Botanical blend for a vibrant morning cleanse—rooted in historical herbal care. Our elderflower clove morning wash softens and beautifies the skin while preventing breakouts. Perfect for all skin types, even sensitive skin!
Story of Our Product
In the late 18th century, a transformative shift began to emerge in skincare, moving away from artificial enhancements toward natural care. This recipe, discovered in a 1778 unpublished manuscript, exemplifies the era's growing appreciation for genuine beauty practices.
Contrary to the common perception of colonial cosmetics as harmful, many preparations like this one were thoughtfully crafted and have been overlooked in modern historical narratives. The smallpox vaccination, just on the horizon, marked a pivotal moment in health and beauty, paving the way for skincare innovations and natural remedies.
This invigorating morning face wash was cherished for its ability to awaken the complexion and lend it a fresh, lively appearance. Elderflower and clove, celebrated in historical texts, were known for their soothing and revitalizing properties, while grape spirits provided a gentle astringent and tonic effect.
Historical Uses of Clove and Elderberries Across Cultures
Cloves: A Global Spice of Power and Prestige
Cloves have long been a symbol of power and prestige, their journey spanning continents and centuries. In the Spice Islands of Indonesia, cloves were so valuable they were used as currency and became a symbol of national pride. In India, they found their place in Ayurvedic medicine and cuisine, warming the body and treating digestive issues. Across the seas in China, as early as 200 BCE, courtiers chewed cloves to freshen their breath before addressing the emperor.
The story of cloves continued in Ancient Rome and Greece, where they were prized for their medicinal properties and association with wealth. In Africa, particularly Zanzibar, cloves became central to the economy and featured prominently in ceremonial traditions. Europe embraced cloves during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, incorporating them into pomanders to mask odors and festive dishes like mulled wine. Even in South America, cloves were integrated into traditional dishes post-colonization, introduced by Portuguese settlers.
Elderflowers: Folklore, Healing, and Feminine Magic
Elderflowers, often considered one of the oldest cultivated herbs, carry a legacy steeped in folklore and healing. In Celtic and Germanic traditions, they were revered for their protective qualities, dreamwork, and connections to goddesses like Holle and Venus. In England, elderflowers were used in facial washes and hung in doorways to ward off evil spirits.
Scandinavia wove elderflowers into faerie lore, believing that sleeping under elder trees could induce visions of the fae realm. The Ancient Greeks and Romans turned to elderflowers for medicinal purposes, treating inflammation, dropsy, and gynecological conditions. During the Middle Ages, elderflowers symbolized sorrow and sacredness, believed to be the wood of the cross and linked to Judas Iscariot.
In modern herbalism, elderflowers continue to be cherished for their fever-relieving and immune-supporting properties, with syrups and teas used to combat colds and flu. Their enduring presence across cultures speaks to their versatility and the deep respect they command in both historical and contemporary practices.
Why Choose Our Product
Imagine waking up to the uplifting scent of elderflower and clove, a fragrance that gently stirs the senses and sets the tone for a refreshing morning ritual. This isn’t just a face wash—it’s a journey back in time, using historical preparation methods of the 18th century.
In the 18th century, each ingredient was carefully chosen for its natural profile, ensuring a harmonious blend that nurtured the skin while honoring the emerging concept of inner purity and outer beauty. The elderflower and clove combination is more than skincare; it’s a connection that revives history and brings it back into our modern world.
Crafted with care, this product offers a luxurious experience born from tradition, inviting you to rediscover beauty through the lens of history and encouraging you to embrace a moment of self-care steeped in heritage and authenticity.
An Enlivening Morning Wash ~ 1778 Recipe ~ Elderflower & Clove Facial Astringent
Each ingredient in this astringent was chosen with purpose, drawing on both historical knowledge and modern understanding. Here’s a look at their traditional uses and why they were included in this formulation.
Ingredient Botanical Origin Key Properties Historical & Sensory Notes Elderflower Organic Astringent, anti-inflammatory
Used in Georgian beauty routines to lighten freckles and soothe redness Clove Organic Stimulating, warming Known for its warming qualities and ability to revive the skin Distilled Water Purified Hydrating, cleansing Provides a gentle base for the infusion Grape Spirits (SVR) Astringent, toning Historically used as a gentle tonic for the skin