The Kitchen Herbalist’s Facial Toner

For centuries, herbs and flower preparations have been prized in facial care for both men and women, offering solutions for skin problems and enhancing skin quality and appearance.

Different cultures have developed specific herb usage based on locally available plants, resulting in diverse skincare practices worldwide.

While documented results may be limited, many cultures have written down anecdotal results supporting the efficacy of herbal skincare.

Herbal skincare is highly individualized, with the best herbs varying based on factors like genetics, age, climate, and environmental conditions.

What can a herbal toner do for your skin? It can hydrate, tighten, tone, soothe, and rejuvenate your skin, depending on the herbs that you use.

Below is the Herbal Facial Toner recipe:

• Fill a muslin bag/tea strainer with 1/4 cup of dried herbs (see suggestions here)

• Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herbal bag

• Add 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar to tea (for normal or oily skin) OR Add 1/4 cup for dry skin

• Cover and steep for at least 20 minutes

• Remove herbs from tea

• Add about 1 tablespoon of raw honey to 1 cup of the hot tea or tea with vinegar

• Stir to mix

• Allow to cool completely

• Transfer into a sealable bottle or spray bottle

To use: Shake well and dab on the face after cleansing using a clean cotton pad or your clean hands. Some people prefer to pour it into a small spray bottle and spritz it on and pat on.

Storage: Tea will last about 7 days if refrigerated without ACV added. If vinegar was added, it will act as a preservative and can last 3-4 weeks if left in a cool, dark place.

If you’re interested in more natural personal care product recipes, check out my ebook: A Guide to Natural Bath & Body Care. Inside, you'll find a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the process of making potent herbal oils and 20 essential everyday bath and body care recipes right in your own home, including a variation of this one!