English ivy (Hedera helix) is used in commercial bath preparations and massage creams. At home, the primary cosmetic use of ivy is in the treatment of cellulite, the orange peel appearance of skin that dimples thighs and other body parts. It can also be made into a facial wash that will tighten the skin. The recipe below can be used for either purpose.
The Recipe
2 tbsp dried ivy leaves, crumbled
2 tbsp water, boiling
3 tsp rosewater
1 tbsp linseed
Pour the water over the leaves and infuse for 2 hours. Strain, warm the rosewater in a double boiler. Turn off the heat. Add the linseed, leave 2 hours. Strain and combine both liquids. Pat on the skin of the face and neck. Leave 15 minutes. Rinse off with clean water.
CAUTION:
For external use only. Ivy is mildly toxic when eaten and can cause vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The berries are more poisonous than the leaves, but both contain toxic saponins. Contact with ivy can cause skin reactions in those who are sensitive.
© Anna Franklin, from the forthcoming Hearth Witch’s Kitchen Herbal, Llewellyn, 2023
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