I read a lot about how Vitex, when used internally, balances female hormones; however, I also read here and there that when used topically, it can help with insect bites as well as repel insects from biting you. Here, it explains how Vitex seeds can be made into an essential oil and used to in massage oils as well as used to ward off insect bites. Wild Herbs of Crete explains the benefits of the oil and also discusses benefits in terms of topical massage. Since its known in the US as an herb to take internally, in an effort to balance female hormones, it makes sense that using the oil topically would have nice outcomes.
Wild Herbs of Crete indicates massage oil containing Vitex is useful for skin inflamed by hormones, as well as beneficial as a massage oil for breast tissue. I liked reading that it, "reconnects a woman with her inherent harmony within and balances sexual desire between a man and a woman How nice! We have it growing in our landscape; it is deer resistant and very beautiful.
Calendula Calendula officinalis. Calendula is gentle enough for a baby, yet strong enough for all sorts of skin uses. On any given day, I have Calendula petals and flowers solar infusing into oil in the kitchen's most sunny window. Calendula is a very nice herb for sensitive or acne prone skin, as well. Calendula helps heal tissue and reduce inflammation. Calendula has so many uses, both internally and topically that it demands an entire book in its honor.
In fact, one of my favorite Herbalists and Aromatherapists, Mindy Green, has written a book dedicated to Calendula, simply titled: "Calendula". As she states on the cover of her book, "This soothing first-aid remedy is unsurpassed for skin problems from diaper rash to varicose veins.
Rose Rosa. Who doesn't adore rose petals freshly picked from the garden? So delicate, fragrant, soft Rosehip seed oil is yet another topical treat for your face.
Rosehip seed oil is made from the wild roses naturally growing throughout Chili. It has long been a beauty secret for the people of Chili and it's popularity is growing in other countries. Rosehip Seed Oil is very high in essential fatty acids, especially linoleic acid.
Rosehip seed oil has been used by women for stretch marks and it has also been used to assist with sun damaged skin and scars.
I think this oil is best for dry mature skin, since Rosehip seed oil is very high in essential fatty acids. It seems best for individuals who no longer struggle with bouts of acne or breakouts. I love using this oil on my hands and under my eyes. It is silky and smooth. It absorbs very quickly and does not leave an oily feeling on the skin. Skin is left soft and satin smooth. You can tell you are helping it be the best it can be after using this very special oil.
I especially enjoy this oil after using one of hand blended sugar scrubs Happy skin is good :. As you may have guessed, there are entirely too many herbs growing native and naturalized all around us that have topical benefits. I think I could write a book on just this one subject matter.
However, I'm so happy to share just a few herbs that I use daily for topical applications. I hope you are enjoying your beautiful day and as always I wish you wonderful green luck!
Happy Spring to all! It's been an amazing spring here in the Texas Hill Country with about three freezes since mid March! Our poor tomatoes, jalapenos and basil are stunted -left not knowing what to do. As they sprouted new leaves Not just once, but three times Poor herblings.
California Poppy has been thriving all winter and still blooming today. Our little greenhouse at dusk Until next time, HCH.
Here, you can see the results of the steam distillation process: the darker golden line above the water is the essential oil and since oil and water don't mix The water portion below the essential oil is the beautiful hydrosol. Hydrosols also possess the fragrance of the plant. Although the fragrance is not as strong as the essential oil, it is still a delicate representation of the essence of the plant.
Hydrosols are not only deliciously fragrant, they carry many of the benefits of the plant. They carry beneficial plant acids and are anti-inflammatory. Hydrosols help heal, tone, restore pH balance and hydrate skin.
Hydrosols are also wonderful because of their antioxidant properties. Plant acids can have wonderful impacts on the skin. Rose hydrosol, for example, has a long history for being known to help hydrate skin and reduce fine lines on the face.
Labels: essential oils , facial toner , hydrosol , Lotion Making , Skin Care , steam distillation. Figs can be eaten fresh from the tree as Briar and I enjoyed this summer and fall and can be made into meals, jellies and jams or dried. Figs are a great source of fiber and have superb nutritional value. They contain antioxidants, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K.
Eating a few figs a day helps stimulate the digestive system and helps us stay healthy. I hope next time you see figs in the grocery store or in a farmers market you don't pass them up - they are so good!
I also encourage you to grow your own! They are easy and fun to have in the garden. Older Posts Home. Subscribe to: Posts Atom. Hibiscus From one of the last clippings my grandfather made. Search This Blog. Most Viewed Posts. The blossoms are edible and hav Lemon Mint, or Monarda citriodora , is a wonderful addition to your garden. It invites and welcomes beautiful butterflies and honey bees Back in May of last year, I posted an entry sharing the benefits of our beloved Gotu Kola.
I am so drawn to this herb and have been nurturi Just got back from Abiquiu, New Mexico and settling into my typical routine. I attended the Traditions in Western Herbalism conference In honor of the blooming herbs here in the Hill Country garden I dedicate this post to the topical uses of Borage, Yarrow, Vitex, Calendula Hill Country Herbalist lovingly makes vibrant, nutrient rich, nourishing lotions, serums, balms, salves, facial scrubs and elixers for your face and body.
All products are handmade using organic and pesticide free herbs and oils. It's simple! Email me for a price list at hillcountryherbalist gmail.
Unleash your skin's smile! Meet Basil Basil loves being in the garden, too! Total Pageviews. My Blog List. Tales of a Kitchen Herbwife. Combing the hedgerows 4 hours ago. The Medicine Woman's Roots. Blog - Henriette's blog. Kalender Herbs, Weeds, and Other Wild Things. Yarrow Achillea millefolium by student contributor Eli Young 5 years ago. We have cooking events that highlight the herb of the year and activities for the children. Throughout the year we hold information seminars at various locations in and around Bexar and surrounding counties.
We focus on how to grow herbs and the importance of the nutritional value herbs add to your diet. We work with Texas AgriLife presenting cooking demonstrations and give free recipes to all who attend.
In local herb growers gathered with the Texas Department of Agriculture to host an event to showcase herbs. The event was held at Aggie Park and was a tremendous success. As the Herb Market concept grew, we decided to incorporate and we began looking for another location that could hold the increase in patrons.
In we relocated to the Historic Pearl Brewery and in we added the Basil Fest to our events. Our focus has shifted over the years to be more than a one-day event. We are working to achieve our goal of sharing with the public the wonderful world of herbs - how to grow them, how to cook with them, how to use them outside of the kitchen and how to incorporate them into a healthy lifestyle.
As interest continues to increase in herbs, growing and purchasing local products and healthy eating, the San Antonio Herb Market Association will continue to be here supporting our community. I did not feel rushed and all my questions were answered.
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