Author Stasie McArthur explains how to build your own personal apothecary. There is a supply list and more than 100 simple, preservative-free recipes, along with a helpful tip for each one. Included are moisturizers and toners for face and hand care, washes and scrubs for skin and body, shampoos and conditioners, and healing compounds for congestion and earaches. These handmade products make great gifts for family and friends — and can be customized with favorite scents and textures.
Author Stasie McArthur explains how to build your own personal apothecary. There is a supply list and more than 100 simple, preservative-free recipes, along with a helpful tip for each one. Included are moisturizers and toners for face and hand care, washes and scrubs for skin and body, shampoos and conditioners, and healing compounds for congestion and earaches. These handmade products make great gifts for family and friends — and can be customized with favorite scents and textures.
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Overview
Author Stasie McArthur explains how to build your own personal apothecary. There is a supply list and more than 100 simple, preservative-free recipes, along with a helpful tip for each one. Included are moisturizers and toners for face and hand care, washes and scrubs for skin and body, shampoos and conditioners, and healing compounds for congestion and earaches. These handmade products make great gifts for family and friends — and can be customized with favorite scents and textures.
Product Details
| ISBN-13: | 9780486837031 |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Dover Publications |
| Publication date: | 01/16/2019 |
| Sold by: | Barnes & Noble |
| Format: | eBook |
| Pages: | 128 |
| File size: | 17 MB |
| Note: | This product may take a few minutes to download. |
About the Author
Read an Excerpt
CHAPTER 1
Stocking Your Pantry
Many of the ingredients used in this book can be found in your pantry. That is the whole idea behind this book. I really would like you to see how easy it is to be self-sufficient and to re-create your favorite bath and spa products at home.
If you do not have a specific ingredient on hand, you can easily locate these items at your local health food store, supermarket, or online. As with cooking and baking, you should always use the best ingredients that you can find and afford to use in your homemade bath and spa products. Whenever possible, aim to purchase organic ingredients or supplies in the purest form available. Once your pantry is stocked, you can use it to build your apothecary.
Once you have stocked or raided your pantry, it is possible to save money by making your own products long term. However, this is all relative and depends on how much you have been spending to date on beauty and spa products. Anything looks like a savings if you are currently spending a hundred dollars on one ounce of eye cream. Believe me, I am not judging. Been there, done that. Many of these recipes can be used to make fun and cost-effective gifts for friends and family members. They are also great to make with kids, although they require supervision.
Here are some suggested items that you should have on hand to make the recipes in this book and build your apothecary:
Activated Charcoal attracts dirt and toxins and draws them out. Activated charcoal helps to balance out oily skin. Take care near fabrics and clothing and other porous materials.
Aloe Vera Gel moisturizes without feeling greasy, helps heal wounds, and is great for sunburn. Aloe is rich in Vitamin C and is antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory.
Apple Cider Vinegar or ACV (raw, with "the mother") helps to balance the skin's pH and is also antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral. (The mother is beneficial bacteria. ACV with mother is unrefined, unpasteurized, and unfiltered. It needs to be diluted so that you do not burn your skin.)
Baking Soda (aluminum free) helps to balance the skin's pH and is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It is also a natural deodorizer.
Beeswax (organic) is rich in Vitamin A and helps protect skin by sealing in moisture. Beeswax is vegetarian but because it is an animal product, vegans might not want to use it. If you are looking for a vegan alternative to beeswax, try candelilla wax. It is denser than beeswax, so if you substitute candelilla wax in these recipes please use half of what the recipe calls for.
Bentonite Clay helps to unclog pores and draw out toxins. Bentonite clay helps to control the overproduction of sebum and is a natural exfoliator.
Brown Sugar (or dark brown sugar) is softer than other sugars and smells great. Brown sugar is a natural source of glycolic acid and alpha hydroxy acid. It is an excellent exfoliator and encourages cell turnover, revealing glowing skin.
Carrier Oils "carry" oils onto your skin. Some of my favorite oils are avocado, jojoba, neem, olive, and sweet almond. Jojoba oil is a good oil to start with as you experiment and figure out what is best for your skin.
Argan Oil helps hair look and feel softer and shinier. It also helps to reduce frizz. Do not use if you are allergic to tree nuts.
Avocado Oil is great as an all-over moisturizer and contains Vitamins A, D, and E.
Grapeseed Oil slows down the aging process and prevents acne. It is light and moisturizing.
Jojoba Oil comes from a nut. It is moisturizing and most like our skin's sebum. It is lightweight and absorbs quickly. It is an excellent carrier oil.
Neem Oil is antiseptic and antifungal. It helps to relieve dry skin, smooths skin, and fights wrinkles. It is high in fatty acids and Vitamin E and helps treat eczema and dermatitis. I find that this is the least pleasant smelling of the oils I use, and so I recommend using essential oils to cover up the bitter smell. The benefits of using this oil are worth it, so try to deal with it!
Organic Olive Oil is readily available in most kitchens. It is a heavier oil than the others mentioned, so it takes longer to be absorbed by the skin.
Sweet Almond Oil is a mild and hypoallergenic oil. This oil is packed with vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin E, which can help your skin look soft and feel smooth, and Vitamin A, which can help reduce acne.
Castile Soap is a powerhouse because it is so versatile. It can be used in everything from a face wash to a nontoxic toilet bowl cleaner. I can't get enough of this stuff! You can make your own (see page 120) or use store-bought or unscented/baby castile soap. It is natural and toxin free and safe for everyone, including babies and pets. Remember to read your labels to make sure the one you choose uses only vegetable-based ingredients.
Cinnamon is antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial; yes, you know it from your spice rack!
Cocoa Butter (organic) is naturally healing to dry and sensitive skin.
Coconut Oil (organic extra virgin) is an excellent moisturizer, as well as antibacterial and antifungal. It is one of the most natural products available and is another powerhouse because it is so versatile.
Coffee dehydrates, reduces water retention, and constricts blood vessels. It is an excellent exfoliator and helps to minimize the appearance of cellulite.
Dried Flowers or Herbs can be used as is for bath soaks or can be used to infuse oils for use in bath and spa products. Some of my favorites are calendula, chamomile, lavender, and mint.
Epsom Salt is a good source of magnesium. It reduces muscle soreness and relieves tension.
Essential Oil is the oil extracted from a plant. Essential oil is highly concentrated and captures the plant's flavor and scent, or its "essence." Some of my favorite essential oils, used throughout this book, are peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, orange, grapefruit, and bergamot. (See more about DIY diffusers using essential oils on page 122.)
Flavor Oils or Extracts shouldn't be confused with the extracts you find in your market's baking section. These will not mix well with the oils in your recipes. Flavor oils or extracts usually contain real essential oils depending upon the flavor and the brand. The oils are not for taste but they help to replicate a taste through your sense of smell. Look for "lip-safe" oils.
Infused Oil (homemade) is a combination of an oil of your choice with dried flowers or herbs. Combine and store in a cool, dry, dark place for roughly a month. Turn upside down a few times every day before returning to the storage spot. When you are ready to use the infused oil, strain out the flowers or herbs, reserving the oil. (See page 121.)
Mineral Dead Sea Salt purifies and exfoliates your skin, and helps to remove toxins and treat psoriasis. Dead Sea salt is full of minerals that are good for our health. The top four minerals in Dead Sea salt are magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium. Good for all skin types.
Organic Witch Hazel is a natural astringent, anti-inflammatory, and has calming properties.
Pink Himalayan Sea Salt relaxes muscles, balances pH, draws out toxins, and deep cleans the skin.
Raw Honey or Manuka Honey is an antibacterial and an antifungal; it has healing benefits. Do not store near a heat source or cook with raw honey, as the heat will destroy all its wonderful properties.
Rose Hip Seed Oil (organic) is full of antioxidants. This ingredient is used to brighten and firm skin, as well as reduce fine lines and scars.
Shea Butter (organic or unrefined) is nourishing and moisturizing for skin, and an anti-inflammatory.
Sugar in the Raw or Turbinado Sugar is a natural humectant and a natural source of alpha hydroxy acid. It is very coarse, so it is a good choice for an exfoliant, but avoid using it on the face.
Turmeric helps to reduce acne and scars. It contains antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory. When applied to skin, turmeric can stain the skin yellow. Take care near fabrics and clothing and other porous materials.
Vegetable Glycerin (organic) is a clear, odorless liquid, derived from plant sources. It is water soluble, safe, and nontoxic. It is very versatile, especially for making your own natural spa and beauty products.
Vitamin C Oil is an antioxidant and has anti-aging benefits.
Vitamin C Powder helps to brighten the complexion and even out skin tone.
Vitamin E Softgels help dry skin and skin conditions. Vitamin E helps to accelerate healing, fade scars, and soften skin. To use softgels in these recipes, simply pierce the capsule and add the contents.
Witch Hazel is an extract from the North American witch hazel tree. It is antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, and an astringent. An astringent helps to remove excess oil, as well as tighten your skin.
Basic Supplies Needed
* Assortment of glasses, cups, and jars
* Assortment of bottles with spray, pump, and roller lids
* Bamboo skewers
* Cheesecloth
* Colander
* Double boiler
* Grater
* Heat-proof containers and jars
* Heavy-bottom pot or pan
* Knives
* Labels and stickers
* Mixing bowls
* Set of metal funnels
* Set of metal measuring cups
* Set of metal measuring spoons
* Small glass bowl
* Spoons
* Storage containers
All the recipes in this book can be made with tools that are probably already in your kitchen. You might want to get an extra set of a few of these items to use specifically for these recipes.
It is important to have proper measuring tools for preparation of these recipes. Bamboo skewers are excellent for mixing and stirring. If you do not have a double boiler, you can make one by using a pot and a glass bowl. Metal measuring spoons and cups are recommended because they are easier to clean and keep sanitary.
METRIC CONVERSIONS
1 tsp. = 5 ml 1 tbsp. = 15 ml 1/4 cup = 60 ml 1/2 cup = 120 ml 1 cup = 240 ml
Face and Hand Care
The saying goes "put your best foot forward," but I think it should be put your best face forward. When it comes to meeting people and forming first impressions, let's be honest: no one is looking at your shoes. Your face is usually the first thing that gets noticed about you. If you have issues like acne, dryness, or oily or sensitive skin, it is very easy to make small changes to adopt a simpler, natural beauty routine.
Determining the best ingredients for your unique skin type does require a little trial and error. You may go through an adjustment period as your skin gets used to a new routine. It can take your skin time to rebalance and learn how much oil to produce, since it is no longer being subjected to harsh chemicals. You might see a small period of over-production of oil and some dryness. Stick with it and give each new routine a good two- to three-week trial before you decide it's not working. You have come this far; don't give up!
As for your hands, developing a hand routine doesn't have to be a time-consuming affair. You can use many of the products on the following pages for your face and for your hands. It is important to moisturize hands and cuticles every day.
Exfoliating Lip Scrub
Lips have no way to hold on to moisture. This lip scrub helps to soften and exfoliate your lips while keeping them nourished and hydrated. Exfoliating is important because it improves the texture of your lips. Your lip gloss or other lip products will apply more smoothly and stay on longer. The best time to use this scrub is before date night so that you have soft kissable lips. Hubba-hubba.
Ingredients
* 1 tbsp. raw honey
* 1 tbsp. raw sugar or granulated sugar
* 1/2 tbsp. coconut oil
* 3 drops of lemon juice
Approximately 4 uses
Directions
In a small bowl mix honey, sugar, coconut oil, and lemon juice until combined. Store in a small container. Gently scoop out a tiny amount and rub into your lips in a circular motion.
Tip: If your lips are consistently flaky, try drinking more water each day. Flaky lips could be a sign that you're dehydrated.
Natural Lip Balm
What we put on our body is just as important as what we put into our body. This is an excellent replacement for my favorite store-bought lip balm (I loved everything about it except the price).
Ingredients
* 1 tbsp. organic shea butter
* 1 tbsp. sweet almond oil
* 1/2 tbsp. natural beeswax pellets
* 1/2 tsp. raw or manuka honey
* 1 tsp. organic pineapple extract for flavoring (optional)
Approximately 30 uses
Directions
Fill a pan with about 2 inches of water. Bring water to a boil and reduce heat to medium. Mix shea butter, sweet almond oil, beeswax pellets, and honey in a small glass jar. Gently place glass jar into pan of water. Stir gently; allow ingredients to melt and combine. Remove from heat and add in flavoring, if using. Stir again and gently pour into large lip balm pots. (Large squat containers with screw-on lids work well.) If you find that your lip balm's consistency is too loose or it is separating, you can melt it down and add in a little more beeswax.
Tip: To tint your lip balm, add 3 to 4 drops of natural food coloring while the mixture is still warm. If pineapple is not your favorite flavor, adapt the recipe by using a different organic flavored extract.
Moisturizing Facial Oil
If you are used to commercial products or usually use lotions and creams for moisturizing, it may take a few times to get used to facial oil because oil takes a little longer to be absorbed into the skin. Jojoba oil is healing and moisturizing for all skin types.
Ingredients
* 2 tbsp. jojoba oil
* 1 tsp. avocado oil
* 1 tsp. infused calendula oil
4 to 6 uses
Directions
Place a small funnel in the mouth of your bottle to add in the jojoba, avocado, and calendula oils. Put a roller top on the bottle and shake gently. Apply to a clean dry face. After you apply the oil to your face, you can massage slowly in a circular motion to help with the absorption. Use as part of your morning or nighttime beauty routine.
Tip: The most beneficial time to moisturize is after showering, washing your face, or exfoliating.
Exfoliating Clay Face Wash
If exfoliating is not currently part of your beauty routine, it should be. Exfoliating will help you achieve a radiant glow by gently clearing away dead skin cells. This recipe includes bentonite clay, which is great for detoxifying skin and drawing out impurities. Tea tree and eucalyptus are great for your skin because both are anti-inflammatory.
Ingredients
* 1/4 cup vegetable glycerin
* 1 1/2 tbsp. bentonite clay
* 1 tsp. raw or manuka honey
* 1/2 tsp. raw apple cider vinegar
* 1 drop of tea tree essential oil (natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory)
* 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil (antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory) 8 to 10 uses
Directions
Combine vegetable glycerin, bentonite clay, honey, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils in a small glass jar. Stir slowly to combine. To use, scoop out a small amount and gently massage into skin in a circular motion. Cover the jar with a lid between uses. Use weekly to exfoliate. Do not use more than once a week as it can disrupt your skin's outermost layer.
Tip: Products that contain bentonite clay may cause some breakouts. With continued use, these should subside.
Sensitive Skin Cleanser
Even though there are several ingredients, I promise that this recipe comes together quickly. Calendula is often used for first aid for cuts, scrapes, and bug bites. The calendula oil is acting as a base for this cleanser, so your skin will benefit from all these properties. Glycerin is not irritating to sensitive skin.
Ingredients
* 1 1/2 tsp. calendula oil (homemade infused oil)
* 1 1/2 tsp. olive oil
* 1 tsp. jojoba oil
* 1 tsp. cocoa butter
* 1 tsp. glycerin
* 2 drops of your favorite essential oil 5 to 7 uses
Directions
Mix calendula oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, and cocoa butter in a glass bowl. Gently place the bowl on top of a pot of boiling water to create a faux double boiler. Leave a 2-inch space between the boiling water and the bottom of the bowl. Stir gently to combine ingredients. Remove from heat. Wipe off water from the bottom of the bowl so you don't contaminate the face wash. Let cool slightly; add in glycerin and essential oils as the mixture starts to firm up. Stir again before storing in a glass container with a lid. Massage daily into the skin in a circular motion, rinse well with warm water, and pat dry.
Tip: After using this skin cleanser, finish up your beauty routine with toner and moisturizer.
(Continues…)
Excerpted from "Spa Apothecary"
by .
Copyright © 2019 Stasie McArthur.
Excerpted by permission of Dover Publications, Inc..
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTIONSTOCKING YOUR PANTRY
FACE AND HAND CARE
SKIN AND BODY CARE
HAIR CARE
HEALING
BONUS RECIPES & MORE