Sylvia RoseOct 185 min readTalc (Magnesium Silicate): Beauty, Art & IndustryTalc or hydrated magnesium silicate is a naturally occurring mineral, primarily composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. With its...
Sylvia RoseOct 166 min read10 Ancient Spices of Trade, Health & BeautySpices come from distant lands along ancient trade routes. These commodities bring flavor to food, health and beauty to consumers and...
Sylvia RoseSep 294 min readHydrogen Peroxide: Chemistry, Production, RisksHydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) is one of the most versatile chemicals today due to powerful oxidizing properties and a wide range of...
Sylvia RoseSep 273 min readSteam Distilling Floral & Herbal Essential OilsDistilling essential oil can be used for aromatherapy, in cuisine, beauty, healing or to set a mood. Here's the methodology to capture...
Sylvia RoseSep 253 min readOil of Philosophers: Alchemy Health & BeautyOil of Brick is known as Oil of Philosophers by alchemists and Oleum de Lateribus (Oil on the Sides) by apothecaries. This medicinal and...
Sylvia RoseSep 225 min readAntimony (Stibnite, Kohl) Ancient Metal of Science & BeautyAntimony (stibnite, Sb) is one of the elements known by the ancients, a primary source of black powder kajal or kohl. With its silvery...
Sylvia RoseJul 274 min readCaterina Sforza: Renaissance AlchemyCaterina Sforza (1463-1509) is a remarkable figure of the Italian Renaissance, leading a colorful and controversial life. Alchemy is...
Sylvia RoseApr 154 min readAlum: Tanning, Dye & Beauty SaltsAlum is an ingredient in processes such as dyeing fabric, tanning hides and water purification. Alum is ubiquitous in ancient and...