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

French Milk of Roses

June 1st, 2024

Mix 2 1/2 pints of rose-water with 1/2 a pint of rosemary-water, then add tincture of storax and tincture of benzoin, of each 2 ounces; and esprit de rose, 1/2 an ounce. This is a useful wash for freckles.

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

Cough Mixture

March 21st, 2021

One ounce of tincture of benzoin, two wine-glasses of whisky, one cup of molasses. Mix well. One teaspoonful whenever cough is troublesome.

Source: The Canadian Family Cookbook, Grace E. Denison

Anti-Freckle Lotion

October 22nd, 2018

Take tincture of benzoin, 2 ounces; tincture of tolu, 1 ounce; oil of rosemary, 1/2 a drachm. Mix well and bottle. When required to be used, add a teaspoonful of the mixture to about a wine-glassful of water, and apply the lotion to the face or hands, &c., night and morning, carefully rubbing it in with a soft towel.

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

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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.