As our previous natural deodorant post pointed out, conventional body care products are laden with gross, unnatural ingredients. I want to harness the healing power of plants and infusing them in a good quality carrier oil is a great way to do so.
I learned how to make herbal body oils from Kami McBride through her online course. I learned the following technique: dried plant material is first powdered and a very small amount of high-proof alcohol is mixed in and allowed to sit for about twelve hours to activate the constituents; this is then combined with oil and allowed to slow-infuse over a moon cycle, shaking each day and then the plant material is strained out, leaving a wonderfully aromatic and benefit-rich body oil.
I use the lavender oil as a face wash, massaging it into skin and then gently wiping off with a very warm cloth. Right now I’m using the rose hip oil during the day and the calendula oil at night. I believe all of these oils have really improved my skin and reduced breakouts. I find the oil moisturizes the skin best when applied to damp skin.
These oils also make excellent massage oils. I love to rub it into my feet and have found this very relaxing for my children too.
Local foraged plants are used whenever possible! Here are some of the benefits of the plants used:
– Calendula is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial and is great for helping heal minor cuts, bruises and scratches. Some say it can reduce hair growth and is said to be good for acne
– Roses are high in antioxidants and are said to help reduce skin redness and help reduce the signs of aging
– Lavender is also anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial and its beautiful scent can boost mood and aid in relaxation and help with insomnia. Lavender oil is great for healing skin wounds and is excellent in helping relieve sunburns.
Ruckle Heritage Farm body oils are available at our farm stand for $18 per 50 ml bottle, or buy two for $30. If you don’t live locally, please email abeyrae@gmail.com to inquire about purchasing.
Enjoy!
Abey
