Lady's Mantle hand softener - Keep this soothing hand-softener in the fridge and apply daily - it's wonderful after washing up. 10g (1/2oz) fresh or 5g (1/4oz) dried lady's mantle leaves and flowers, 10g (1/2oz) fresh or 5g (1/4oz) dried lemon balm leaves, 150ml (1/4 pint) filtered, mineral or rainwater, 50ml (2fl oz) lemon juice, 30ml (1fl oz) vodka, 4 drops sweet orange essential oil, 4 tablespoons vegetable glycerine. Chop the lady's mantle and lemon balm and put in a pan with the water. Bring to the boil, simmer for 10 minutes and then allow to cool thoroughly; strain. Take 4 tablespoons of this infusion and pour into a sterilised bottle with a cork or a screw-top; add the other ingredients and seal. Shake well. TIP: Face masks work wonders on hands, too - cleansing or delivering a moisture surge. Next time you indulge in one of the face masks in this book, slather it over your hands, too - then rest your hands on a towel for 10-15 minutes while it works its magic.
Photography by Annie Hanson
