The use of plants and herbs as cosmetic materials has it's roots in all ancient cultures. Egyptians incorporated beauty preparations in their religious and ceremonial rituals. Ancient Greeks developed a belief in health and beauty not uncommon from our own modern beliefs. Romans indulged in aromatic rituals and body pampering. In fact, a Roman writer of the first century, Citro, produced four books on cosmetics! Included in his books were a reange of recipes for hair care, avoiding wrinkles and illiminating body odors. Our Ancestors of the Renaissance were aware of skin care being seperate from medicinal care. Recipes for soaps, creams and herbal waters were collected, recorded and handed down from mother to daughter for generations. During the 19th Century, beauty aids became industialized. Mr. T.T. Pond offered his "Pond's Extract" to the public and other manufacturers followed quickly behind. Soon the innovation of preservatives worked it's way into the industry and mass production created an overwhelming choice for consumers.

Today's commercial products are expensive, notto mention the fact that testing can involve cruelty to animals! Along with these worries are the increased allerfic reactions to the chemical preservatives, synthetic perfumes and artificial colorings used by manufacturers. While some companies have rushed to create their own ranges of herbal cosmetics, use of preservatives still prevails. Making your own lotions, creams, toothpaste and hair rinse is much more practical. You are in control of the ingrediants and can reduce, substitue or illiminate any one that is the culprit.

Before using an herbal preparations, you are strongly advised to sample a small amount first. Especially if you have had a reaction in the past. To do this, use a bandaid and 4 of the ingredients. Place a small amount of each ingredient on the gauze area of the bandaid. Place the bandaid on your inner arm between the wrist and elbow. Leave it there for 24 hours, which is ample time for any reaction to show up.

Below are some basics to get you started with using herbs for your bath and toiletries. The equipment you need is probably already in your kitchen. I will warn you though, don't use aluminum pots for your infusions and decoctions, as it has properties that could alter the outcome. Also, if you have hard water, it is a good practice to buy distilled water for your herbal needs, as the lime in the water prevents the entire breakdown of the herbs properties.