Back to Barnesville: Old Time Skin Remedies from Rural Georgia, Part Two

remedies for the skin from Rural Georgia     Part Two

Reproduced with permission form the author; www.backtobarnesville.com

From Jim Doggetts Booklet, “Back to Barnesville”, 1977:

“While living in rural Barnesville, Georgia before the back-to-nature movement became popular, I spoke with many senior citizens regarding the various species of medicinal plants in the area, and how the people used them for different remedies.

Realizing the value of this almost lost part of our rich heritage due to certain claims of science, I set out to bring the information into some workable perspective so others could benefit form this knowledge and pass it on to future generations.  Back to Barnesville is the result.  A concise index of home remedies used by our ancestors for hundreds of years with confidence.  It can help you CUT COST by using what you already have.”

Dry Skin Cleanser

Mix 1 ounce olive oil with 1 ounce of powdered milk. Rub in skin and leave for about 15 minutes  and rinse of with warm water.

Honey Cleanser

Spread honey over face  to tone and revitalize skin.  Leave on for 15 to 20 minutes.  Then rinse off with warm water.  Honey is an excellent substance for all skin types.

Facial Mask

Mix equal amounts of wheat germ flour and yogurt until smooth;  apply to face thoroughly.  Leave for about 20 minutes and remove coating with warm water, then rinse with cold.

Warts

Rub warts with the inside of banana peel, allow to dry and repeat after several hours.  Continue this application daily for about a week and warts should vanish.

Wrinkles

Heat approximately 1 ounce of olive oil in a small pot.  When oil is warm, massage wrinkle are thoroughly for fifteen minutes.

Sunburn Ointment

Mix equal parts of glycerin, sunflower seed oil and witch hazel.  Lightly massage sunburned areas.

Remedy For Boils

Make a solution of Epsom salts with hot water.  Apply solution with with clean cloth.  Crushed fig leaves in a bandage can also be used to eliminate boils.

Facial Fruit Pack

Mash two medium size tomatoes to a pulp and apply to skin.  Leave on for twenty minutes, then rinse with warm water; enjoy the renewing , cleansing qualities of this facial.

*These recipes are not endorsed or recommended by Atlanta Salon & Spa.  You should consult with a professional and do your own research before attempting the use of any home treatments.