Queen of Hungary’s Water was the world’s first distillable perfume – predating Eau de Cologne by almost five centuries.
The “water” is more of a beauty tonic, bestowed with near-magical properties: early recipes suggest you drink, bathe, rub it on you and even inhale it in order to receive the most benefit. Word has it the Queen of Hungary used it at age 70 and was proposed to by a 25 year old Duke from Lithuania.
The tonic is a great astringent for the skin, full of volatile oils and it also makes a great hair rinse.
The origins are controversial, and different sources claim everything from a monk creating the blend, to some traveling Roma people, or a court alchemist.
If you can’t find everything that’s been a part of it in the past, lean on Rosemary
Common Blends Included
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Lavender
- Mint
- Sage
- Orange Blossom
- Lemon Peel
- Calendula
- Roses
- Chamomile
- Cider vinegar to cover (preferably organic)
- Rose water or witch hazel
How to make Queen of Hungary’s Water
1. Pour all the herbs into a widemouthed glass jar to equal about 23 tablespoons of dried herb
2. Add enough vinegar that it rises about two inches above the herbs; close the jar tight and let it sit in a warm or sunny spot for 2-3 weeks
3. Strain out the herbs with a fine mesh
4. Add either rose water or witch hazel in a ratio of 1:1 to the remaining liquid
6. Rebottle the mixture and store in a cool, dry place
