HAPPY EXPERIMENTING

Once you have experimented with several of the recipes in these posting and created some custom bodycare formulas of your own, you will want to share them with your family and friends. A large part of the fun of learning how to make bath and body products lies in designing your very own recipes to make for special occasions.

HAND & FOOT LOTIONS

Our hands are one part of our bodies that are almost exposed - to water, household chemicals and external elements like wind, sun and pollution. Unless we moisturize and protect them, they very quickly show signs of premature aging. You can check the condition of your skin by pinching a fold of skin on the back of your hand and seeing how quickly the skin returns to normal. If it takes awhile, consider supplementing your diet wit hVitamins C and B complex until you see improvement.

If you want to add an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to hand creams, an effective addition to formulations is p-methoxycinnamate, a natural substancae derived from cinnamon. Each 1% of p-methoxycinnamate added to your base lotion will increase its SPF by two. A recipe for a nourishing hand cream with an SPF of 8 is given below.

We often overlookl our feet, but they can benefit from a massage using a penetrating aromatherapy lotion. When you first begin to massage your feet, you may be surprised at how many sensitive spots you find, particularly on the soles of your feet and around the heels and ankles.

Adding essential oils to your lotions and creams is also important, as the essential oils are absorbed directly in the areas you are massaging, providing aromatherapeutic benefits as well. After massaging your feet until the lotion is completely absorbed, keep them warm by putting on a pair of socks or slippers and relaxing with your feet up.

HAND LOTION WITH SPF 8
Ideal protection for your hands! This formula contains rich moisturizers, anti-oxidant vitamins, and a natural sunscreen.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced body lotion (see*)
• 2 tsp p-methoxycinnamate
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin A
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 50 drops sandalwood Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops rosewood Pure Esssential Oil
• 20 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Pour the unfragranced loiton into a bowl and stir in the lecithin, vitamins and the p-methoxycinnamate. Then add the essential oils drop by drop, stirring constantly. When the mixture is fully blended, pour it through a funnel into a bottle and cap tightly. Use as needed.

HERBAL LOTION FOR FEET AND HANDS
This fresh, clean smelling lotion contains nourishing ingredients to treat your feet and hands, as well as pure essential oils to stimulate and energize.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragrancaed body lotion (see*)
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 50 drops eucalyptus Pure Essential Oil
• 25 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops tea tree Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops peppermint Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil

Pour the unfragranced lotion, aloe vera gel and lecithin into a bowl, and add the essential oils, drop by drop. Stir well until the lotion is completely blended. Pour through a funnel into a bottle and cap tightly. Apply as needed. When massaging feet and hands, use deep, small circular motions, and apply gentle but firm pressure to sore points. Continue until the lotion has been fully absorbed. Finish your massage with long , sweeping strokes away from the body.

BODY LOTION*
A nourishing natural body lotion is simple to make with this one-jar process.

• 2 tbsp (30ml) cold-pressed oil
• 2 tbsp shea butter or cocoa butter
• 2 tbsp sorbitan monostearate
• 2 tsp (10ml) isosteroyl lactylate
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin

Place the ingredients in a durable 8 oz (240ml) glass kitchen jar. Bring 6 oz (180ml) distilled or spring water or herbal infusion to a boil, and pour it over the ingredients. Cap tightly, cover the jar with a folded handtowel and shake the jar for 30 seconds. Uncap the jar and leave the lotion to cool for about 30 secondes. Add drops of lemon juice. To preserve the lotion, stir in 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or 1/2 tsp Germaben II while the lotion is cooling. Cap the bottle and shake again, then leave it to set up to a thick, smooth consistency.

FOOT POWDERS & SPRAYS

Foot problems are very common these days and stem from a variety of causes. One major and often overlooked cause is the use of synthetic shoe materials which do not allow the feet to 'breathe' properly, resulting in damp and sweaty feet which provide a breeding ground for bacteria.

Fortunately, help is readily available in the form of pure essential oils - the answer to infectious foot problems. The essential oils listed below can resolve a foot problem in a very short time and will keep your feet fresh, deodorized and resistant against the recurrence of athlete's foot and other skin conditions.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR USE IN FOOTCARE FORMULAS
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For swelling and fluid retention:

• juniper berry
• cypress
• lemon
• grapefruit
• petitgrain
• bitter orange
• chamomile
• rosemary
• yarrow
• valerian

For itchy, infected skin:

• tea tree
• rosemary
• lavender
• niaouli
• cajeput
• eucalyptus
• lemon
• marjoram
• thyme
• sage

For sweaty, sticky skin:

• peppermint
• spearmint
• sweet orange
• mandarin
• lemongrass
• sandalwood
• cedarwood
• lemon
• lavender
• geranium

To fragrance and soften skin:

• neroli
• lavender
• rose geranium
• sweet orange
• mandarin
• ylang-ylang
• sandalwood
• chamomile
• patchouli
• vanilla

THERAPEUTIC FOOT POWDER
A medicinal powder that contains active elements to disinfect and heal inflammed and infected feet.

• 1/2 cup (4 oz) arrowroot powder
• 1 tbsp sea clay powder
• 20 drops tea tree Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops white thyme Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops Spanish sage Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops lavender Pure Esssential Oil

Mix the powders in a bowl and whisk in the essential oils, drop by drop. Be sure to break up all the droplets of oil with the whisk. Once the powder is fully blended, spoon it into a wide-mouthed shaker jar (a cheese shaker works well) and cap tightly. Use as needed.

FRESH AND FRAGRANT FOOT POWDER
A silky floral-fragranced powder to use in the morning to keep feet cool and fresh all day long.

• 1/2 cup (4 oz) cornstarch
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) rice starch
• 1 tbsp white clay powder
• 20 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops mandarin Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops neroli Pure Essential Oil

Mix the powders in a bowl and whisk in the essential oils, drop by drop. Rotate the whisk slowly around the bowl in concentric circles to break up the oil droplets and blend them well into the powders. Once all the ingredients are completely blended, spoon into a shaker jar and cap tightly. This powder is excellent to use in the morning before putting on your shoes. It also makes a fragrant and long-lasting powder for scenting linens and upholstery, and can be sprinkled on tissues and tucked into closet drawers for freshness.

CITRUS ALOE SPRAY
A refreshing, deodorizing spray for sweaty, sticky hands or feet.

• 7 oz (210ml) distilled water
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 60 drops mandarin Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients and pour through a funnel into an 8 oz plastic bottle. Spray on as needed.

FRICTION RUB AND SPRAY
Many people suffer from swelling of hands, feet and ankles as a result of circulatory problems, weather fluctuations and long-distance air travel. Essential oils, herbal extracts and alcohol create a 'friction rub' which reduces fluid retention and inflammation.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled or spring water
• 1 oz (30ml) witch hazel extract
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30ml) unflavoured 90-proof vodka
• 1 tsp (5ml) polysorbate 20
• 20 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops chamomile Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops grapefruit Pure Essential Oil

Pour all liquids into a glass measuring cup and whisk until blended. Use a funnel to decant the mixture into a bottle. Shake well before each use. To use, splash the liquid into the palms of both hands and briskly massage the swollen areas for several minutes until the swelling subsides. To convert the rub into a spray, attach a spray mister to the bottle and spray the affected areas. The liquid evaporated from the skin, leaving a cool, fresh feeling.

HAND & FOOT BATHS

While we take daily bathing and showering for granted, we tend to forget that our hardworking hands and feet are often in need of special therapeutic care. We use our hands constantly during the day, stretching, flexing and sometimes over-extending them through repetitive movements in the course of our work. Wrist and joint pain can result from overuse.

We also underestimate the stress on our feet cause by long hours of standing, particulaly in poorly-fitting shoes or with bad posture. Feet in particular benefit greatly from customized footbaths containing healing substances such as mineral salts, natural sea salts, herbs and essential oils.

Next time, you have had a particulary busy or stressful day, try an aromatherapeutic footbath and foot massage while you are unwinding and watching TV. Your feet will thank you!

MINERAL/HERBAL FOOTBATH
A therapeutic footbath with detoxifying mineral salts and purifying essential oils.

• basin of hot water
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) coarse sea salts
• 1/2 cup (4 oz) Dead Sea mineral salts
• 5 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 5 drops grapefruit Pure Essential Oil
• 5 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil

Stir the salts and oils into the basin of water and submerge your feet for 10-15 minutes. This combination of ingredients is detoxifying and may make you feel drowsy, so this is a good footbath to take before bedtime. Be sure to drink lots of water during and after the session. Finish with a foot massage with your choice of powder, oil or lotion.

AROMATIC REFLEXOLOGY FOOT SPA
An experienced for overworked and aching feet. The heat of the water and the stones, and the therapeutic herb and flower oils combine to bring much-needed relief.

• basin of hot water
• one dozen smooth stones, about 2"-3" in diameter
• 5 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 5 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 3 drops lemongrass Pure Essential Oil
• 3 drops geranium Pure Essential Oil

Pour the hot water over the stones in a basin large enough to fit both feet comfortably, and stir in the essential oils. Submerge your feet, and once they start to feel relaxed rotate your ankles, flex your toes and rub the insteps of both feet on the warmed stones. If you feel adventurous, you can give your feet an extra workout by trying to pick up the stones with your toes! After soaking feet, dry them off and treat them to a massage with powder, lotion or oil.

AROMATIC POT-POURRI HAND SOAK
This is a fragrant herbal 'tea'with bio-active elements to soothe and repair sensitive dry skin.

• large bowl of warm water
• handful of mixed herbs to include rosebuds, lavender marigold and chamomile
• 3 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 3 drops chamomile Pure Essential Oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) infused calendula oil

Place the herbs in a muslin drawstring bag, or add them directly to the water. Stir in the essential oils and infused calendula oil. Soak your hands up to the wrists in the mixture for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with warm water, towel dry and treat yourself to a hand massage with a nourishing lotion or cream. Your hands will feel relaxed and renewed.

HAND & FOOTCARE

Nail Conditioning Treatments
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Like the hair, nails are composed of keratin, a strong protein that is flexible and more resistant to the elements than the skin itself. Our translucent nails are a protective outgrowth of the fingertips, and they contain no nerves or live cells.

The body of the nail is nourished by the nail bed on which it rests, and the underlying matrix, which contains nerve endings, blood and lymph. A healthy nail matrix will deliver vitamins, minerals and other nutrients to the nail bed. If the blood and lymph are rich in nutrients, and regular massage, care and maintenance are given to the hands and fingertips, the result will be smooth, strong, beautiful nails.

Interestingly, the more the nails and surrounding cuticles are massaged and manipulated, the strongerand healthier the nails will become. Healthy, well-manicured nails provide an elegant finishing touch to our hands, which are constantly on display as we perform our daily tasks, assist others and express our thoughts and emotions.

Probably the plant most closely associated with hand and nail care is the lemon, and lemon juice is a key ingredient in most recipes. Lemon juice has anti-bacterial, deodorizing and bleaching qualities and is used to fade age spots, whiten skin and nails and stimulate healthy nail growth. Both lemons and the pure essential oil of lemon, expressed from the peel, are inexpensive and readily available.

SIMPLEST NAIL WHITENER
Cut a whole lemon in half, and press your fingernails into the cut half, rubbing cuticles and nails against the inner white portion of the peel. Massage your nails this way for several minutes before rinsing them under warm running water. Rough skin on elbows and knees can also be smoothed and softened by rubbing them with the cult lemon halves.

REFRESHING CITRUS NAIL SOAK
A fresh, anti-bacterial soak to deep cleanse the skin and nails.

• 8 oz (240ml) heated spring water
• juice of one lemon
• 1 tbsp (15ml) aloe vera gel
• 10 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients in a small container, and soak fingertips for 5-10 minutes.

LEMON OIL NAIL STRENGTHENER
A conditioning and strengthening warm oil treatment for healthy nails.

• 1/2 oz (15ml) avocado oil, warmed
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 10 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil

Mix the carrier oils and lemon essential oil and pour into a small glass bottle with the cap on (but not tightly). Stand the bottle in a half-full mug of just-boiled water. Pour the warmed oil into a small bowl and soak nails and fingertips for 5-10 minutes.

HEALING CITRUS NAIL AND HAND SALVE
A rich and nourishing 'barrier cream' for hardworking hands. Shea butter and lecithin give the salve its creamy, healing quality.

• 2 tbsp shea butter (or cocoa butter)
• 1/2 oz (15ml) hazelnut oil
• 1/2 oz (15ml) avocado oil
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 30 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops mandarin Pure Essential Oil

Melt the shea butter in a bowl and add the avocado and hazelnut oils. Stir in the lecithin, and when the mixture cools slightly, the lemon and mandarin essential oils. Store the salve in a wide mouthed glass jar and apply as needed.

In addition to pure essential oil of lemon, have fun experimenting with other citrus oils:

• grapefruit
• bergamot
• mandarin
• lime
• sweet orange
• bitter orange
• blood orange

Hand and Foot Cleansers
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Our hands and feet are frequently exposed to a great deal of strenous activtity, so it's wise to take special care of them, cleaning thoroughly to remove dirt, grime and sweat and softening them with water and cleansers to refine rough, chapped skin and to restore lost moisture. Like the rest of the body, skin on the hands and feet needs effective but gentle cleansing.

The skin on the back of the hands is particularly thin and vulnerable and receives constant exposure to external elements, making hands the first part of the body to reveal aging.

UV exposure, chemicals and detergents can also exact a toll on the hands. Our feet are expected to support us through all our daily activities while encased in footwear that is sometimes constrictive and cumbersome. The result is often sweaty, aching feet that are susceptible to infections and irritations.

The nerve endings in both feet and hands are particulary sensitive, so it's no wornder that a footbath or hand soak with softening cleansers feels so wonderful when we remember to treat ourselves to them!

Refreshing essences like peppermint, lemon tea tree and rosemary are popular choices for hand and foot cleansers. The menthol content in peppermint provides a stimulating hot/cool sensation to weary, overworked feet. Here are 3 recipes using pure essential oil of peppermint to deep-cleanse and refresh your deserving hands and feet.

GEL BASE*
A multi-purpose bath and shower gel made with mild and gentle cleansing agents.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled water or herbal infusion
• 2 oz (60ml) polyglucose
• 1 oz (30ml) coco betaine
• 1 tsp xanthan gum
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II

Combine all the ingredients in a blender, adding the xanthan gum powder last. Run blender on the lowest setting for 5-10 seconds. The mixture will be white and frothy. Pour the liquid through the funnel into a clean bottle and cap tightly.

GARDENERS' ROSEMARY AND PEPPERMINT CLEANSER
Green clay is a favourite for absorbing dirt and soil on the skin and gently removing it. This liquid cleanser is a favourite for gardeners and anyone whose hands are exposed to oily dirt and grime.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced gel base (refer *)
• 2 tbsp green clay powder
• 25 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 25 drops peppermint Pure Essential Oil

Pour the gel base into a bowl and slowly stir in the clay powder and rosemary and peppermint oils until you reach a smooth consistency. Using a funnel, pour the mixture into a plastic squeeze bottle. Use in place of soap. Your skin will feel smoother, softer and cleaner overall.

PEPPERMINT AND BLACK WALNUT SCRUB
An invigorating scrub for feet and hands, with the brisk aroma of peppermint and the dirt removing properties of black walnut hulls.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced gel base
• 3 tbsp black walnut hulls
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 50 drops peppermint

Pour the gel base in a bowl and stir in the other ingredients until fully blended. Store the finished mixture in a wide-mouthed glass jar and use a spoon to stir up the ingredients before using. Use with a washcloth or brush on the feet and on the palms of the hands as needed.

PEPPERMINT FOOT LOTION
This all time favourite makes your tired feet feel like new! The addition of tea tree oil provides antibacterial benefits.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced lotion (refer to previous posting -body lotion recipe)
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 40 drops peppermint Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops tea tree Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops rosemary Pure Esssential Oil

Combine all ingredients in a measuring cup or beaker, stir well, and pour into a bottle. Use as needed to revive feet.

INFUSED OILS AND PERFUMES

Infusion of flowers in oils and fats to make perfumes, unguents and ointments is one of the most ancient traditions. One of the most popular plants for infusion is calendula, whose golden petals produce a healing, skin-regenerating oil.

The famous 'Monoi' of Tahiti is made of coconut oil in which white gardenia blooms have been infused in the sun. Enfleurage, the basis of much traditional perfume making, employs the method of combining fragrant flowers with solid fats to extract their volatile aromas. These traditions are still practiced in countries around the world to this day.

You can try your hand at infusing flowers at home to create delicately fragrant infused oils. White flowes - gardenias, tuberose, stephanotis - are especially well suited to this technique. If you have a garden, experiment with old-fashioned roses and strongly-scented garden flowers and herbs. You can also make natural oil-based perfumes by combining this oil or a heavier oil such as jojoba with a few drops of precious absolutes such as rose, jasmine, orange blossom, carnation, hyacinth or narcisssus.

Solid perfumes can be made with the addition of melted beeswax. A drop or two of oakmoss, sandalwood, benzoin or vanilla will give your creations a wonderful depth and richness.

OIL OF WHITE FLOWERS
Pick unsprayed flowers early in the day, when their fragrance is at its peak, and place them in a shallow ceramic container with a clear glass lid. Pour golden olive oil over the flowers to cover them. Place the container in a warm place for one week. Using a wooden spoon, press the flowers to extract their essences, then strain them out of the oil and replace them with fresh ones.
Repeat this procedure once or twice more. Once your oil has the gentle, characteristic aroma of the flowers, decant the oil through a funnel lined with cloth into a glass bottle.

NATURAL PERFUME
You can customize the following recipe with any essential oil or exotic absolute or blend that you like.

• 1 oz (30ml) refined jojoba oil
• 20 drops absolute (or 50 drops essential oils, or blend)

Pour the jojoba oil into a small bowl and pour in the drops of absolute or essential oil blend. Stir until thoroughly blended and decant into an attractive perfume decanter using a small funnel. You can also use unflavoured vodka in place of the jojoba oil if you prefer an alcohol-based perfume. Rub drops on your wrists and pulse points as needed

LOTIONS AND BODY MILKS

Have you ever used a lotion frequently during the day, only to find that your skin actually feel increasingly dryer between applications? Your skin may not be the best candidate for commercial lotions containing mineral oil, synthetic scents and a variety of chemical ingredients in the formula.

Sensitive skins in particular require a light natural lotion composed primarily of vegetable or nut oils, with a large complement of humectants and moisture factors. Dry skin types need a creamy lotion rich in cold-pressed oils with specialty oils and butters to nourish skin with essential nutrients. Many people also prefer a lotion to an oil for bodycare. Vitamins and essential oils add anti-oxidant pproperties, therapeutic values and natural fragrance to lotion formulas.

Lotions for everyday use can be customized with a variety of essential oils to suit the needs of different skin types. Refer below for recommendations of essential oils to blend into the unfragranced lotion base outlined later in the posting.

Try your creativity making other types of lotions. such as body milks and perfumes voiles. Body milks are lighter, pourable lations with a high water content. Perfumed voiles (or veils') are silky lotions with a higher concentration of natural fragrance, designed to be applied to the hands, arms and neck as a first 'layer' before applying perfume. The possibilities are endless - let your imagination be your guide!

ESSENTIAL OIL
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• Basil (Ocimum basilicum) - flowering tops
• Benzoin** (Styrax benzoin) - resin
• Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) - rind of fruit
• Cedarwood Atlas (Cedrus atlantica) - wood
• Chamomile, German (Chamomile recruitita - flowers
• Chamomile, Roman (Chamaemelum nobile - flowers
• Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) - flowering tops
• Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) - leaf
• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) - leaf
• Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) - resinous gum
• Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) - flowering tops
• Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) - rind of fruit
• Jasmine* ( Jasminum officinale) - flowers
• Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis) - berry
• Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) - flowering tops
• Lemon (Citurs limonum) - rind of fruit
• Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) - rind of fruit
• Melissa (Melissa officinalis) - flowering tops
• Myrhh (Commiphora myrhha) - resinous gum
• Neroli (Citrus aurantium bigarade) - flowers
• Orange, sweet (Citrus aurantium var. dulcis) - rind of fruit
• Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii - grass
• Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) - leaf
• Peppermint (Mentha piperita) - leaf
• Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium var. amara) - leaf / branch
• Pine, Scotch (Pinus sylvestris) - leaf
• Rose* ( Rosa damascena) -flowers
• Rosemary (Rosmarimus officinalis) - flowering tops
• Rosewood (Ocotea caudata) - wood
• Sage, Spanish (Salvia lavendulaefolia) - flowering tops
• Sandalwood ( Santalum album) - wood
• Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) - leaf
• Thyme, White (Thymus vulgaris) - flowering tops
• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) - root
• Vanilla** ( Vanilla planifolia - seed pod
• Verbena ( Aloysia triphylla) - leaf
• Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata genuina) - flower

*Absolute ** Oleoresin

BODY LOTION*
A nourishing natural body lotion is simple to make with this one-jar process.

• 2 tbsp (30ml) cold-pressed oil
• 2 tbsp shea butter or cocoa butter
• 2 tbsp sorbitan monostearate
• 2tsp (10ml) isosteroyl lactylate
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin

Place the ingredients in a durable 8 oz (240ml) glass kitchen jar. Bring 6 oz (180ml) distilled or spring water or herbal infusion to a boil, and pour it over the ingredients. Cap tightly, cover the jar with a folded handtowel and shake the jar for 30 seconds. Uncap the jar and leave the lotion to cool for about 30 minutes. Add drops of lemon juice.

To preserve the lotion, stir in 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or 1/2 tsp Germaben II while the lotion is cooling. Cap the bottle and shake again, then leave it to set up to a thick, smooth consistency.

FRENCH LAVENDER BODY MILK
Discreet and sophisticated, the fragrance of French lavender permeates this satiny lotion.

• 7 oz (210ml) unfragranced body lotion*
• 1 oz (30ml) vegetable glycerin
• 80 drops French lavender Pure Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients together in a glass measuring cup or beaker. Stir well to blend. Pour the lotion into a glasss bottle.

ORANGE BLOSSOM DODY LOTION
A silky body lotion with the soft, sensual fragrance of orange blossoms. Sweet, warm and euphoric! For all skin types.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced body lotion*
• 40 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops neroli Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Mix all the ingredients together, pour into a glass bottle, and use as needed.

ROSE AND PATCHOULI SENSUOUS PERFUME VOILE
This sensual, exotic body lotion is made with rose, and blond Indonesian patchouli, known for its aphrodisiac qualities. Real Madagascar vanilla adds warmth, depth and vibrancy to the blend.

• 6 oz (180ml) unfragranced body lotion*
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30ml) vegetable glycerin
• 20 drops vanilla oleoresin
• 20 drops patchouli Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops rose geranium Pure Essential Oil
• 8 drops rose absolute

Mix all ingredients together in a glass measuring cup and stir with a whisk until well blended. The mixture should be liquid and silky. Pour the lotion into a decorative or crystal bottle. This exotic, aromatic beauty fluid is unsurpassed for fragrancing and softening the skin.

BODY OILS

Most people are familiar with only two types of body oil - 'baby oil' and 'massage oil'. 'Baby oil' is mineral oil from petrochemical sources with a synthetic fragrance added. Mineral oil has been linked with acne and is also believed to leach vitamins from the body.

'Massage oil' vary enormously in ingredient quality and overal effectiveness. Many massage oils are made with heat-treated or solvent-extracted oils that may also not be entirely fresh. Fatty acid peroxides, also known as 'free radicals' wreak major damage on oils that have been weakened by heat or chemical treatment, resulting in a shortened shelf life. You can easily recognize a peroxidized massage oil by its characteristic rancid smell, and in extreme cases, by the sticky, crystallized deposits between the neck of the bottle and the lid.

Too many commercial massage oils are fragranced with synthetic aroma chemical fruit and flower scents, which are foreign to the body and are not recommended for application to permeable body skin. No heat or chemical treated oil, stale oil, or oil with synthetic fragrance additives should ever be used in the practice of professional full body massage.

So, how do you go about finding a first class body oil for massage and skincare?? The answer is simple. Nourishing body oils are incredibly easy to make yourself. Obtain the freshest cold pressed vegetable, seed or nut oils you can find, add oil-soluble and special ingredients like phospholipids, herbal infused oils and pure essential oils and you will have created the ultimate body oil - in less than five minutes.

Your body formula can be customized with the aromatherapeutic essences of your choice, and can be used for massage and general skincare, for scalp and hair treatments, hand and footcare, and as a bath oil.

BODY OIL*
A multi-purpose oil for massage, skincare, or for use after a bath or shower, this basic bodycare recipe combines cold-pressed vegetable and nuts oils with skin nurtured speciality oils and vitamins.

• 4 oz (120ml) hazelnut oil
• 4 oz (120ml) pecan or safflower oil
• 1/2 oz (15ml) wheatgerm oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) Vitamin E

Combine the natural oils and Vitamin E in a bowl, and stir until blended. Pour the oil through a funnel into a bottle and cap tightly. You can add up to 200 drops of the essential oils or oil blend of your choice to 8 oz / 240ml of carrier oil.

DELUXE AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE OIL
A multi-purpose oil designed to soothe and care for the skin in need of nourishing treatment. Vitamin E and evening primrose oil add richness and texture. For all skin types.

• 6 oz (180ml) unfragranced body oil (see the body oil recipe*)
• 1 oz (30ml) evening primrose oil
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 100 drops of the essential oils or blend of your choice

Mix all oils together in a beaker, stir and pour into a bottle. Apply liberally as needed.

SERENITY AORMATHERAPY SKINCARE OIL
This smooth, fine-textured oil has a fragrance reminiscent of orange orchards in full bloom!

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced body oil (see the body oil recipe*)
• 30 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops East Indian sandalwood Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops neroli Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops vanilla oleo-resin

Mix all the oils together, stir and decant into a glass bottle. This oil is an excellent oil to use after a bath or shower. A massage with 'Serenity' oil is blissful, heavenly experienced.

DUSTNG POWDERS

Men, women and children alike love the soft, luxurious feel of a silky dusting powder against clean skin. Body powders feel great after a bath or shower, or after sports and physical activities. Natural dusting powders are easy to make and have important advantages over similar products on the market.

Make your own body powders using all natural ingredients such as fine grain flours, starches and cleansing clays. An excellent base for a natural body powder, with white clay added. Rice starch and oat starch are pure, fine white powders which add elegance and 'hand feel' to powders. Fragrant essential oils add their clean botanical aromas and therapeutic advantages. Once made, display your powders in beautiful old-fashioned glass jars or antique salt shakers. If you are making powders for children's use, small salt and pepper shakers or plastic squeeze bottles are a good choice.

To make a natural body powder, combine the dry materilas in a bowl, and blend together slowly using a metal whisk. Add the essential oils, taking care to count each drop. As you pour the drops nto the mixture, stir them thoroughly into the powder to break them up and disperse them. Stir in concentric circles, bringing the powder from the edge of the bowl into the middle to ensure that all the powder is blended with the essential oils. Once the powder has acquired the desired fragrance strength , use a spoon to transfer it to your chosen decorative container. The powder will last months, and can be refreshed with essential oils at any time.

SPRINGTIME DUSTNG POWDER FOR LINENS
A clean and fragrant powder for dusting upholstery, linens and pillows to make them smell like the first day of Spring!

• 1/2 cup (4 oz) cornstarch
• 1 tbsp white clay powder
• 30 drops French lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops rose geranium Pure Essential Oil

Mix the ingredients together as described below.* Store in a glass shaker with perforated lid.

DUSTING POWDER*
Natural dusting powders contain a variety of combination of food grade starches, powders and clays, omitting powdered minerals such as talc that can cause respiratory problems. Dry clay powders have a crisp feel and deodorant and absorbent qualities, while fine-milled flours and starches lend a satiny feel and soft finish to powders.

Here is the basic recipe for an unfragranced body powder:

• 1 cup (8 oz) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (2 oz) arrowroot powder
• 2 tbsp white clay powder
• 2 tbsp baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

Carefully measure the powders into a glass bowl, stirring slowly with a wire whisk. Add essential oils to the powder mix drop by drop, ensuring that the drops are broken up in the powder as you go. Continue to stir the powder in concentric circles until the entire mixture gives off the desired aroma intensity. Let the powder sit for 10-20 minutes, stir with the whisk, and add more essential oils if desired.

Once you have achieved the desired aroma and consistency, spoon the powder into small shaker-type glass or plastic jars. Salt and pepper shakersa, grated cheese dispenser and small flour sfrers make excellent containers for body powders, foot powders and dry shampoo. Cap your containers well, label them and keep them away from sunlight, heat or excessive moisture. Use as needed.

GENTLE BODY POWDER FOR CHILDREN
A soft, gently aromatic natural powder safe enough for children to use every day. Use in place of baby powder whenever a mild, absorbent powder is needed.

• 1/4 cup (2 oz) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (2 oz) arrowed powder
• 1 tbsp white clay
• 30 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops rose geranium Pure Esssential Oil

Mix the dry materials together as described in the recipe above and stir in the essential oils. Use a clean, empty plastic squeeze bottle or a pretty salt, pepper or cheese shaker bottle to store the powder.

ELEGANT ROSE PETAL DUSTING POWDER
An intensely fragrant powder for indulging your senses!! Rice starch gives the powder a luxurious feel, and rose absolute its incredible uplifting aroma.

• 1/4 cup (2 oz) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (2 oz) rice starch
• 20 drops rose geranium Pure Essential Oil
• 12 drops rose absolute

Mix the ingredients together, being sure to thoroughly blend in the rose absolute. Store this sensuous, fragrant body powder in an antique sugar shaker or old fashioned glass jar with a fluffy powder puff.

Use the powder whenever you want to give your senses a real treat and make yourself feel truly special!!

BODY SPLASHES & TONICS

Naturally aromatic body splashes are simple to make and milder for your skin than their commercial counterparts, with much less likelihood of sensitivity or irritation. You can make great early morning wake-up refreshers, cooling spritzers for a hot day or reviving splashes for use after the bath or before a big night out. The advantage of natural homemade splashes over commercial products lies in the ingredients.

When making your own body splashes and tonics, you can decide how astringent or mild you would like the formula to be. Mild formulas contain high percentages of spring water or mineral water with the addition of pure aloe vera gel and vegetable glycerin. Bracing toners contain witch hazel extract, an herbal distillate containing 14% alcohol, or a pure drinking alcohol like unflavoured vodka.

Vitamins and herbal extracts can be added for their specific effects. Fragrances and therapeutic values are provided through the addition of pure essential oils. Very little essential oil is needed to make an aromatic water, and you can choose between citrus, herbaceous, floral, woodsy or balsamic aromas, or a blend of several.

Men in particular will appreciate the subtle aromas and refreshing feel of natural body splashes and tonics. Traditional herbs and spices such as bay, clove, nutmeg, lime, vanilla, pimento, cinnamon and sandalwood all lend their unique qualities to water and alcohol based splashes. You can choose to infuse only the herbs and spices, or to add essential oils for an extra dash of fragrance.

Splashes also make great gifts for all occasion, and can be displayed in cut-glass brandy decanters and other decorative containers. They will keep their freshness and distinctive aroma for many years.

GENTLEMAN'S FAVOURITE MORNING SPLASH
A brisk, refreshing morning splash. For all skin types.

• 4 oz (120ml) witch hazel extract
• 2 oz (60ml) mineral water
• 1/2 oz (15ml) unflavoured vodka
• 1/2 oz (15ml) vegetable glycerine
• 10 drops bergamot Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops pimento berry Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops cinnamon Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops sandalwood Pure Essential Oil
• dried mixed spices (include your favourites: cinnamon stick, vanilla beans, clove buds, all spice berries, nutmeg, star anise)

Combine all ingredients in a measuring cup or beaker and stir well. Drop the dried spices into decorative glass bottle and pour the liquid over them. Use as needed.

BITTER ORANGE AND CLOVE AROMATIC TONIC
A fruity, aromatic tonic which can be used as a body splash, scalp tonic, skin refresher or eau-de-cologne. For all skin types. Use as desired.

• 6 oz (180ml) witch hazel extract
• 1 oz (30ml) vegetable glycerin
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 20 drops clove bud Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients in a measuring cup and stir well. Pour into a glass bottle using a funnel and cap. Shake the bottle before each use. Apply as needed.

LAVENDER BODY SPLASH
A fresh, clean all-over splash to use after a bath or shower.

• 4 oz (120ml) witch hazel extract
• 4 oz (120ml) mineral water
• 40 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops sandalwood Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup or beaker, stirring well. Pour through a funnel into an 8 oz glass bottle. Use the splash whenever you need a refreshing lift.

CELLULITE TREATMENTS

It is estimated that over 80% of women have some amount of cellulite, and while this distressing condition is most often assosciated with being overweight, it is also found among men and those who are underweight. While inactivity and hormonal causes are often attributed, the primary cause of cellulite is the constant ingestion of chemical additives, preservatives, and other non-nutritious components of the typical people all over the world.

The body's lymphatic system, responsible for filtering toxins, deposits these substances in areas of the body away from the vital organs, mamely, the hips, buttocks and thighs. The cellulite is manifested in the form of lumpy, rippled 'orange peel' skin that is often bloated and sensitive.

With dedication and perseverance, it is possible to rid the body of cellulite. If you are serious about eliminating cellulite, regular use of the cellulite reduction formulas that follow will start you on the path to breaking free of this stubborn condition.

In my other blog, I mentioned exercises for getting rid of cellulite, do have a look and you could follow the exercises shown. For best result, seek out a sympathetic and knowledgeable natural health professional who is familiar with the causes and treatment of cellulite , and take advantagae of the many avenues which exist to eliminate this obstacle to total mind/body health and wellness.

GEL BASE*
A multi-purpose bath and shower gel made with mild and gentle cleansing agents.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled water or herbal infusion
• 2 oz (60ml) polyglucose
• 1 oz (30ml) coco betaine
• 1 tsp xantan gum
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II

Combine all the ingredients in a blender, adding the xanthan gum powder last. Run blender on the lowest setting 5-10 seconds. The mixture will be white and forthy. Pour the liquid through a funnel into a clean bottle and cap tightly.

IVY AND GRAPEFRUIT BODY SCRUB
The common garden plant, ivy (Hedera helix) contains phyto-factors that are considered to be excellent in cellulite reduction. Grapefruit and juniper berry essential oils are diuretic and detoxifying, and complement the other ingredients in the formula.

• 6 oz (180ml) unfragranced gel (refer to gel base*)
• 11/2 oz (45ml) ivy extract
• 4 tbsp black wallnut hulls
• 60 drops grapefruit Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops cypress Pure Essential Oil

Pour the gel and ivy extract into a measuring cup or beaker. Stir with a spoon or rod and add the essential oils, stirring well until completely blended. Using a funnel, pour the mixture into an 8 oz plastic bottle. Before giving yourself a treatment, add 1 tbsp black walnut hulls to 1-2 oz gel in a small bowl. Massage the gel over your body daily while showering using a loofah, cloth or body mitt.

IVY AND GRAPEFRUIT BODY LOTION
After showering or bathing, this cellulite fighter supplies plant-derived active ingredients to detoxify and tone body skin.

• 6 oz (180ml) unfragranced body lotion (see below*)
• 11/2 oz (45ml) ivy extract
• 1 tbsp (30ml) unflavoured vodka
• 1 tbsp (30ml) vegetable glycerin
• 60 drops grapefruit Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops cypress Pure Essential Oil

Pour all ingredients into a glass bowl, stir, and when blended, pour into an 8 oz bottle. Apply the lotion liberally after showering. When applying, use the palms of the hands and the fingertips to massage the cellulite affected areas with a kneading motion. Press deeply and firmly to loosen excess fluids and toxins from the muscle tissues. Finish with long smoothing motions with the palms. Let the lotion sink into the skin, and towel off later if desired. Use the gel and lotion as often as desired for best results.

*BODY LOTION
A nourishing natural body lotion is simple to make with this one jar process.

• 2 tbsp (30ml) cold pressed oil eg. sweet almond oil and wheatgerm oil
• 2 tbsp shea butter or cocoa butter
• 2 tbsp sorbitan monostearate
• 2tsp (10ml) isosteroyl lactylate
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin

Place the ingredients in a durable 8 oz (240) glass kitchen jar. Bring 6 oz (180ml) distilled or herbal infusion to a boil, and pour it over the ingredients. Cap tightly, cover the jar with a folded handtowel and shake the jar for 30 seconds. Uncap the jar and leave the lotion to cool for about 30 minutes. Add 20 drops of lemon juice. To preserve the lotion, stir in 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or 1/2 tsp Germaben II while the lotion is cooling. Cap the bottle and shake again, then leave it to set up to a thick, smooth consistency.

BODY MASKS

Full body masks provide cleansing, detoxifying and rejuvenating benefits to skin. While we spend a lot of attention on facial skincare, body skin is often neglected or overlooked. Body skin deserved assistance in shedding flaky, dead skin cells, alleviating dry and rough patches, restoring moisture balance and encouraging a fresh, youthful appearance.

Frequent dry brushing, scrubs, bathing and massages are a good adjunct to these dull body masks made with clays and other natural ingredients.

While clay and mud body masks suit normal to oily skin types, nourishing and moisturizing masks can also be made to improve dry or dehydrated skin. In place of clay, these body masks use honey, eggs, cream and other foods rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Have fun creating your own at home!

To get started, select a recipe and mix up enough for one session. Take a quick warm bath or shower. Then, using your hands or an inexpensive bristle paintbrush, cover yourself with the mask mixture from head to toe. Use an old sheet to cover a comfy place to lie down for 15-20 minutes while the mask dries. Then rinse off in the shower, first with warm water, then with cool. Pat yourself dry and see how soft and rejuvenated your skin feels!!

LAVENDER AND SAGE PURIFYING CLAY BODY MASK
This body mask combines deep-cleansing, mineral-rich sea clay, live yogurt, honey and therapeutic essential oils of French lavender and Spanish sage to create a powerful 'spring cleaning' effect. Be sure to drink lots of cool mineral or spring water during and after this full body treatment.

• 1/2 cup (4oz) sea clay powder
• 1 cup (8oz) cultured, unflavoured yogurt
• 2 tbsp unpasteurized honey
• 1 tsp (5ml) evening primrose oil
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 25 drops French lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 25 drops Spanish sage Pure Essential Oil

Mix the yogurt, honey, evening primrose oil, Vitamin E and essential oils together in a glass or ceramic bowl until thoroughly blended. Add the sea clay powder one teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency for your skin type. Follow the directions given above for applying the body mask. After showering, dry your skin and apply a light mosturizer.

NOURISHING MILK AND HONEY BODY MASK
This nutritious mask uses raw unpasteurized honey and protein rich milk and eggs. Fragrant essential oils, brandy vanilla and vitamins give this body mask an exquisite rich aroma.

• 4 oz (120ml) warmed honey
• 2 oz (60ml) cream
• 1 egg
• 1/2 oz (15ml) brandy
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 20 drops vanilla oleoresin
• 20 drops bitter orange Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Warm the honey by placing the uncapped glass jar in a pot of boiled water. Pour the honey into a glass bowl and add the other ingredients. When the mixture is smooth, apply to your skin with your hands or a paintbrush. Lie down and relax for 20-30 minutes, covering yourself with an old sheet or blanket to retain body heat while the ingredients moisturize and nourish. Afterwards, shower well and pat yourself dry with a towel.

BODY SCRUB

Full body scrubs have grown popularity in recent years. This treatment clears the skin of dead skin cells, encourages elimination of toxins and impurities through the pores, and brings a rosy, healthy glow to renewed skin.

Most people are familiar with body scrub products sold in stores, which gritty particules are held in suspension in a soapy, lotion like base. If you would like to create a natural version of this type of product, it is possible to do so by combining fine ground, dried plant derived materials to the gel base described below. Typically, crushed black walnut, almond or apricot shells provide the exfoliating factor in scrubs. Bear in mind that, if not fine ground, these can be quite gritty and are best suited to those with oilier, coarse skin. An excellent home replacement is raw, turbinado or demerara sugar, added to the gel base just prior to giving yourself a full body scrub treatment.

Other food based scrubs and exfoliants like almond meal, herbal powders and fine ground citrus peel can be added to the gel just before treatment. Use about 1 tbsp of scrub material to a full handful of gel base, or mix in a small bowl for convenience.

BATH AND SHOWER GEL
A multi-purpose bath and shower gel made with mild and gentle cleansing agents.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled water or herbal infusion
• 2 oz (60ml) polyglucose
• 1oz (30ml) coco betaine
• 1 tsp xanthan gum
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II

Combine all the ingrediets in a blender, adding the xanthan gum powder last. Run blender on the lowest setting for 5-10 seconds. The mixture will be white and frothy. Pour the liquid through a funnel into a clean bowl and cap tightly.

LEMON VERBENA SPA SALT GLOW
A superb refreshing and moisturizing all over body. This spa recipe combines purifying salts with cleansing essential oils and fine textured almond oil for moisturizing and to give your skin a healthy and glowing finish.

• 1 cup (8oz) coarse sea salts
• 8 oz (240ml) sweet almond oil
• 40 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops lemon verbena Pure Essential Oil
• 20 drops grapefruit Pure Esssential Oil
• 10 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Stir the essential oils into the sweet almond oil in a measuring cup or beaker. Place the salts in a glass kitchen jar with gasket-type closure. Pour the oil mixture over the salts, close the jar, and let the oils soak into the salts. After several minutes, invert the jar so that the salts become more saturated. Turn the jar right sde up one more time. To use, slip on a dampened hemp, cotton or natural mesh body mitt and take a handful of salts in your palm.

Standing in the shower, use the mitt with the salts to give yourself a 3-5 minute all over body treatment, using gentle circular motions. Add more salts as needed. Finish your session with a brisk, cool shower, and rub yourself dry with a clean towel. Your skin will feel invigorated and brand new!!

VANILLA SUGAR BODY SCRUB

• 2 oz (60ml) unfragranced gel base (refer to bath and shower gel recipe)
• 1/2 oz (15ml) vegetable glycerin
• 2 tbsp raw brown sugar
• 20 drops vanilla oleoresin
• 5 drops patchouli Pure Essential Oil
• 5 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Pour the gel base and glycerin into a small bowl and add the sugar and essential oils. Rub mixture over your body with your hands or a mitt, using circular motions. Follow with a shower with the faucet turned full on. Towel dry and appy a light moisturizer. You will feel and smell delicious.

MILK BATHS

Everyone knows that milk baths are a mainstay in beauty folklore, with famous beauties through the ages testifying to their youth -enhancing, revitalizing properties.
The reasons for milk's great popularity lie in its excellent nutritive value in skincare. Milk is pack with protein, beneficial fats, vitamins, amino acids and calcium and is readily absorbed by the skin, resulting in a smooth, hydrated appearance.

A simple way of experiencing milk's benefits is to pour a pint of regular milk into your bath, stir and soak for 10-15 minutes. Your skin will be noticeably softer and smoother, with a dewy sheen. Milk is also an excellent carrier for essential oil (or oil blend) of your choice in 8 ounces of milk. For dryer skin types, use milk with a high butterfat content, including whole milk, half-and-half, and cream. For oilier skin types, use skim milk, low-fat milk, or powdered milk.

EVERYDAY MILK BATH
The nutritive values of milk combine with the therapeutic values of essential oils to create a fragrant and relaxing bathing experience. You can vary the essential oils used depending on the aromatherapeutic effect you wish to achieve.

• 8 oz (240ml) whole milk
• 10 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil

The soft citrusy aroma of this bath makes it a favourite at any time of day. Combine the ingredients, and stir into bathwater. Soak for 10-15 minutes.

ROSE PETAL MILK BATH
An aromatic treat for a special occasion! A soft, silky bath that feels like a bed of roses. For all skin types.

• 1 cup (8 oz) powdered milk
• handful red rose petals, dried
• 40 drops rose geranium Pure Essential Oil
• rose absolute(optional)

Place drops of essential oil or absolute on each rose petal. Mix the petals gently into the milk powder, and pour into a decorative decanter. Use a handful in each bath.

Vary floral milk baths by using jasmine flowers, orange blossoms, lavender buds, lemon verbena, or dried flowers or herbs from your garden.

KWAN YIN SERENITY BATH
Subtle a spice, fruit and flower aromas combine with nutrient rich milk to create a sensual, euphoric bathing experience. For all skin types.

• 1 cup (8 oz) powdered milk
• 1 tbsp Chinese five spice mixture
• 20 drops mandarin Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops sandalwood Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Combine the ingredients in a bowl, stir well and store in an airtight glass jar. Use a handful in each bath. Relax and dream away!!!!!!!

THERAPEUTICS BATH SACHETS

Soaking in a tub of warm fragrant water is one of the most relaxing, effective ways of reducing stress as well as giving yourself a full body skincare treatment. If you have dry, dehydrated skin, or if you are prone to allergies, rashes and other skin irritations, you can make healing bath sachets using ingredients you probably have right in your kitchen!

Simple, natural ingredients like oatmeal, ground grain and nut meals and brans, honey and milk provide much needed nourishment to trouble skin and bathwater makes the perfect carrier to disperse these healing agents.

Oatmeal in particular has a long tradition of regulating and balancing the skin and assisting in skin metabolism. Cultivated cereal oats (Avena sativa) are rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids, as well as beta glucan, a natural humectant capable penetrating the skin to moisturize and nourish. The unique composition of nutrients in oatmeal gives it, its special ability to relieve itching and inflammation and its remarkable cleansing and skin soothing abilities when added to bathwater. Colloidal oatmeal is routinely prescribed by doctors for a variety of skin disorders including hives, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, insect bites and skin rashes.

In addition, to oatmeal, ground nut and grain meals and brans are natural substances that soothe inflammed, rough or itchy skin. Almond meals and other finely ground nut meals are full of vitamins and natural oils. Oat bran, wheat bran and rice bran add a gentle bio-active exfoliating element to bath bags. Powdered milk contains protein, calcium and vitamins. You can easily make your own therapeutic bath bags at home by combining grain meals with powdered herbs and essential oils.

First, select your ingredients from the list below and combine the meals, starches or brans in a bowl. If you are treating a specific skin condition, stir in herbal powders and essential oils next. Stir constantly as you add essential oils drop by drop. When the mixture is fully blended, fill small unbleached muslin bags with the mixture. The loose weave of the muslin fabric will enable the ingredients inside to infuse the bathwater with their healing powers.

Place a bath bag under the faucet and pour your bath. You will notice the water turning a creamy, opaque colour, with a texture like silk. While bathing, hold the bag in your hand and rub it all over your body. No soap is needed for this special bath treatment - the ingredients are natural cleansers that draw dirt and oils away from the skin. If you have not taken a bath using these therapeutic ingredients before, you will be surprised by the soft, velvety feel of your skin as it absorbs nutrients from the bag and bathwater.

INGREDIENTS FOR MAKING THERAPEUTIC BATH BAGS, BY SKIN TYPE
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For dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin:

• fine-ground oatmeal
• almond meal and other nut meals
• powdered milk
• honey
• essential oils, eg. lavender, rose geranium, chamomile, sandalwood, ylang-ylang

For normal to dry skin:

• oatmeal
• cornmeal
• almond meal
• dried citrus peel
• powdered herbs, eg. benzoin, frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood
• essential oils, eg. ylang-ylang, mandarin, sweet orange, lavender

For oily, problem skin:

• oatmeal
• cornmeal
• brans, eg. oat, wheat and rice bran
• powdered herbs, eg. goldenseal, echinacea, St. John's Wort
• essential oils, eg. eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary, clary sage

For itchy skin prone to rashes:

• rice starch
• oat starch
• colloidal oatmeal
• powdered milk
• whey powder
• aloe vera powder
• honey
• essential oils, eg. rose absolute, lavender, chamomile

OAT AND MILK SACHETS WITH YLANG-YLANG
Aromatic bath bags that soothe irrtated skin while imparting the sweet fragrance of tropical flowers. For all skin types.

• 6 tbsp ground oatmeal
• 6 tbsp powdered milk
• 30 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Combine the ingredients thoroughly and fill small bath bags. Tie bags tightly, and store in a dry place. Use as needed.

NOURISHING CITRUS ALMOND SACHETS
A delicious mixture of skin smoothing ingredients to clarify and nurture problem skin. For all skin types.

• 4 tbsp oatmeal
• 4 tbsp ground almond meal
• 1 tbsp powdered milk
• 1 tbsp dried orange peel
• 1 tbsp sandalwood powder
• 1 tbsp unpasteurized honey
• 30 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients in a bowl, stirring well. Stuff the mixture into muslin bags, tie and store. Use as needed.

HERB AND FLOWER BATH SACHETS

Fragrant herb filled sachets are a simple way to enjoy yourself, right out of your own herb or flower garden. Fresh or dried herbs and flowers provide us with true aromatherapy in its most elemental form.

While herbal sachets for bathing and inhaling may seem old fashioned, the aromatic pleasures they offer are very valuable in our stress life. Sinking into a warm tub infused with the properties of fragrant botanicals, inhaling the soft, mind clearing vapours or sniffing an herbal sachet to alleviate a pounding headache or to lull you gently to sleep. To use in the bath, gather the dried materials together, fill and tie in a bag. The bag can be used several times if air dried between uses and can be turned inside out to be filled with new herbs and retied. Close the bathroom door, dim the lights, slip into the warm, fragrant water and let all your worries fly and disappear away.

BOTANICAL TUB TEA
Delicious herbs and spices turn this bath into a healthy brew! A great warming bath to ease the discomforts of the flu season.

• 2 tbsp rose petals
• 2 tbsp rose geranium leaves
• 1 tbsp rosemary leaves
• 1 tbsp dried orange peel
• 1" slice ginger root, chopped
• 8 large clove buds
• 1 tsp powdered cinnamon

Combine the dried herbs and spices and pile onto a 12" square of light cotton cloth. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the herbs. Tie up all four corners of the cloth, making a tight bundle. Toss the sachet in the hot running bathwater and let it infuse. As you take your bath, squeeze the bundle frequently to release its properties into the water - no soap is necessary. Inhale the rising vapours as you lie back and relax. After your bath, your body will feel aromatically cleansed, and you will have renewed clarity and energy.

COUNTRY GARDEN BATH HERBS
An aromatic combination of herbs and flowers which have been used for centuries for their fragrant and healing benefits. This herb combination can be used for bath bags, drawer sachets and natural potpourris.

• 2 tbsp rose petals
• 2 tbsp lavender flowers
• 2 tbsp chamomile flowers
• 2 tbsp peppermint leaves
• 2 tbsp linden leaves
• 2 tbsp lemongrass

Gently combine the dried herbs and flowers in a bowl. To intensify the natural fragrance and create an aromatherapy effect, sprinkle a total of 30 drops of essential oils over the dried herbs, choosing from essential oils like geranium, lavender, lemongrass, palmarosa and ylang-ylang. Stir the herbs gently with a wooden spoon, and tuck the mixture into little fabric bags and tie shut.

While your bath is pouring, drop the bag in the water and squeeze it several times to release the properties of the herbs and essential oils. Hold the filled sachet like a sponge in your hand, and rub it over your skin as you bathe to give it a soft and fragrant feel.

NATURAL CONDITONERS

Conditioning your hair after shampooing is important if you have dry, brittle hair or if your hair frequently colour , bleach or chemically treat your hair. If your hair and scalp are naturally healthy and you are following the recommended steps for optimizing your hair's health with massage, hot oil treatments and scalp toners, you will enjoy usng the llight conditioning rinses described here.

Cheaper commercial shampoos are made with strong surfactant bases that cause the pH of the hair to become excessively alkaline after shampooing. This disturbs the hair cuticle, roughening the shaft so that the hair becomes brittle and dull, breaking easily and lacking a natural sheen. If you have been unable to find a commercal conditioner suited to your particular hair type, try these simple, natural alternatives.

For intensive conditioning, use hair repair complexes which include natural oils and vitamins in their formulation. The recipes below provide you with choices for natural conditioning and management of your hair.

CONDITIONING ROSEMARY VINEGAR FOR HAIR
Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water together in a glass, and stir in 10 drops of rosemary oil. Gently pour over washed hair, working in with fingertips, wait a few minutes, rinse out and towel dry. The vinegar smell vanishes as the hair dries. Your hair will be smooth and shiny with a fresh, herbal fragrance.

BEER RINSE WITH PATCHOULI
Stir 6 drops of patchouli oil into a glass of beer (flat beer is fine). Gently pour over washed hair, working with fingertips, wait a few minutes, rinse oout and towel dry. Beer gives the hair body and sheen, and the patchouli oil conditions and fragrances.

NATURAL AROMATHERAPY CONDITIONER
A basic natural conditioner with added pure essential oils to provide aromatherapeutic benefits. For all hair types.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced hair conditioner base (see previous post on recipe for hair conditioner)
• 30 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Stir the essential oils into the unfragranced hair conditioner base in a measuring cup or beaker until well blended. Pour through a funnel into a plastic squeeze bottle. To use, gently squeeze water from the hair, apply the conditioner, wait 1-3 minutes depending on the amount of conditioning needed, rinse and towel dry hair.

INTENSIVE BOTANICAL HAIR MASK
An intensive nutrient pack to provide damaged hair with body and luster. Use every 4-6 weeks for healthy, shiny hair.

• 2 oz (60ml) almond oil
• 1 oz (30ml) avocado ol
• 1/2 avocado
• juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 30 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil

Mash the avocado and blend it with the rest of the ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Dampen your hair with warm water and towel dry. Apply the mask mixture liberally to your hair, massaging into the ends, and leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off first with warm, then hot water. Shampoo lightly, dry and style naturally, with a smooth texture and beautiful shine.

NATURAL SHAMPOOS

The purpose of a natural shampoo is to thoroughly cleanse the hair and scalp without stripping them of their protective oils. Many of the cheaper commercial shampoos use harsh surfactants as a base, which can disrupt the natural growth cycle of the hair, either by over drying the scalp through too frequent use or by depositing a waxy layer that clogs the follicles and affects healthy hair growth.

A shampoo contains the same type of cleansing surfactants as do soaps, so the key in a natural product is to use cleansers which are mild and non-irritating , such as polyglucoside or sucrose cocoate, derived from glucose (sugar) and fatty acids. Oilier hair will benefit from a modified cleanser based on liquid coconut soap with humectants such as lecithin and honey. Over-washing of the hair is a common problem which leads to scalp dryness, over and under active sebum production and hair that is lack luster, brittle or malnourished.

A classic European 'dry shampoo' recipe is given which will be helpful if you travel frequently or would like to experiment with cleansing your hair without constantly exposing it to tap water, chemicals and detergents. Lavender and rosemary essential oils provide the clean, fresh herbaceous aroma in these shampoos.

CLEANSERS AND HAIRCARE

Liquid Soap Cleanser
A mild and effective cleanser for those who prefer a soap to a lotion cleanser.

• 1 cup (8oz) liquid coconut soap*
• 2 cups (16oz) distilled water or herbal infusion
• 2 tbsp (30ml) modified lecithin
• 2 tbsp (30ml) cold-pressed oil
• 2tbsp (10ml) grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II

*You may substitute any good quality, unfragranced vegetable-based soap or soap flakes for the liquid coconut soap.

Using a glass bowl placed inside a pot of boiling water, heat the ingredients gently, stirring with a spoon or whisk. Once, the soap, lecithin and oil are completely dissolved, allow to cool, and store the liquid mixture in a glass jar for future use.

Hair Shampoo

A gentle hair shampoo for everyday use. Herbal infusions add to the effectiveness of the shampoo. For all hair types.

• 4 oz (120ml) polyglucose
• 2 oz (60ml) coco betaine
• 2 oz (60ml) distilled water or herbal infusion
• 1 tsp (5ml) sucrose cocoate
• 1 tsp (5ml) isosteroyl lactylate
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II

Mix all ingredients except the coco betaine together in a glass bowl and stir wlowly with a spoon or whisk. Add the betaine slowly and continue to mix until the liquid becomes thicker. Pour through a funnel into a clean bottle and cap tightly.

Hair Conditioner

Place 8 oz (240ml) distilled or spring water or herbal infusion in a blender with 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Germaben II. Add 1 tsp alginate powder and blend for one minute. Add 30 drops of lemon juice. Then place the following ingredients in a glass bowl:

• 1 tbsp (15ml) cold-pressed oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) polyglucose
• 1 tsp (5ml) coco betaine
• 1 tsp (5ml) isosteroyl lactylate
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract or Gernaben II

Pour the ingredients from the blender gently over the ingredients in the bowl, stirring slowly. When the ingredients are well blended, pour through a funnel into a clean bottle and cap tightly.

NATURAL HERBAL SHAMPOO FOR OILY HAIR

This low-sudsing scalp and hair cleanser will remove excess oil, regulate scalp function, and leave the hair clean.

• 5 oz ( 150ml) unfragranced liquid soap
• 2 oz (60ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30ml) nettle extract
• 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
• 1 tsp (5ml) unpasteurized honey
• 1 tsp (5ml) modified lecithin
• 30 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients, stir until well blended, and pour into a bottle. Use as needed.

NATURAL AROMATHERAPY SHAMPOO

A gentle, fresh -smelling shampoo which effectively cleanses scalp and hair without disrupting their natural functions. For all hair types, especially normal to dry.

• 8 oz (240ml) unfragranced shampoo base(see the hair shampoo recipe)
• 30 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Pour the unfragranced shampoo base into a measuring cup or beaker, and stir in the essential oils. When the mixture is fully blended, pour through a funnel into a plastic squeeze bottle. Use as often as needed.

CLASSIC EUROPEAN DRY SHAMPOO

A life saver when travelling, camping or when you simply do not have enough time to wash and style your hair. White clay absorbes excess oils, dirt and sebum while essential oils refresh and cleanse. For all hair types.

• 4 tbsp white clay powder
• 1tbsp cornstarch
• 15 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Mix the dry materials in a bowl and , using a small whisk, blend in the essential oils drop by drop. Spoon the powder through a funnel into a small plastic squeeze bottle. To use the shampoo, part the hair in sections and dab small amounts of the powder onto the scalp with a cotton ball. Wait a miniute or two, then brush well with a bristle hair brush.

NATURAL HAIRCARE TIPS

• Use a basic, naturally-formulated hair shampoo and conditioning rinse
• Experiment with pure essential oils to find the best combination for your scalp and hair type
• Limit scalp and hair exposure to chemical treatments and excess heat
• Give yourself regular scalp massages using your fingers in firm circular motions to promote circulation to the scalp and to stimulate follicles
• Use customized hot oil treatments to nourish and deep condition the scalp and hair
• Use scalp tonics to invigorate the scalp and assist healthy hair growth
• Purchase an all natural bristle brush, comb and brush hair daily
• Do not share your brush or comb
• Include hair nourishing foods, vitamins and minerals in your diet
• Take extra supplement as necessary
• Avoid stress and fatigue

HOT OIL TREATMENTS

One of the best things you can do for the health of your hair and scalp is to give yourself a natural hot oil treatment every week or two. Pick a convenient time, such as a weekend or a quiet evening when you can relax and allow the treatment time to work most effectively.

Hot oil treatments work in several ways. First, the heat of the carrier oils loosens the scalp and hair follicles, allowing trapped sebum and old hairs to detach, freeing the scalp and follicles to benefit from special scalp massage. Second, through massage, the nutrients and active botanical elements in the aromatherapy oil are easily absorbed by the scalp follicles. Third, increased blood circulation to the scalp and stimulation of the follicles by massage and the oils result in accelerated healthy hair growth. Rubbing the oil through the scalp to the ends of the hair before shampooing also gives the hair a deep conditioning treatment, leaving it full and vibrant, with a natural sheen and softness.

If your hair is naturally normal to oily, select cold-pressed oils such as sweet almond, grapeseed and hazelnut as a base, adding smaller amounts of heavier oils such as avocado, wheatgerm or jojoba. If your hair and scalp tend towards dryness, and you experience itchiness or flaking, increase the amounts of the latter three oils.

Jojoba oil is used almost exclusively by many people in their hot oil blends. It is molecularly comparable to human sebum, and is considered especially helpful for hair and scalp treatment. Avocado oil, a highly penetrative oil containing a wide range of beneficial vitamins and essential fatty acids, is another oil that has specific hair and scalp regulating and nourishing abilities. Pure essential oils are a key additive to hot oil treatments. Lavender and rosemary oil are the use for their cleansing and stimulating effects.

If you have oily hair, try oils of cedarwood Atlas, lemon, juniper or pine in your blends. For a dry or sensitive scalp, sandalwood, neroli, sweet orange and ylang-ylang are excellent choices.

AROMATHERAPY HOT OIL TREATMENT
Al ighter, penetrating oil mixture for weekly use if you have normal to oily hair.

• 2 oz (60ml) sweet almond or hazelnut oil
• 1/2 oz (15ml) avocado oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) wheatgerm oil
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 15 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil

Mix the carrier oils and essential oils together in a small beaker, and pour into a glass bottle. Loosely cap the bottle and stand it in a mug half-full of just boiled water to warm the oil. Part your hair in section s and apply oil to the scalp with a dropper or fingertips. Once your scalp is saturated, genltly perform a firm, deep scalp massage using the pads of your fingertips in circular motions for 3-5 mintues. Wrap your hair in a towel and relax for 20-3o minutes. Shampoo your hair thoroughly, towel dry and style as usual.

ULTRA DEEP CONDITIONING HOT OIL TREATMENT

This rischer formulation best suits those with dry, flaky or itchy scalp and fine or brittle hair. Use every one to two weeks.

• 2 oz (60ml) avocado oil
• 1 oz (30ml) jojoba oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) wheatgerm oil
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin A
• 15 drops sandalwood Pure Essential Oil
• 15 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil
• 5 drops ylang-ylang Pure Essential Oil

Follow the directions given for the Aromatherapy Hot Oil Treatment.

Other carrier oils to try in custom hot oil treatments:

• macadamia nut
• kukui nut
• coconut oil
• peach kernel
• apricot kernel
• sesame
• sunflower
• safflower
• soybean

AROMATIC VINEGARS & TONICS

Scalp tonics and aromatic vinegars are a wonderful natural way to cleanse your scalp, banish headaches, muscle tension and clear your mind at the same time.
Many of the tonics contained herbal extracts and essences that kept the hair youthful, thick and lustrous, with a minimum of gray.

Scalp tonics are important as they prevent the clogging of hair follicles by commercial hair product deposits, resulting in healthier, stronger hair. Scalp massage using the pads of the fingertips in firm circular motions loosens the galea (the broad muscle which runs over the top of the scalp) and prepares the entire scalp to receive the nutrients. The deep, consistent movements of the massage also provide blood circulation to the scalp and stimulate hair growth.

SCALP TONIC FOR THINNING HAIR

This brisk and invigorating vitamin tonic is designed to be applied once or twice daily to activate previously clogged hair follicles. The addition of vitamins A, B, C and E is optional, but is recommended if you wish to stimulate hair growth. For all hair types.

• 2 oz (60ml) distilled or spring water
• 2 oz (60ml) unflavored vodka
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30 ml) witch hazel extract
• 1/2 tsp pantothenic acid (pro-vitamins B5)
• 1/2 tsp nicotinic acid (Vitamin B3)
• 1/2 tsp ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin A palmitate
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin E
• 1/2 tsp modified lecithin
• 1 aspirin, dissolved in 1 tsp of hot water
• 30 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 30 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Mix all ingredients in a blender and place on high speed for one minute. Pour through a funnel into a glass bottle. To use, sprinkle drops onto the scalp, or saturate a cotton ball and blot over the scalp. Massage scalp gently but firmly until the tonic is absorbed (about 5 minutes). For best results, use daily.

AROMATIC ROSE VINEGAR

This French formula is used to relieve migraines as well as to clear the head and cleanse the scalp. Try it as a cold compress next time you feel feverish.

• full blown roses, petals removed
• 1 oz (30ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 oz (30ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30ml) witch hazel extract
• 1 oz (30ml) unflavored vodka
• distilled or spring water to cover petals
• 30 drops rose geranium Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops rose absolute (optional)

Place the rose petals in a glass jar and pour the liquid ingredients (except the essential oil and absolute) over them to cover. Leave to steep for one week, then strain the liquid into a bowl, discarding the rose petals. Whisk the drops of essential oils and absolute into the liquid and pour through a funnel into a bottle.

FACIAL TONERS AND ASTRINGENTS

After cleansing face and neck, applying a refreshing liquid toner is the second step towards healthy and balanced skin. Toners can be customized to satisfy individual skin needs. Natural toners are water-based solutions and the primary purpose is to remove all final traces of cleanser, excess sebum and makeup residue, while reducing pore size and restoring a neutral pH balance to the skin.
The ideal toner supports the continuous efforts of delicate facial skin to resist environmental and other stressors, repair itself and regenerate healthy new skin cells.

With a little practice, you can customize toners to your own skin type, choosing from a wide range of natural and inexpensive plant-based ingredients.

GENTLE CHAMOMILE AND ALOE VERA TONER
A mild, cooling gel-like formula which removes redness and soothes inflamed skin. For dry and sensitive skin.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled or spring water
• 2 oz (60ml) aloe vera gel
• 2 oz (60ml) chamomile tea
• 1tsp xanthan gum powder
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract
• 1/4 tsp evening primrose oil
• 8 drops Roman chamomile Pure Essential Oil
• 2 drops rose absolute (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a blender, blend briefly on low setting, pour into a glass bottle and cap. Use as needed.

SPARKLING CITRUS FACIAL TONER

This refreshing toner includes Vitamin C and citrus oil to cleanse and enliven dull skin. For normal to oily skin.

• 4 oz (120ml) sparkling mineral water
• 2 oz (60ml) aloe vera gel
• 2 oz (50ml) witch hazel extract
• 1/2 tsp polysorbate 20
• 1/4 tsp Vitamin C powder
• 20 drops grapefruit Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops lemon Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup, stir well, pour into a glass bottle and cap. For best results, shake well before each use.

HERBAL BALANCING ASTRINGENT

A therapeutic toner containing active ingredients to detoxify, control outbreaks and encourage healthy skin turnover. For oily or problem skin.

• 4 oz (120ml) distilled or spring water
• 2 oz (60ml) aloe vera gel
• 1 oz (30ml) infiltered apple cider vinegar
• 1 oz (30ml) 90-proof unflavored vodka
• 1/2 tsp polysorbate 20
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract
• 10 drops tea tree Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops juniper berry Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops rosemary Pure Essential Oil
• 10 drops lavender Pure Essential Oil

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup, and stir well with a wire whisk until the ingredient are fully blended. Pour into a glass bottle and cap. Shake well before each use.

CLARIFYING TREATMENTS

In recent years, cosmetic scientists have discovered that important skin clarifying factors, known as as alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, are available in fruits and vegetables.

These biological substances are of great interest in skincare, as in low concentrations, they moisturize the skin and make it pliable, while in higher concentrations, they provide an exfoliating and peeling effect, clarifying and smoothing the complexion.

Most fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and chlorophyll. Enzymes are important in peeling of dead skin cells while chlorophyll is a potent cleanser, tonic and cell stimulator. Carrot and green juices are high in beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) while sprout juices contain high amounts of Vitamin B complex. All fresh juices are excellent sources of Vitamin C, and celery, beet and green juices contain anti-oxidant Vitamin E.

Recent studies have shown that the epidermis is able to absorb vitamins and nutrients from topically applied liquid juice solutions, greatly benefiting the strength, elasticity and general appearance of the skin. Facial formulas of olden days utilized these knowledge, and fresh fruits and vegetables were often included in recipes.

For best results, if you are truly seeking improvements in your skins' condition, drinking them often as well as using them in face washes. You can make this effective with a little time, pure acid alpha hydroxy acid plant juice at home and all natural sources to use in your facial treatments.


FRESH JUICES FOR FACIAL TREATMENTS BY SKIN TYPE
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For dry and dehydrated skin :

• canteloupe
• honeydew melon
• peach
• nectarine
• pear
• papaya
• apple
• watermelon
• black cherry
• mango

For normal skin :

• apple
• cucumber
• watermelon
• strawberry
• papaya
• sweet citrus, eg. mandarin
• carrot
• pineapple
• grape

For oily or problem skin :

• bitter greens eg. dandelion, watercress
• cabbage
• acidic fruits eg. grapefruit, lemon
• cranberry
• pineapple
• tomato
• celery
• spinach

For trouble and acneic skin :

• acidic citrus eg. lemon, lime
• bitter greens eg. dandelion, watercress
• super greens eg. wheatgrass, barley shoots
• radish
• ginger
• onion
• garlic

ALPHA HYDROXY ACID CLARIFYING FACIAL LIQUID

Use this juice directly to exfoliate the skin, or mix with water to make a mild clarifying toner.

• 1 large ripe grapefruit, peeled
• 1 large green apple, peeled and cored
• 1 large ripe red tomato
• 1/2 tsp grapefruit seed extract

Wash the fruits and chop them into large pieces. Place all the above fruits in the electric juicer, collecting the mixed juices in a measuring cup. Filter the juice through a filter, and add the grapefruit seed extract. Pour into a glass bottle and refrigerate for use as needed.

To use, saturate cotton balls and apply over face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips. After five minutes, splash the skin clean with warm water.

Juicy fruits have a high purified liquid content and bioenergetic factors which make them perfect for washing the skin. Many different skin problems can benefit from a regular fruit juice 'wash.' Selet juices appropriate to your skin type (refer to the chart above). Use an electric juicer to make the fresher juices for greatest effectiveness.

WATERMELON AND CUCUMBER CLARIFYING TONER

A wonderfully refreshing, cooling liquid for all skin types. The two juices combined with the slightly astringent witch hazel extract and the hint of peppermint have a cleansing, energizing effect on the skin.

• 1 small cucumber, cut in 1" sections
• 1 segment ripe watermelon
• 2 tbsp witch hazel extract
• 2 tbsp mineral water
• 1 drop peppermint Pure Essential Oil

Squeeze the juice from the ripe fruits using lemon squeezer. Strain through a sieve or cloth into a small bowl. Add the witch hazel and stir. Use cotton pads to dampen the face and neck, saturating the skin with the solution.

For an intensive clarifying treatment, cut a piece of cheesecloth the size of your face, with openings for nose and mouth. Saturate the cheesecloth with the liquid and lay it over your face for five minutes. Finish by splashing the skin clean with warm water and drying gently with a clean towel.

During hot day, this mixture will keep your skin refreshed and hydrated, especially if you add a couple of ice cubes to the toner before applying to your skin. This mixture is best used fresh, but if you want to keep it for a short time in the refrigerator, add one tablespoon of unflavoured vodka to each four ounces of juice.

SCRUBS AND EXFOLIANTS

The old fashioned term 'scrub' has been largely replaced with new concepts cosmetic science, such as bio-active peeling substances, specialized masks, vegetal extracts, glycolic and alpha-hydroxy acids and a host of other exotic products and methods promising spectacular results.

The basic concept behind all these treatments is the same - the mechanical removal of dead or damaged skin cells from the uppermost layer of the skin. Our facial skin is being endlessly renewed in this cycle, which takes approximately 28 days.

Scrubs, exfoliants and the newer cosmetic treatments provide a physical means to assist the skin in sloughing off the dead skin cells, clarifying the complexion and stimulating new cell growth. Care should always be taken, though, to ensure that the exfoliation process is not as extreme as to damage the skin during its natural cycle of regeneration.


NATURAL EXFOLIATING MATERIALS
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For normal to dry skin :

• ground oatmeal
• oat bran
• ground almonds
• cornmeal
• wheatgerm
• powdered milk
• rice bran
• strawberries
• grain flours
• ground herbs and herbal powders

For oily or problem skin :

• ground orange peel
• ground lemon peel
• sugar
• oatmeal
• lecithin granules
• fine-ground coffee
• psyllium husks
• small-textured cereal grains, eg. amaranth
• fibrous fruit, eg. pineapple

NATURAL CARRIER MATERIALS
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For normal to dry skin :

• distilled/ spring water
• mineral water
• milk
• cream
• honey
• vegetable glycerin glycerin
• floral hydrosols
• rose water
• cooled herbal teas
• cold-pressed oil eg. sweet almond oil and wheatgerm oil

For oily or problem skin :

• yogurt
• buttermilk
• apple cider vinegar
• witch hazel
• vodkha
• honey
• orange flower water
• herbal vinegar
• aloe vera gel

To exfoliate , cleanse skin thoroughly with warm water and pat dry, then proceed with :

• Mix one tbsp of your selected natural exfoliating material in a small bowl with one tbsp of natural carrier.
• Add a little unpasteurized honey to the mixture to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Apply the mixture to the skin with fingertips, working over the nose, chin, jawline, cheekbones and forehead with small , firm and circular motions. After massaging for several minutes, rinse off all traces of exfoliating material with warm water, pat skin dry and moisturize lightly.

CLASSIC ORANGE / ALMOND/ HONEY SCRUB

A fresh, home-made alternative to commercial scrub products. The orange peel contains citric acid and Vitamin C and the ground almond meal and honey are excellent for softening the skin. For all skin types.

• 1 tbsp fresh grated orange peel
• 1 tbsp ground almond meal
• 1 tbsp unpasteurized honey
• 10 drops sweet orange of Pure Essential Oil
• distilled water (as needed)

Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl and apply to damp face and neck. Use small circular motions and then rinse thoroughly. Pat dry and follow tih a ligh moisturizer. In addition to exfoliation with scrubs, an excellent regenerator is papaya, which contains papain, a potent enzyme which 'digests' dead skin cells while leaving live ones untouched. Bromelain, the enzyme in pineapple , performs a similar function. By combining these two powerful fruit enzymes, you can make a bio-active peeling mask at home.

PAPAYA AND PINEAPPLE EXFOLIATING TREATMENT

A natural fruit mixture with Vitamin C to remove dead skin cells, lighten age spots and reveal younger skin with a healthy glow. For all skin types.

• 2 tbsp mashed papaya
• 2 tbsp mashed fresh pineapple
• 1tbsp unpasteurized honey
• 1/2 tsp Vitamin C powder
• 6 drops sweet orange Pure Essential Oil

Select under ripe papaya and over ripe pineapple for the highest enzyme activity. Combine the mashed fruits and other ingredients in a small bowl. Work mixture gently over the skin for one minute, then apply a layer and leave for 3-5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and splash with cool water.