Herbs for Radiance - and how to use them

The traditional Queen of Hungary's Water is a blend of herbs that is said to have been created in the 14th century for Queen Elizabeth of Hungary. It's a herbal remedy that is primarily used as a facial toner or general skin tonic.

Here's a list of the commonly used herbs in the traditional Queen of Hungary's blend:

1. Rosemary: Known for its astringent and antiseptic properties.

2. Lemon Balm: Helps to soothe and calm the skin.

3. Sage: Acts as an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Chamomile: Soothes and calms irritated skin.

5. Comfrey: Promotes skin healing and regeneration.

6. Calendula: Known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

7. Mint: Refreshes and rejuvenates the skin.

8. Lavender: Balances and soothes the skin.

9. Rose Petals: Hydrates and tones the skin.

10. Orange Peel: Adds a refreshing citrus scent and brightens the skin.

Some of my other favorite herbs for skin care are:

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Benefits for Skin:

1. Anti-Inflammatory: Yarrow reduces inflammation, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne.

2. Astringent: Helps to tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and promoting a smoother complexion.

3. Antiseptic: Its antiseptic properties help to cleanse the skin and prevent infections, making it useful for treating minor cuts and wounds.

4. Healing: Promotes wound healing and reduces scarring by stimulating skin regeneration.

5. Antioxidant: Protects the skin from free radical damage, which can slow down the aging process and improve overall skin health.

Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum)

Benefits for Skin:

1. Anti-Aging: Known for its anti-aging properties, Helichrysum helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Skin Regeneration: Promotes the regeneration of skin cells, which helps in healing scars, stretch marks, and other skin imperfections.

3. Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and redness, making it suitable for sensitive and irritated skin.

4. Antimicrobial: Helps to cleanse the skin and prevent bacterial infections, useful for acne-prone skin.

5. Moisturizing: Provides deep hydration, leaving the skin soft and supple.

Elder Flowers (Sambucus nigra)

Benefits for Skin:

1. Antioxidant: Rich in flavonoids, elder flowers protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which can help prevent premature aging.

2. Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin, beneficial for conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

3. Astringent: Tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of pores, giving the skin a more refined and smooth texture.

4. Detoxifying: Helps to detoxify the skin, removing impurities and promoting a clearer complexion.

5. Brightening: Elder flowers can help to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion, reducing the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation.

Each of these herbs brings a unique set of benefits to skin care, making them valuable ingredients in herbal remedies and natural skin care formulations.

These herbs are typically infused in alcohol or vinegar, and sometimes combined with rosewater or other floral waters, to create the final tonic. You can also infuse them in an oil or use them for a facial steam - directions follow below.

Here's a step-by-step guide for a DIY facial steam at home:

#DIY Facial Steam at Home

Materials Needed:

- A large bowl

- Boiling water

- Towel

- Herbs (optional): Yarrow, Helichrysum, Elder Flowers, or any other preferred herbs

- Essential oils (optional): Lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, etc.

- Timer

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Space:

- Find a comfortable place to sit where you can safely lean over the bowl.

- Make sure the area is clear of any distractions or hazards.

2. Boil Water:

- Boil about 4 cups of water. Once boiled, carefully pour the water into the large bowl.

3. Add Herbs or Essential Oils (Optional):

- Add a handful of dried herbs like Yarrow, Helichrysum, or Elder Flowers to the hot water. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of essential oils.

4. Safety First:

- Allow the water to cool slightly before starting. The steam should be warm, not scalding hot, to avoid burns.

- Ensure the bowl is placed on a stable surface to prevent spills.

5. Position Yourself:

- Drape a towel over your head and shoulders, creating a tent to trap the steam.

- Lean over the bowl, keeping your face at least 12 inches away from the water. Close your eyes and relax.

6. Steam Your Face:

- Steam your face for about 5-10 minutes. If at any point the steam feels too hot or uncomfortable, move your face further away or take a break.

- Breathe deeply and enjoy the soothing effects of the steam.

7. **After the Steam:**

- Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

- Follow up with your usual skincare routine, such as applying a toner, serum, and moisturizer. Your pores will be more receptive to skincare products after steaming.

8. Clean Up:

- Dispose of the water safely once it has cooled down.

- Clean the bowl and towel for future use.

Safety Tips:

- Never lean too close to the bowl as the steam can cause burns.

- Keep the steam session to a maximum of 10 minutes to avoid skin irritation.

- If you have sensitive skin or respiratory issues, consult a healthcare provider before trying facial steaming.

- Ensure the area around you is free of obstacles to avoid accidents.

Note: Facial steaming can be done once a week as part of a skincare routine. If you have any skin conditions, such as rosacea or severe acne, consult with a dermatologist before incorporating steaming into your regimen.

Enjoy your relaxing and rejuvenating facial steam!