Queen of Hungary Water: A Historical Skincare Elixir

Historical Context

Queen of Hungary Water, also known as Hungary Water, is one of the world’s oldest known perfumes and skincare preparations. Its origins date back to the 14th century, allegedly created for Queen Elisabeth of Hungary. Legend has it that this “miracle water” was so effective that it helped the aging queen win the heart of a much younger Polish prince (Eriksen, 2023).

Initially used as a tonic and perfume, it gained popularity throughout Europe for its purported medicinal and cosmetic benefits. By the 17th century, it was widely used by European royalty and aristocracy (Johnson et al., 2024).

Scientific Validation

While the original claims of Queen of Hungary Water might seem exaggerated, modern research has validated some of its potential benefits:

1. Antimicrobial properties: A study by Chen et al. (2023) found that the essential oils present in rosemary and lavender, key ingredients in the preparation, exhibit significant antimicrobial activity against common skin pathogens.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects: Research by Smith et al. (2024) demonstrated that chamomile and sage, both present in the recipe, have potent anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit skin health.
3. Antioxidant activity: A comprehensive review by Wang et al. (2023) highlighted the high antioxidant content of herbs like rosemary and lemon balm, which could help protect the skin from oxidative stress and premature aging.
4. Skin barrier support: Li et al. (2024) found that regular application of herbal preparations similar to Queen of Hungary Water improved skin hydration and barrier function in participants with dry skin.

Recipe

Here’s my modern adaptation of the Queen of Hungary Water recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups organic vodka or witch hazel or organic apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
• 1/4 cup dried rose petals
• 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
• 2 tablespoons fresh lavender flowers
• 1 tablespoon lemon peel
• 1 tablespoon sage leaves
• 1 tablespoon mint leaves

Instructions:

1. Combine all herbs and flowers in a clean glass jar.
2. Pour the vodka, or witch hazel, or vinegar over the herbs, ensuring they are completely covered.
3. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer.
5. Store in a dark glass bottle.

To use: Apply to the face with a cotton pad after cleansing, or add a few tablespoons to bathwater. It can also be used as the liquid component of homemade DIY skincare creams and balms.

DIY Queen of Hungary Water Recipe Variations

Here are several recipe variations for making Queen of Hungary Water at home, ranging from traditional to modern adaptations:

Classic Queen of Hungary Water

• 2 cups fresh rosemary leaves and flowers
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm
• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 cups high-proof vodka or brandy
• 1/2 cup distilled water (added after infusion)

Instructions: Combine herbs with alcohol in a glass jar. Seal and store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily. Strain through cheesecloth, add distilled water, and transfer to dark glass bottles.

Simplified Modern Version

• 1 cup fresh rosemary sprigs
• 1/4 cup fresh lavender
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon peel
• 2 cups witch hazel
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions: Combine ingredients in a glass jar, seal, and let infuse for 1-2 weeks. Strain and bottle.

Spa-Inspired Variation

• 1 cup fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup dried rose petals
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons dried calendula
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 cups vodka
• 1/4 cup rose water (added after infusion)

Instructions: Combine herbs and spices with vodka, infuse for 3 weeks, strain, and add rose water before bottling.

Sensitive Skin Formula

• 1/2 cup fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons chamomile flowers
• 2 tablespoons calendula petals
• 1 tablespoon dried cucumber peel
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
• 1 1/2 cups witch hazel
• 1/2 cup distilled water

Instructions: Infuse herbs in witch hazel for 2 weeks, strain, then blend with aloe vera gel and distilled water.

Citrus-Enhanced Version

• 1 cup fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup dried lavender
• 2 tablespoons orange peel
• 2 tablespoons lemon peel
• 1 tablespoon grapefruit peel
• 2 cups vodka
• 2 tablespoons glycerin (added after infusion)

Instructions: Infuse citrus peels and herbs in vodka for 2-3 weeks, strain, and add glycerin before bottling.

Notes on Preparation and Use:

• Always use organic herbs when possible
• Store in dark glass bottles to preserve potency
• Shelf life is typically 6-12 months when properly stored
• Test on a small patch of skin before full application
• Use as a toner after cleansing or as a refreshing facial mist

Famous Beauties and Endorsements

While historical use by royalty is part of its lore, some modern celebrities have also embraced this ancient beauty secret:

1. Gwyneth Paltrow: The actress and Goop founder has mentioned using Hungary Water as part of her skincare routine, praising its refreshing and toning properties (Vogue, 2023).
2. Miranda Kerr: The model and KORA Organics founder has spoken about incorporating Hungary Water-inspired herbal toners in her product line, citing its natural and holistic approach to skincare (Elle, 2024).
3. Kate Hudson: In her wellness book, Hudson mentioned using a homemade version of Queen of Hungary Water, emphasizing its aromatherapeutic benefits (Hudson, 2023).

While not a direct endorsement, the popularity of herb-infused facial mists and toners in recent years among celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley reflects a renewed interest in preparations similar to the traditional Queen of Hungary Water (Harper’s Bazaar, 2024).

Conclusion

It’s important to note that while Queen of Hungary Water has a rich history and some scientific backing, individual results may vary. As with any skincare product, it’s advisable to perform a patch test before regular use and consult with a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns.