First, have you tried drying your herbs in the microwave? Amazing! I have already dried parsley, sage, and oregano! My herbs are growing so fast!
After a couple of days of off-and-on storms, we now have sunshine. With sunshine, we need to take a little extra care of our skin. Sunshine is actually our friend by providing a great dose of Vitamin D, of which most of us lack. Approximately 15-20 minutes in the sun each day is a great source without having to take a supplement.
To continue longer in the sun for work or play, you need to protect your skin with sunscreen. Most store-bought sunscreen provides protection with a chemical barrier. Unfortunately, the chemicals are absorbed in your skin possibly causing hormone disruption. Homemade sunscreen creates a physical barrier. It's supposed to sit on top of your skin blocking harmful rays.
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/3 cup shea butter
2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
2 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide powder*
30 drops lavender essential oil
Cocoa powder (optional)
Beeswax (optional)
Add coconut oil, shea butter, and sweet almond oil to a large glass measuring cup. Heat mixture in microwave until shea butter is melted.
Carefully measure and stir in the zinc oxide powder. Add essential oil and optional cocoa powder to tint. Stir well to combine.
Store sunscreen in a small air tight jar.
*It is recommended to use a mask when using zinc oxide powder to avoid inhaling, and mix away from small children.
Peppermint essential oil is another good choice for sunscreen, but avoid citrus oils like lemon or grapefruit. They can add to sun sensitivity.
1/4-1/2 cup beeswax can optionally be added to change the consistency to be more firm.
If your skin gets a little too sun kissed, or you just want to cool off after a day in the sun. A cooling after-sun spray is just the thing.
1/4 cup witch hazel
1/2 cup aloe vera gel
1 teaspoon Vitamin E
1/4 cup coconut oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
Combine all ingredients in a small spray bottle. (funnel suggested) Shake well before each use. Spray generously on the affected area. Allow to air dry.
Enjoy the next few days of beautiful weather in your neighborhood. Our forecast is sunny in the 70s! I believe I will be planting lavender, so I need to whip up some sunscreen.