Acne on the Face

January 31st, 2023

Paint with a lotion of 2 drachms of soft soap, an ounce of rectified spirit, and an ounce of spirit of lavender.

Source: Fray’s Golden Recipes for the use of all ages, E. Fray

Milk of Roses

February 19th, 2022

Take 2 ounces of blanched almonds; 12 ounces of rose-water; white soft-soap, or Windsor soap; white wax; and oil of almonds, of each 2 drachms; rectified spirit, 3 ounces; oil of bergamot, 1 drachm; oil of lavender, 15 drops; otto of roses, 8 drops. Beat the almonds well, and then add the rose-water gradually so as to form an emulsion, mix the soap, white wax, and oil together, by placing them in a covered jar upon the edge of the fire-place, then rub this mixture in a mortar with the emulsion. Strain the whole through very fine muslin, and add the essential oils, previously mixed with the spirit.

This is an excellent wash for “sunburns,” freckles, or for cooling the face and neck, or any part of the skin to which it is applied.

Source: The Ladies’ Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness, Florence Hartley

Swaim’s Vermifuge

April 19th, 2017

Worm seed, two ounces; valerian, rhubarb, pink root, white agaric, senna, of each one ounce and a half. Boil in sufficient water to yield three quarts of decoction. Now add to it ten drops of the oil of tansy and forty-five drops of the oil of cloves, dissolved in a quart of rectified spirit. Dose: one tablespoonful at night.

Source: The White House Cookbook, F.L. Gillette

Balsam for Coughs and Colds

September 15th, 2016

Tincture of tolu and compound tincture of benzoin, of each one ounce, rectified spirit, two ounces; mix. The dose is a teaspoonful.

Source: Audel’s Household Helps, Hints and Receipts

Definition: Rectified Spirit

January 1st, 2008

Rectified spirit is a liquid with a high concentration of alcohol, formed by multiple distillation. It is generally used for medicinal or household purposes, or very occasionally in mixed drinks. It usually has a concentration of alcohol above 75%.

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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.