3 all-natural hand treatments to make at home

These hand treatments are especially good for hard-working hands. You will spend just a dollar or so to make the entire recipe, while enjoying the fact that it's natural.

To make calendula tea, pour a cup of boiling water over two millilitres (half a teaspoon) of dried calendula flower petals and let it steep until cool.

• 45 ml (3 tbsp) beeswax, grated or shaved
• 125 ml (1/2 c) sesame oil
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) coconut oil
• 5 ml (1 tsp) honey
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) calendula tea
• 3 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 ml (1/2 tsp) baking soda

  1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, mix all the ingredients. Set the microwave to medium heat and cook 30 seconds or until beeswax is melted. Remove from oven with hot pads and allow to cool.

  2. Pour mixture into a wide-mouthed, sterilized jar with a tight top. Store in cool, dark place until ready to use.

• 45 ml (3 tbsp) paraffin
• 125 ml (1/2 c) mineral oil
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) coconut oil
• 15 ml (1 tbsp) glycerin

1.In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, combine the paraffin with the oils. Stir until paraffin is melted and the mixture is blended. Stir in the glycerin and remove the pan from the heat. Let mixture cool.

2.Apply cooled cream to cuticle area. Rub in and allow to rest for ten minutes or so.

3.Trim cuticles with a cuticle tool. Massage away cream by applying a gentle body or hand lotion and rubbing lightly, then rinsing with warm water.

• 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive or other cooking oil
• 5 ml (1 tsp) almond extractor
• 1 drop lavender essential oil (optional)
• 2 small plastic bags that will fit over your hands

1.Place the oil in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on medium-high for a few seconds until it is warmed, not hot. Add almond extract or lavender, if desired. Stir.

2.Rub the oil on your hands, massaging your fingers and palms. Cover your hands with the plastic bags and wrap a clean hand towel over the bags. Sit comfortably for about five minutes.

3.Remove the bags and rinse your hands with warm water, massaging away the oil. Gently pat dry with the towel and apply a light hand lotion