| This wonderful astringent lotion has been hailed as | | | | 1. Place all herbs in a widemouthed jar. |
| the first herbal product to ever be produced and | | | | 2. Add enough vinegar to come about an inch or two |
| marketed. Legend has it that the recipe was given | | | | above the herb mixture. |
| by the Gypsies to the Queen of Hungary and that it | | | | 3. Cover tightly and let sit in a warm spot for two to |
| kept her skin so young looking that at age 80 she | | | | three weeks. |
| got a marriage proposal! | | | | 4. Strain. Reserve the liquid. |
| The lotion combines gentle, common herbs in a | | | | 5. To each cup of herbal vinegar add 1/2 - 1 cup of |
| masterful way; it's easy and inexpensive to make, | | | | rose water or witch hazel. |
| and very versatile. The Gypsies claimed it was good | | | | 6. Add a drop or two of essential oil, if desired. |
| as a hair rinse, mouthwash, headache remedy, | | | | Rebottle. |
| aftershave, foot bath, and who knows what else! | | | | This product does not need to be refrigerated and |
| Although the original recipe has been lost through the | | | | will stay preserved indefinitely. |
| centuries, there are certain herbs that are known to | | | | Interesting Note: Hungary water first appeared |
| be part of the original recipe. | | | | outside of Hungary in 1370 when the French Charles |
| It is an excellent astringent for the face (both rose | | | | V le Sage, who was famous for his love of |
| water and witch hazel are light astringent tonics) and | | | | fragrances, received some. Hungary water was |
| a great rinse for dark hair. You can make it for the | | | | known across Europe for many centuries and until |
| cost of a few herbs and a bottle of vinegar. | | | | eau de Cologne appeared in the 18th century, it was |
| 6 parts lemon balm | | | | the number one fragrance and remedy applied in the |
| 4 parts chamomile | | | | world. Similar to other herb and flower-based |
| 1 part rosemary | | | | products, Hungary water was not only a fragrance, |
| 3 parts calendula | | | | but also a valuable remedy for many ailments. |
| 4 parts roses | | | | Herbs have powerful effects on the body and can |
| 1 part lemon peel | | | | cause serious harm if used incorrectly. |
| 1 part sage | | | | You should consult your health care provider before |
| 3 parts comfrey leafvinegar to cover (apple cider or | | | | using herbs on yourself or on anyone else. |
| wine vinegar) rose or witch hazel extractessential oil | | | | Please contact The Spa Team for more information |
| of lavender or rose (optional) | | | | at email: spas@spasincanada. |