athomebeauty

Lavender season is here and the sweetest tasting lavender I think is “English Lavender” or Lavendula angustifolia. I keep a small jar of the dried buds in my kitchen and one of my favorite recipes is for scones perfect for a morning treat or afternoon tea in your garden.

Have you made “Flaxseed Gel?” It is easy to make simply simmer 2 Tablespoons flaxseed with 1 cup water for 5 minutes until thick then strain and cool. You will have a skin soothing serum that can be used hydrate and nourish your skin. This is especially helpful in the summer months if you are out in the sun too long. I love how simple recipes used by our grandmothers are still trending today. Flax is going to be the Herb of the Year for 2027

It is lavender season and I am enjoying my plants as they bloom. I am also working on the “Herb of the Year” book for 2027 and next year it it Flax, so making these soothing eye rest pillows that combine the relaxing fragrance of lavender and the gentle weight of the flax seeds is a project I am including along with skin and hair care recipes. They are simple to create and make a wonderful herbal gift. You can purchase natural whole flaxseeds at most grocery stores.

I am still in Italy mode and thinking of all the fresh natural beauty ingredients there. You cannot visit Sicily and not enjoy the amazing citrus fruits especially the blood oranges. Vitamin C is so good for our bodies and skin and besides enjoying them in drinks and salads they also make you beautiful. Here is a favorite toner recipe. Enjoy!

Sicilian Citrus Face Toner

This refreshing toner uses the brightening power of Sicilian lemons combined with soothing rosewater. It helps balance skin pH, tighten pores, and leave your face feeling fresh.

Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (strained)
1/2 cup rosewater
1 tablespoon distilled water
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for hydration)

Instructions
Mix lemon juice, rosewater, and distilled water in a clean bottle.
Add honey if you want extra moisture.
Shake well before each use.
Apply with a cotton pad after cleansing your face, avoiding the eye area.
Use daily, preferably in the morning.

Tip: Lemon juice can increase sun sensitivity. Use this toner at night or always apply sunscreen during the day.

It’s Lavender Season! Time to enjoy and harvest your lavender or visit a local farm. Check website for locations near you. For crafting choose tight buds, for culinary english lavender tastes best and dry in small bunches for best results! 💜💜💜💜

I was just in Sicily for a wedding (I know I have been over posting haha) but I loved all the fresh herbs growing in planters, garden beds and containers because they are so useful and also beautiful. Look at this rosemary plant growing at the villa my friend rented so amazing. I just posted some recipes on my blog here is one for a skincare moisturizer you will want to try this summer - if rosemary is not your thing you can substitute with lavender. Ciao

Olive Oil and Rosemary Deep Moisturizer

Olive oil’s rich texture combined with rosemary’s calming effects creates a deeply hydrating moisturizer that suits dry or mature skin.

Ingredients
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
5 drops rosemary essential oil (or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary infusion)
1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)

Instructions
If using fresh rosemary, steep a tablespoon of chopped rosemary in olive oil for 1 week in a dark place, then strain.
Mix olive oil, aloe vera gel, and rosemary oil or infusion.
Add vitamin E oil for extra antioxidant support.
Apply a small amount to your face and neck after cleansing.
Use nightly for best results.