The summer heat keeps on coming. And since I’m always looking for ways to cool down, I decided to make this Mint Toner with witch hazel, fresh mint leaves, and peppermint essential oil. This toner is a great way to cool and hydrate hot, sun-irritated skin. I use it after my bath or shower, and this time of year, it’s easy to find fresh mint and witch hazel at grocery stores. But if you can’t find it, I also buy my organic herbs and other ingredients from Mountain Rose Herbs.
For those of you new to this series, Sarah Munro, the heroine in ONE DARK WISH, the second book in the Deadly Force series, is an 18th century historian who inherited a collection of colonial-era herbal and homeopathic remedies. And in this blog space, I’ve been sharing her recipes with you all. I’m adding this recipe to this collection because some studies have shown that fresh mint can soothe redness (it has anti-inflammatory properties) and can refresh the skin. Witch Hazel, also an anti-inflammatory, can reduce puffiness and can ease the itch of bug bites. It’s also an astringent and can help tighten pores.
Note: I am not an affiliate of Mountain Rose Herbs. I just love their website and buy most of my herbs and other special ingredients from them.
Ingredients:
- 3 Tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1 cup witch hazel
- 2 drops essential peppermint oil
Directions for Mint Toner
- Sterilize a 2-quart glass mason jar with a tight-fitting, 2-part lid.
- In the jar, stir together the mint leaves and witch hazel. Shake and place the jar in a cool, dry cabinet and allow it to sit for a week.
- After a week, strain the leaves and witch hazel into a clean, sterilized mason jar and throw out the leaves. Stir in 2 drops of peppermint essential oil. Mix well.
- To use: Use a spray bottle of a cotton square to apply the toner to your skin.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark cabinet for up to 1 month.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING, AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:
I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).
It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.
- If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.
- If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.
Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.
Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.
Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.
Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.
I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!
