Queen of Hungary Water Astringent

Queen of Hungary Water is a wonderful astringent herbal vinegar. The fall is a wonderful time of year to make this, too, as it makes holiday gifts worth their weight in gold. Homemade soap and Queen of Hungary Water are two of my favorite gifts to make before Halloween because both improve and mellow with a few months of aging.
Gypsies first formulated Queen of Hungary Water, and I have seen many variations of this used as an herbal remedy, a beauty formula for the skin, and even as a disinfectant called The Vinegar of the Four Thieves (from the time of the plague in the 14th century, when perfumers robbed the dead and survived by protecting themselves with the powerfully antibacterial herbs used in the formula).

Herbal vinegars heal and soften the skin because vinegar is a fruit acid known as an alpha hydroxy acid; it works to exfoliate the skin, thereby allowing the body\'s natural emollient oils to reach and moisturize the surface skin. Herbs add nourishment and medicinal properties.

Here is a variation of a recipe by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. For gifts, bottle in colored glass jars.

6 small handfuls lemon balm
5 small handfuls calendula flowers
4 small handfuls rose petals
3 small handfuls comfrey
1 small handful each rosemary, lemon peel, and sage
organic apple cider vinegar, as needed
rose water or witch hazel extract, as needed
Place the herbs in a large glass jug that will hold at last a gallon of liquid. Cover the herbs completely with organic apple cider vinegar, leaving about 2 inches to spare in the jar. Screw the lid on tightly. Let it set for 4 to 6 weeks. Strain. Divide the mixture into smaller jars, and dilute to half its strength with rose water or witch hazel extract. Dab some on your fingers, and massage into your face. Make sure to avoid your eyes. Rinse with warm water if desired.
Shelf Life: Indefinite.
Storage: Glass jars with screw tops