through. Leave on hair 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water. No need to shampoo.
Blonde hair rinse:
Boil tea, and then cool in fridge. Use on blonde hair after a shampoo for a rinse.
Burnette Rinse
boil a pot of black currant tea. Cool then mix with conditioner or just use as a rinse for Brunettes or dark Hair.
Red Hair Rinse
boil a pot of orange pekoe tea. Cool then mix with conditioner or just use as rinse for red heads, or you could boil a few stalks of rhubarb, then strain and cool. Rinse through hair, set for 20 minutes, and then rinse again with cool water.
Lemon Dandruff fixer:
mix 1 cup juice of lemon and two cups water, and then apply to hair. Then shampoo. Rinse with 2 teaspoons lemon and one-cup cool water.
Thyme to Fix Dandruff
boil 2 tablespoons dried thyme in a cup of water. Cool, strain, and then pour on scalp. Do not rinse out.
Castor Oil Split ends Fixer
use castor oil on split ends (Britney Spears uses this)
Strong Soy Hair
combine ½ cup soymilk with 3 tablespoons cornstarch. Comb through wet hair. Let stand 10 minutes. Rinse well.
Lavender-Rosemary Miracle Grow
(Lavender and rosemary (along with thyme, and Cedar wood) essential oils are proven in several studies (and countless books) to induce hair growth, help it grow longer faster, stop baldness, etc. (has been used for 100 years) Besides it smells great. And is moisturizing. And jojoba oil is proven as a great dandruff reducer, as is lavender.
4 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
1-tablespoon jojoba oil
Small bowl
Warmed cotton towels
Boar bristle brush
Brush out hair 100 times (stimulates hair follicles and distributes natural oils). Mix oils together in small bowl. Lie down on bed or bend over (blood flow to head). Dip fingertips in oils. Massage into scalp, concentrating on front top of head. Massage for at least 2 minutes. Wrap head in warm towel. Lie down and relax for at least 20 minutes. Or you can sleep with it, and rinse out in morning. Either way.
Lavender dry shampoo
Lavender essential oil
Cornstarch
Mix ¼ cup cornstarch with 4 drops lavender w/whisk. Mix well. Apply to scalp and roots of hair. Massage in lightly, a little at a time. Cornstarch soaks extra oils, and lavender makes it smell fresh. Use sparingly.
Conditioning Rosemary vinegar Rinse
Vinegar
Rosemary Essential oils
Water
Mix equal parts vinegar and water. Add 10 drops vinegar. Pour over hair. Massage scalp. Wait a few minutes then rinse. Vinegar smell will vanish when dry
Aromatherapy Hot oil treatment
Olive oil
15 drops Lavender Essential oils
15 drops rosemary essential oil
Mix all ingredients in bowl. Microwave for 25 seconds (till warm). Part your hair in sections and apply to scalp. Massage in. Wrap hair in warm towel and sit for 20 minutes. Shampoo thoroughly, rinse and towel dry.
Full and Thick Pear Mask
Mash a ripe pear (or canned pear) till it equals about ¾ cups, and mix in 1-teaspoon plain gelatin. Apply to just-washed hair. Leave on 15 minutes. Shampoo out. Rinse Well. Condition lightly, only to ends.
Full Hair Nettle rinse
Boil Nettle tea. And apply to clean and damp hair. Do not rinse.
Queen bee hair pack
½ cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
Dash of cinnamon
Mix all. Apply to dry hair, concentrating on tips. Leave on for half hour. Rinse.
Maple sugar hair treatment
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons molasses
Combine in microwave able bowl. Microwave till slightly warm (try 30 seconds). Wet hair then massage into hair. Concentrating on ends.Allow to sit 10 minutes. Wash and conditions as you normally would.
Herbal Reflexology Lotion ( clean scented for feet and Hands)
4 oz plastic bottle with squirt top
Unscented lotion(like Neutrogena fragrance free Body moisturizer)
1 oz aloe vera gel
20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops tea tree oil
5 peppermint essential oil
7 rosemary essential oil
fill plastic bottle half full with lotion, add aloe vera, eucalyptus, lemon and tea tree. Stir and mix well. Close cap tightly and shake to mix completely. Add remaining ingredients. Stir again. Then cap bottle to shake completely. Enjoy foot rubs.
Peppermint Cooling Lotion (*janes personal fave)
4 oz plastic bottle with squirt top (I found mine at New Seasons in Hillsboro next to the Orenco MAXX station)
Unscented thick body lotion (like Neutrogena fragrance free Body moisturizer)
Peppermint essential oil
Tea tree oil
Jojoba oil (or Olive oil)
Lavender essential oil
Popsicle stick
Fill the bottle half full with lotion, add 1 tablespoon olive or Jojoba oil. Add 10 drops peppermint, 5 lavender, and 15-tea tree oil. Use Popsicle to stir as best you can. Put lid back on and shake until well blended. Add more lotion until 3/4ths full. Add one more tablespoon Olive or Jojoba oil, 10 more drops peppermint, 3 more lavender, and 5 more tea tree. Use stick to stir again, then place cap on and shake until blended. This will work great for foot rubs as the tea tree is very antiseptic and will be cooling and work as a deodorant. It feels cold and the smell is very invigorating. Enjoy!
Scented lotions
4 oz plastic bottle with squirt top (I found mine at New Seasons in Hillsboro next to the Orenco MAXX station)
Unscented thick body lotion (like Neutrogena fragrance free Body moisturizer)
20 drops essential oil(s) of your choice
2 tablespoons olive or jojoba oil
Fill lotion half way up. Add half of essential oils, and half of olive oil. Stir, shake and mix well. Add lotion till it is 3/4ths full; add all remaining oils, (extra essential oils if you think it needs more) then stir, shake and mix till completely blended. Here are some scent ideas: lemon mint. rosemary lavender. rosemary lemon. lavender mint. etc. Mix some to match whatever scented body treatment you are using. For example, Rosemary foot bath
Milk and honey Body Mask
¼ cup honey (warmed for 20 seconds in microwave)
2 tablespoons Cream
1 egg
About 20 capsules vitamin E
1-teaspoon vanilla
Optional: 30 drops orange, 10 drops ylang-ylang essential oils
Mix all ingredients well. Apply to body area of choice. Wrap skin in old sheet or warmed towel. Sit for ½ hour. Rinse well. And pat dry with towel. Apply moisturizer.
Tropical Body wrap:
3 cups crushed pineapple
1-cup coconut milk
combine 1-cup coconut milk with 3 cups crushed pineapple in a blender. Place mixture in a bowl, and heat in microwave till warm. Rub mixture into body with body brush or washcloth. Wrap yourself in plastic wrap or in a shower curtain. This mixture combined with the wrapping will induce perspiration. After 20 minutes, remove the plastic and rinse with cool water. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Chocolate Body wrap:
¾ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup honey
mix ¼ cup honey with ¾ cup cocoa powder. Heat in microwave, then stir and apply allover. Shower off after 20 minutes. (This one is a bit messy. Have your husband turn on the bath or grab you anything you might need, other wise it will take longer to clean up). Try following up with adding a brown sugar and vanilla scrub, or adding vanilla to your unscented lotion for after.
Lavender Hand therapy w/ Spa mitts
3 vitamin E capsules
1-tablespoon aloe Vera gel
1-tablespoon olive oil
5 drops lavender essential oil
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 large plastic bags
2 terry cloth oven mitts, spa gloves, or cotton towels
Mix vitamin E, aloe Vera, and oils in a small bowl. Pour a bit of water onto the oven mitts (or gloves or cotton towels) microwave 30 seconds until warm. Then pour the oil mixture all over hands. Slip your hands into the plastic Baggies, then into the warm oven mitts. Sit for at least 20 minutes. Relax and get comfortable. When time is up take of the mitts and Baggies, rinse your hands well. Follow up with a scented lotion.
Parriffin Hand Waxing
4-6 oz Old candles or parrifin
Vegetable oil
Plastic baggies
Flat tupperwear big enough for your hands
melt old candles, or paraffin (you can buy at supermarkets) in a microwave able dish until they melt. Apply vegetable oil or a thick lotion to hands, and then dip in warm (Never HOT) wax. Cover in plastic bags and then put hands into gloves or wrap in warm towels. Let set for 15. Peel off wax. And apply more lotion.
Pineapple Hand therapy
¼ cup pineapple
½ teaspoon vinegar
1-tablespoon honey
1-teaspoon vegetable oil
one egg yolk
OR mix ¼ cup pineapple, ½ teaspoon vinegar, 1-tablespoon honey, 1-teaspoon vegetable oil, and one egg yolk. Mix and apply to hands, concentrating on cuticles. Wrap in plastic bags, then in gloves or warm towels. Set for 15 minutes, and then rinse with water.
Stained Nails Be Gone
Soak hands in white vinegar for ten minutes. OR Mix 2 teaspoons bleach w/ ½ cup warm water and soak nails for 15 minutes. OR use two denture-cleaning tablets in a cup of water and soak for a few moments. As always try to wait a day to re paint or the polish wont stick as well.
Stained nails Rub-off
OR rub lemon juice or a lemon slice over nails. OR try a cotton ball dipped in hydrogen peroxide.
Nail hardeners:
Massage Garlic oil into nail bed and cuticle. OR apply hair conditioner to nails.
Over Night Repair
Rub petroleum jelly into cuticles and slip in gloves. Or microwave 2 tablespoons olive oil, rub on cuticles, and slip in gloves. Now sleep. In the morning remove gloves, rinse, and seal w/ nice lotion.
Lemon Fresh Hand Soak
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1-tablespoon honey
¼ cup olive oil
mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1-tablespoon honey and ¼ cup olive oil. Massage into hands and cover with Plastic bags for 20 minutes. Rinse well.
Lemon hand soak
Juice of one lemon
1 cup warm water
soak fingertips in 1-cup warm water and juice of a lemon. After five minutes the citric acid will soften the cuticle so you can push them back with a cloth.
Soothing Exfoliaters (for dry, or sensitive skin sunburnt, or chafed skin)
Mix powdered milk or baking soda with water. Apply as a paste to damp skin. Let soak for 15 minutes. Rub gently in circles. Rinse. Pat dry. Mosturize
Basic Salt Scrub (good for oily skin)
½ cup salt ( sea , kosher, or kitchen salt)
olive oil.
Mix thoroughly. Apply to knees, elbows, upper arms and lower legs. Massage in circles. Rinse well. Feel free to add 6 drops of your favorite essential oil to liven it up.
Basic Sugar scrub(best for dry, normal, or sensitive skin)
½ cup White or brown sugar
Olive oil
Mix thoroughly. Apply to knees, elbows, upper arms and lower legs. Massage in circles. Rinse well. Feel free to add 6 drops of your favorite essential oil, or 1 teaspoon of vanilla to liven it up.
Lavender Body Scrub
1teaspoon salt
10 drops lavender essential oil
¼ cup vegetable oil
oR mix ¼ cup of lavender oil, 10 drops vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon salt. Massage in and rinse in tepid water. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Honey Walnut Scrub
1-tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup walnuts
Grind ½ cup walnuts into a powder, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1-tablespoon honey. Rub over hands and lower arms, then rinse well. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Chai bath Soak
In small bowl combine:
1-cup olive oil
½ honey
¼ cup vanilla shower gel
10 drops sandalwood essential oil
Pour this mixture under running water of a filling bathtub.
In small muslin (or cotton) bag combine:
1-teaspoon ground cloves
1-tablespoon ground nutmeg
1-tablespoon ground cardamom
1-tablespoon ground cinnamon
Now tie this bag under the running water, around your faucet.Soak as long as you like. Enjoy the spicy aroma. Maybe sip chai tea at same time. Enjoy!
Nourishing Bath Sachets
Small cotton or muslin drawstring bags
4 tablespoon Cornmeal
4 tablespoons Oatmeal
1 tablespoon Powdered milk
1 tablespoons Honey
Essential oil of your choice. 20 drops total
(I tried 15 lemon 5 rosemary, of course lavender, mint, rosemary, etc) Combine all dry Ingredients. Melt honey in small glass bowl (15 seconds in microwave). Add honey to dry ingredients, Stir well. Add essential oils and whisk well to distribute evenly. Put in bags. To use simply pour under running water, or tie bag under faucet. Enjoy!
Milk and Oatmeal Bath Soak
Small cotton or muslin drawstring bags
6 tablespoons oatmeal
6 tablespoons powdered milk
20 drops essential oil of choice (lavender or lemon works great)
Add essential oils to Oatmeal and Milk and whisk well to distribute evenly. Put in bags. To use simply pour under running water, or tie bag under faucet. Enjoy!
Citrus Scrub
Pineapple wedges
Grapfruit halves
Sugar
use wedges of pineapple to scrub and massage into skin. Cleanse lightly. OR
Dip half a grapefruit in sugar and gently scrub all over body. Shower or bathe off.
Rose Scrub
½ cup Epsom salts
rose petals (4 roses worth
Mix rose petals (4 roses worth) with ½ cup Epsom salts. Rub into damp skin. Massage into skin and sit 5 minutes. Rinse off. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Orangey Smooth Scrub
One orange, peel and all
1 cup sea salt
Chop orange (including peel) and mix with coarse sea salt. Massage into dry skin and sit 5 minutes. Rinse off. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer
Wake up Shower Scrub:
1 part coffee grounds (vanilla scented or regular)
1 part brown sugar
1 part unscented lotion (I used Neutrogena fragrance free Body moisturizer)
1 tablespoon grated orange peel (other citrus, like tangerine, etc work too)
1 tablespoon almond extract
1-tablespoon olive oil
Combine all ingredients. Stir well. Keep in wide mouth jar (canning jars work). Massage on skin in circles when in shower. Rinse. Enjoy.
Scented Bath Salt Scrubs
Epsom salt
Olive oil
Essential oils (6 drops lavender 4 drops pepper mint for a Lavender mint Combo, or 10 drops lemon 4 drops rosemary for a Lemon, or 10 lemon 4 mint for lemon mint, or 6 rosemary 1 teaspoon almond extract for a Rosemary almond (<-my husbands favorite), etc. Mix and match. 15 total drops)
Small wide mouth lidded jar (I like canning, or washed and dried lotion containers)
Pour in enough salts to fill the container 3/4ths full. Add a few tablespoons at a time of olive oil, enough to coat the salt. Stir well. Add essential oils on top. Stir again. Use as a scrub before stepping into a bath or shower. Careful. The Oil can make it slippery.
Peaches and Cream Exfoliater
1 peach, pit removed
¾ cup whipping cream
mash a peach and mix with whipping cream. Massage into skin and wait 15minutes. Rinse off. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Macadamia Minty Scrub
two cups crushed macadamia nuts
3 tablespoons fresh mint
½ cup honey
½ tablespoon almond extract
Blend two cups crushed macadamia nuts with 3 tablespoons fresh mint, ½ cup honey, and ½ tablespoon almond extract. Mix into paste and rub all over. Rinse well. Pat dry. Apply moisturizer.
Cocoa java body polish
¼ cup ground coffee beans
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons cocoa powder (un sweetened)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1-tablespoon water
Mix well. Use in shower (may get messy otherwise). Keep in small widemouth jar. Use in shower for less mess. Start at feet, massage in circles, up towards heart. Rinse well. (*Janes personal favorite!)
TIPS
"EDIBLE FACIALS
Before applying most products to my skin I ask myself, "Can I eat this"? As a result I make much wiser choices, choices like avocado, almonds, bananas, cucumber, etc. One of my favorite facial scrubs is 1/4 cup almonds blended with 1/2 cup water (strain and just use almond residue in strainer) ...another is 1/4 cup avocado mashed with 1 Tblsp. cornmeal. I wet my face well with filtered water before applying either scrub.
FRESH LEMON MOUTHWASH
Upon rising I head straight to the kitchen, cut open a lemon and squeeze half of it into 1/2 cup filtered water. I take a good sized sip and swish it around and hold it in my mouth for a minute or so. And with what's leftover, I make a lemonade for drinking later by adding extra water and a little organic maple syrup.
DRY SKIN BRUSHING
When I read that brushing the entire body with a long-handled, natural bristle brush was one of the best ways to help the body detoxify, I took off for the health store and purchased one (they are stiff when new but get softer as they're used). I often like to do the brushing in the bathroom where the sun shines in to see the dead cells/skin come flying off my body.
UNDERARM DEODORANT
The skin under the arms is an open pathway for anything smeared on or sprayed to enter the body. The plot thickens when we shave and make tiny cuts, not all visible, opening other pathways directly into the bloodstream. I just use plain old baking soda under my arms..(thank you Annie!). It's naturally unscented and works like a charm.
STERILIZING WITH GRAIN ALCOHOL OR VODKA
I began using grain alcohol (Everclear) and/or vodka for sterilizing when I read that it's very important to avoid isopropyl alcohol /rubbing alcohol. I use grain alcohol or vodk