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Page 71
| matic properties. The juice of the plant may fade freckles. The powdered root is used to make dry shampoos. The roots are also chewed as a breath freshener. The essential oil has a fragrance reminiscent of violets due to the presence of the ketone irone and is used to scent toothpastes, soaps and powders. Orris root is considered a fixative and helps other herbs to retain their scent when mixed with them. For this reason it is an important ingredient in sachets and potpourris. |
| Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) |
| Parsley leaves are valued for their antioxidant, antiseptic and nutritive qualities. They are used in poultices to treat bruises, insect bites and sprains. Rubbed on the body they help to repel mosquitoes. Parsley is a welcome addition to facial steams for dry and oily skin as well as to lotions for soothing eczema and psoriasis. It can also be used in compresses to soothe tired eyes. Eating parsley on a regular basis helps to promote clear skin. It is included in hair rinses for dark hair and to treat dandruff. As a mouthwash it helps to freshen the breath. The essential oil from the seed is used in perfumery. |
| Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli) |
| Native to southeast Asia and well-loved for its scent, the leaves of patchouli are aged for at least 24 hours before being distilled. Fabrics, including rugs and shawls imported from India, are impregnated with the scent of patchouli as a moth deterrent. The essential oil is considered antifungal, antiseptic and rejuvenative. It is used in cleansers, moisturizers, soaps and salves to treat acne, athlete's foot, eczema and dry mature skin. It is also added to shampoos, conditioners and hair rinses for the treatment of dandruff. |
| Peppermint (Mentha piperita) |
| Peppermint is a cooling and stimulating antiseptic which |
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