Too many cucumbers . . .

This refreshing toner has a cool scent that will lift your spirits. Cucumber juice is a natural astringent that also is cleansing and refreshing. It can be used all over your body and is wonderfully soothing for a sunburn. Makes 8 ounces

• 1 medium cucumber, chopped
• 1⁄4 cup witch hazel extract
• 1⁄4 cup distilled water
• 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel

1. In a blender, process cucumber into a smooth puree and strain.
2. Mix cucumber juice with remaining ingredients and stir well. Pour into clean spray bottle.
3. To use: Spray onto clean skin after bathing or whenever your skin could use a boost. It can spoil easily, so store in refrigerator between uses.

Janice Cox is the author of Natural Beauty from the Garden

Make your own rosewater . . .

It has been cool this Spring but the roses are blooming. Now is the time to think about capturing some of their wonderful scents for your own rosewater.

One way is to distill the petals. But there is an easier way to make this wonderful facial toner. Remember to only gather plant materials from chemical-free gardens and away from the roads where the plants are exposed to exhaust fumes.

Here is a quick and easy recipe by Janice Cox from her book Natural Beauty at Home.

Rosewater

1. 1 cup firmly packed rose petals, washed
2. 2 cups boiling water

• Place rose petals in a ceramic or glass bowl.
  
• Use only fresh petals (no leaves or stems).
• Pour boiling water over petals, and allow petals to steep until cool.
• Strain off the petals
• Pour the scented liquid into a clean bottle.
  

This recipe was published on The Herb Companion, a wonderful, free newsletter.