Herb Beads

     Herbal beads are most often made of roses. Because of this, I have dedicated a whole page to rose petal beads. If this is what you are looking for click here .
      Rose petals aren't the only herbal product you can make beads from though, lavender and mint are also good choices. For lavender I use the little flowers, like most people use lavender. In the case of mint I use the leaves. Other herbs you can make herbal beads out of are clover, violet, and lilac. I'm pretty sure you can use any herb for this process, don't be afraid to try something. I'm unsure if this will work with the whole plant however I can't see why not, but I've never tried. Experiment with these products, perhaps even mixing them together.
     To begin, gather fresh leaves or flowers in the early morning hours, before the sun has gotten to them and they've begun to wilt. Next, crush the flowers or leaves with a mortar and pestle (or a bowl and wooden spoon). After they are well crushed simmer in an iron pot for an hour with just enough water to cover all the crushed material. After the hour let them cool. Repeat this process every day for a week; your goal is to achieve an ebony coloured pasty substance. If you want you may add some esstential oils to the mixture and stir it in well for a better scent. Once you have this, roll the pasty stuff into ball about twice the size you want your beads (it will shrink). After they are rolled into balls put a large needle through them to make the hole for string or whatever (unless of course you don't want to string them). Alternatively, you could string the beads on a thin copper wire while letting them dry, just be sure you turn them daily if you chose this method.
     When you are finished there are many things you can do with your beads. Put them in potpourri or incense, use them in the bath, leave them in drawers to keep your linens fresh, or string them and wear them! Another nice idea is to chose some protection herbs, make beads, string them, and hang them in the window. If you chose to do this be sure you like the smell of these herbs because when the sun heats them they will give off more scent. When cleaning your beads if they're dusty or whatnot, simply polish them with a soft cloth. You should also polish them after drying for a nicer effect.