How to Make a Talcum Powder With Herbs

Orris root, the rhizome from which the iris grows, has been used in cosmetics for centuries. The Florentine iris -- the species most often used for cosmetic purposes -- was first distributed commercially in Florence, Italy, during the Middle Ages. The dried root has a heady violet scent, which lingers for quite a long time. It is used in everything from cosmetics to potpourris to herbal pillows. Dried orris root is also often used in face and talcum powders. When combined with other herbs and a few other ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen cabinets or which can easily be found in your local grocery store, a talcum powder that you will want to use regularly can easily be made.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 9 ozs. finely ground orris root
• 5 ozs. corn starch
• 2 ozs. fine rice flower
• 6 ozs. powdered coriander
• 2 ozs. powdered cloves
• 1 oz. powdered cinnamon
• 1 oz. powdered sandalwood
• Glass jar with lid
• Coffee grinder (optional)
• Optional: a few drops of an essential oil

How to Make a Talcum Powder With Herbs

1. Buy powdered herbs or use the coffee grinder to grind the orris root and other herbs (coriander, cloves, cinnamon and sandalwood) as finely as possible.

2. Combine the powdered herbs with 5 ozs. of cornstarch and 2 ozs. of fine rice flour. Mix well and store in the glass jar with lid.

3. Add a few drops of an essential oil (optional) for an enhanced scent. Be careful to not add too much, though. You do not want your talcum powder to turn into a paste.

Tips & Warnings

• Try adding some powdered vanilla to your herbal talcum powder. Grind some lavender flowers into a fine powder to add for a talcum powder to relax the senses.
• As with all herbal remedies, be sure to test a small patch of skin for any possible allergic reactions before using. If you have any concerns about the use of any herbs, consult your physician or a certified herbalist.

References

• Caroline Foley, Jill Nice, and Marcus A. Webb; New Herb Bible; 2002.
• Claire Kowalchik and William H. Hylton, eds,; Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs; 1998.
• Sarah Baker, ed.; The Complete Illustrated Book of Herbs, 2009.

Resources

• How to Make an Herbal After-Bath Oil
• Medicinal Herbs: Eucalyptus

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