As June arrives, it brings with it the delightful fragrance of elderflowers, one of nature’s treasures that I eagerly anticipate working with. These blossoms aren’t just visually stunning in floral arrangements; they’re incredibly versatile in the kitchen and herbal apothecary. From creating infused honey and syrups to crafting glycerites, tinctures, and even delightful elderflower wines and sodas, their uses seem endless and always enchanting.
Beyond their culinary and beverage applications, elderflowers offer potent medicinal benefits as well. Internally, they work wonders for easing nasal congestion, acting as an effective anti-catarrhal agent that clears mucus from sinus passages. Moreover, their ability to induce sweating makes them invaluable for lowering fevers, especially when accompanied by irritability. This cooling effect, known as a relaxing diaphoretic action, helps regulate body temperature naturally.
For skincare enthusiasts, elderflowers are a true ally. They provide deep hydration, balance skin tone, and offer a refreshing toning effect. Whether you choose to cleanse with elderflower water, invigorate with an elderflower toner, or indulge in a rejuvenating herbal facial steam, these blooms bring a revitalizing touch to your skincare routine.
In this blog post, I’ll share an easy and effective recipe for making a witch hazel-infused elderflower toner. This DIY toner not only leaves your skin feeling refreshed but also promotes a balanced complexion. Embrace the beauty and benefits of elderflowers with me as we explore their many uses and celebrate their seasonal splendor!
Supplies needed:
- 32 oz glass Mason Jar
- enough fresh Elderflowers to fill the jar
- enough witch hazel to completely cover the elderflowers (about 32 oz)
- 4 tsp. of vegetable glycerin or 4 tsp. of aloe vera juice (optional for those with dry skin)
Yield = 32-37 oz of facial toner
Directions:
- Fill the 32 oz. mason jar with fresh elderflowers
- Cover the elderflowers with witch hazel
- Cover with the lid and sit in a cool dark area for 7-14 days, shaking every few days.
- Strain the elderflowers and keep the infused liquid in another mason jar.
- If you tend to have drier skin, add 4 tsp. of vegetable glycerin (non-gmo coconut is best) or 4 tsp. of aloe vera juice.
- Fill a spray bottle with the toner and keep the overstock in a cool dark area. (You can also store the overstock in the refrigerator)
The overstock will stay good for 6-12 months.
You can tone your face 1-2 times daily with the elderflower facial toner. Just like other toners, you can use this after you wash and before you moisturize.
You can also find Elderflowers woven into our artisan Flower Queen Facial Toner for more hydration and balanced complexion shop HERE.
