by Cathy Monrad
Mother’s Day is here. And in Rochester, especially, lilacs are synonymous with this special day. I decided to make a large batch of this lilac facial toner to give as gifts to all the special mothers in my life.
This toner can also be added to a bath, used as a hair rinse, or spritzed on bed sheets for a lovely scent.
MATERIALS
Quart size wide-mouth glass jar with lid
1/3 cup lilac blossoms
1/3 cup organic witch hazel
2/3 cup distilled water
Spray bottle or clean jar for storing final product
To Make Toner
- Dry lilac blossoms overnight on a paper towel until they are slightly wilted.
- Place blossoms in a jar, then add witch hazel and water to jar. Be sure the blossoms are completely covered by liquid. If not, add more witch hazel.
- Place lid on jar, then store in a warm location out of direct sunlight.
- Let the mixture infuse for two weeks, occasionally shaking gently to mix.
- Strain the mixture and pour face toner into a clean jar or spray bottle. The spent blossoms can be composted.
To Use Toner: Apply lilac toner with a cotton ball or spritz on face after washing. Keep refrigerated if desired. Since the alcohol in the witch hazel acts as a preservative, the toner can simply be stored in a cool place.
Cathy Monrad is the graphic designer and bestest garden crafter for the Upstate Gardeners’ Journal.
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