Cleansers and Scrubs

Galen's Cold Cream

The original cold cream recipe is believed to have been invented by the Greek doctor and philosopher Galen in the second century A.D.

  • 1 ounce beeswax
  • 1/3 cup light olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. distilled water or rosewater
  • 3 drops geranium essential oil

  • In a double boiler, melt the beeswax. In a saucepan, heat the oil slightly, then pour it into the melted wax. Beat until combined.
  • In a saucepan, heat the water or rosewater, then stir it, drop by drop, into the oil and wax mixture. Remove from the heat and stir until the mixture is cooled and thick. Blend in the essential oil.
  • Spoon mixture into a jar and store in a cool, dark place.

    Cleansing Milk

  • 2/3 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp. each dried elder flowers and lime flowers
  • 1 tsp. dried chamomile
  • 1 tbsp. honey

  • In a saucepan, over low heat, bring the milk and dried ingredients to a simmer. Leave on low heat for 30 minutes.
  • Remove from the heat, stir in the honey, and allow to cool.
  • Strain into a bottle and store in a cool, dark place.
  • Use within seven days.
  • Shake before use.
  • This gentle cleanser will remove all traces of oil and makeup.

    Almond-Oatmeal Body Scrub

  • 2-3 aloe vera leaves
  • 2 tbsp. honey
  • 2 drops geranium essential oil
  • 2 drops palmarosa essential oil
  • 1 cup almonds, ground
  • 1 cup rolled oats, ground

  • Cut the aloe leaves in half lengthwise and scoop out 1-2 tbsp. of the clear gel (the pigmented gel can be irritating) into a bowl.
  • Mix in the honey and essential oils.
  • Place the almonds and oatmeal in a second bowl. Stir in the liquid, adding a little water as needed to make a thick paste.
  • Use half the paste to rub all over your body, paying special attention to dry-skin areas.
  • Rinse off in the shower.
  • Apply an aromatic body oil.
  • Put the remaining paste in the sterilized jar and store in the refrigerator. Makes enough for 2 applications.

    Ideal Face Cleanser

  • 1/4 cup almond oil
  • 2 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 2 tsp. wheat-germ oil
  • 4 drops lavender essential oil
  • 1 drop geranium essential oil

  • Place all the ingredients in a sterilized glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid and shake for several minutes.
  • Store in a cool, dark place. Makes about 3 1/3 ounces

    Honey-Almond Face Scrub

    This scrub is good also for areas such as elbows, legs, and hands.

  • 1 tbsp. honey
  • 2 tbsp. ground almonds
  • 1 drop geranium essential oil

  • Place a cup in a saucepan of hot water. Warm the honey in the cup. (Alternatively, place the honey in the cup and warm in the microwave.)
  • Place the almonds in the bowl and stir in sufficiently warmed honey to make a spreadable paste. Stir in the essential oil.
  • To apply, first rinse your face with tepid water. Then carefully massage in the scrub, paying attention to any flaky skin. Keep any leftover mixture in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. Makes enough for 1 or 2 applications.

    Back to Index

    E-Mail