4. TOILET RECIPES

Tooth Powder

Equal parts of Orris Root (powdered), Bayberry Bark, Bistort Root and Prepared chalk

To Darken Grey Hair

Grey hair may be gradually and harmlessly darkened by brushing regularly and thoroughly with the ounce to pint infusion of Red Sage. Both growth and texture also benefit.

Shampoo (General)

Balm . . . half ounce
Rosemary . . half ounce
Melilot . . . half ounce
Soapwort . . half ounce

Tie up the herbs in a linen bag and pour on them 1 gallon of boiling water. When cool enough apply all over the scalp with a cup for several minutes, massaging well with the finger-tips.

5. CULINARY HERBS

In addition to Celery Seed, Pennyroyal and Red Sage, which have also definite medicinal purposes and are dealt with in the dictionary, the following list includes the remainder of the herbs used in the kitchen. In addition to being valuable as seasonings, their qualities as digestives make it desirable that they should be added to dishes wherever possible. The slightly medicinal action, which entitles these culinary herbs to consideration as aids to digestion is shown :

Basil : Aromatic, carminative, cooling.
Bay Leaves : Carminative.
Marjoram : Tonic, stimulant.
Mint : Aromatic.
Parsley : Aperient, diuretic.
Savory : Aromatic, carminative.
Tarragon : Aromatic.
Thyme : Tonic, antiseptic.

6. GATHERING & DRYING OF HERBS

Herbs should be gathered just after they are fully developed and are beginning to go back for the season. To dry, keeping the medicinal properties intact; they should be tied in small bunches and hung head downwards from a wire line stretched across a dry, shady and airy room. They should never be spread on the floor.

Roots should be collected only after the herb itself has fallen back for the season, no matter whether the plant is annual, biennial or perennial. Barks should never be taken from the living tree, but only in the spring time from a tree that has been cut down the previous autumn. If naturally and carefully dried, the therapeutic virtues will remain for long periods.

The above are general hints only, to which, for the expert gatherer, there will be many exceptions.