A while ago I read that the average woman uses approximately 168 chemicals every single day on her body. Think about the cosmetics, shampoo, personal hygiene products that we all use and I doubt that that number includes the chemicals from around the home that we unwittingly come into contact with.
Now of course I am sure that some of you will say, "but they are all approved chemicals and all in safe doses." And that may be true (and that from me is a very unconvinced "may be") however, the general consensus from experts seems to be that there is very little regulation on this. After all, a chemical is tested to ensure that it is safe to use in that product, not if it is safe when used in conjunction with 167 other chemicals!
As it so happens I have very strange and highly-strung skin. I can wear almost any makeup and experience no side effects whatsoever. But almost every cleaning product or cream that I have ever used causes no end in problems.
I am also, I have to confess, horribly lazy and have never been great at slathering on creams and potions before bedtime. What I have always loved though are herbal and natural remedies.
I don't think that there are many foods or herbs that I have not yet tried on my face or hair. And you might be surprised at some of the most beneficial ones...but that is a post for another day!
You can use a combination of any of the herbs in this recipe, though I always use marigold and cleavers as I find them so beneficial.
Cleavers is fantastic for many ailments; taken as a tea it is good for the hair and teeth and it helps clear the complexion from spots and acne.
Marigold is a well known remedy for clear, non-greasy skin.
Lady's Mantle is wonderful as a general tonic for women: taken internally it balances hormones and regulates the menstrual cycle. Externally it is soothing for sensitive and dry skin.
Chamomile: apart from being an effective sleep tonic it has many other benefits including being anti-bacterial and it is soothing for irritated skin.
Ashwagandha is an ancient herb and is anti-inflammatory, stops redness, helps relax the skin and is good for anti-aging.
Mallow: the whole plant is medicinal and of course is the original ingredient in marshmallow sweets! Externally, as a remedy for skin inflammation, sores and redness.
Other ingredients are witch hazel: Astringent and fantastic for the skin, it also will help preserve the tonic. Apple cider vinegar cleanses and tones, and tea tree is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and reduces redness and swelling.
Natural Herbal Facial Cleanser
Ingredients:
1tbs cleavers
1tbs lady's mantle
1tbs marigold
1/2tbs chamomile
1tsp ashwgandha (optional)
1tsp mallow (optional)
850ml cold water
30ml organic apple cider vinegar
60ml witch hazel
few drops of tea tree oil
Method:
Combine all the dried herbs into a saucepan along with the water. Simmer for 15 minutes and then leave to steep until completely cooled.
Once cool, pour the liquid through a sieve and add the witch hazel, vinegar and tea tree oil. Pour into a sterilised bottle.
Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight and it will keep well for up to a month.
Note: I normally purchase most herbs from Baldwins Herbal store or Wholefoods Online, however I have linked the above herbs to Amazon for convenience.
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