Raid your local health food store's dried herb section for this recipe, or better yet, if you live in an area where bay leaves actually grow on trees, fill a quart mason jar with locally picked dried leaves.

• 2-4 cups dried bay leaves
• A few sprigs of dried rosemary (optional)
• Rum, to cover

Break the dried bay leaves in half. Fill a quart or pint mason jar with as many leaves as will fit to about 3 inches from the top. Add a few sprigs of dried rosemary, if desired. Add enough rum to come a good 2 inches above the leaves. Screw on the cover, and let set for 1 month; strain.

Variation: Add a bit of grated organic orange peel, cloves, and ginger root, as desired.

Shelf life: Indefinite.

Alcohol-Free Softening Aftershave Some men don't like having alcohol in their aftershave. This recipe is for them!

• 2 cups witch hazel extract
• 2 ounces rose water
• 2 ounces aloe vera gel
• 1/2 ounce vegetable glycerin

A few drops of an essential oil of your choice (such as peppermint and
eucalyptus), if desired

Combine the ingredients in a jar, and shake to blend. Pat on the face after shaving.

Makes 2 1/2 cups.