For Tender Hands

February 6th, 2025

Procure 5 cents’ worth of pure glycerine and exactly its weight of tincture of benzoin; put these in a bottle, then add a pinch of salt and half a pint of cold water, previously boiled and cooled, shake well and it is ready for use. Put a bottle of the lotion in the bathroom and another near the kitchen sink; every time the hands are washed dry them thoroughly on a soft towel and apply a small quantity of the foregoing liquid. It is not at all sticky or greasy and has a pleasant odor. It is harmless and comforting for chapped faces, especially for little folks after playing outdoors on windy days.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

For Tired Eyes

February 2nd, 2025

Nothing is more restful to weary, throbbing eyes than a blindfold at bedtime, best made of an old black silk or lisle stocking. This is not a fancy, but a scientific fact, due to the perfect rest that absolute darkness insures to the sensitive nerves. If desired the band may be extended over the forehead, aiding greatly to free the brow from furrows. This, with the faithful use of hot water for the eyes, ought to relieve the optician of much of his work.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Uses of Bran Water

January 27th, 2025

Few housekeepers know the value of bran water in the household. Its uses are manifold and its cost but a trifle. As an effectual and harmless dirt remover it cannot be surpassed. In preparing it for use, place in a cloth bag some bran, upon which pour boiling water; let stand for several minutes; squeeze the bag out and remove, when the water is ready for use.

In washing woodwork, be it hardwood or painted, it will be found invaluable. The dirt is quickly removed and the original finish of the wood is retained.

For washing printed fabrics it has no equal, for it will not injure the most delicate colors.

If one would use bran water when washing the hair, she would find it not only cleanses the scalp thoroughly, but also imparts to the hair that beautiful luster so much desired.

Another important consideration is that the water does not injure the hands, like so many cleansing preparations; on the contrary, it has long been known that bran is an excellent skin whitener and beneficial when used in the bath.

Lastly, it will cure chronic constipation, by drinking anywhere from three to five cups of bran water at intervals before breakfast. A few drops of lemon juice make it more palatable to some people. For this purpose it is well to soak the bran over night in a covered receptacle and strain in the morning.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Bites

November 5th, 2018

Apply vaseline and burnt alum; lemon juice for bee stings ; common bluing for bites of any insect, or vaseline, lard and burnt alum can be applied.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Relief for Burns

November 1st, 2018

For a burn or scald apply kerosene. It will allay the pain almost instantly and quickly heal the injured parts.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Invalid’s Coffee

October 24th, 2018

A nourishing drink for sick people is made as follows : Make a strong cup of coffee, add cream and a little more sugar than usual, and let it all come to a boil. Then pour it over a well-beaten egg in a cup in which it is to be served.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Chilblains

October 8th, 2018

Pour kerosene oil in a saucer, wring out a rag in it and with this wipe the affected parts several times each day. If awake in the night, do the same thing. Do not saturate the cloth and lay it upon the chilblains, as it might cause a blister. Wipe the feet with a dampened cloth and let them dry themselves.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Drive Ants Away

October 4th, 2018

Sprinkle a little epsom salts around or near where the ants are and they will quickly disappear.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Salt Tonic

August 5th, 2018

When you come in from a long, tiresome walk, try giving the feet a hot footbath of salt water, while you sip a cup of warm milk with a pinch of salt in it. A daily bath of salt water or a rub from a salt towel will prove wonders for nervous people.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

Tea and Coffee Stains

August 3rd, 2018

Only a few people know that butter will remove tea, coffee or fruit stains. It should be rubbed on the linen or cotton and then the material should be soaked in hot water and a mild soap. In fact, any stains, except ink or wine stains, sprinkle salt over the spots and pour boiling water through it until the spot has gone.

Source: 1001 Household Hints, Ottilie V. Ames

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    NOTE: these remedies are listed only for information and/or amusement. They are not to be construed as medical advice of any type, nor are they recommended for use. Consult your doctor or other medical professional for any medical advice you require.