Being a self-care goddess isn’t so easy. Most of us are crazy busy with motherhood, balancing stressful jobs and households, juggling family commitments and keeping the flames of our marriage or relationships sizzling to make much time for ourselves. That coveted "me time" is usually last on the daily to do list. Worse, when we do make time to do something just for ourselves, we can feel guilty and like its selfish.
The wellness and health benefits of aromatherapy can have a gentle effect on one's physical, psychological and mental state. The best way to achieve noticeable results it from using pure, high-quality oils rather than those with synthetic ingredients or fragrances. Organically grown, naturally harvested and minimally process oils are always the best choice and provide more potent extracts. The effectiveness of aromatherapy practices always depends on the quality of the essential oils used in addition to how the oils are being used.
If you have struggled to sleep at night, you may have tried a little dab of Lavender oil on your temples, added a few drops in a diffuser or rubbed a smear on your pillow. Today. I'm sharing some of the lesser known ways to use this beautifully scented herbal oil.
Asthma & Breathing
Did you know that asthma is often worse when sufferers experience stress or anxiety. When the body is under stress it naturally seizes up and this can affect the airways, muscles and the brain. So, using calming essential oils such as Harmony Balance, Chamomile or Lavender along with deep breathing techniques can work wonders to help minimise symptoms. Lavender oil has always been well-loved for all its natural relaxing and mild sedative effects, so its definitely one to have on hand if you or someone you love is asthmatic.
USE: A little dab on the temples or a few drops in a room diffuser can be very calming.
Alleviate Menstrual Cramping
As a young teen, I used get horrific period cramping. I was usually held up in bed for 2 days with a hot water bottle, Nanaproxen and whatever else remedy anyone offered me. I wish I had known about the power of essential oils back then. An all natural muscle relaxer, Lavender is a handy menstrual aid and works well to release the muscular tension associated with period cramping. Applying the oil directly to your abdomen during your menstrual cycle can work in tandem with other remedies. Being a very calming oil, the scent alone can help clam the nervous system, improve moodiness and PMS symptoms that are common as well.
USE: I shared a big article on how to use essential oils the breeze through your periods, you can view it here.
Cold Sores Be Gone
Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are a common put pesky viral infection. The sores usually appear as tiny, fluid-filled blisters on and around your lips. The unpleasant blisters are often grouped together in little patches and can feel quite uncomfortable. After the small blisters break, a scab usually forms which can last several days. Since Lavender oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, you can use it to speed up the recovery from an outbreak of cold sores.
Although it may not have any effect on the virus, Lavender oil can also be helpful in reducing symptoms and the pain associated with cold sores. It is best to dilute Lavender oil with a carrier oil--especially if you have never used it before on your skin. If there is no adverse reaction, you may wish to try a lesser dilution or apply directly but sparingly.
BLEND: Mix 2-3 drops of Lavender into a tablespoon of carrier oil such as Sweet Almond or Jojoba. Other healing oils the work well are Lemon Balm (Melissa), Oregano, Peppermint, or Tea Tree.
Dandruff Remedy
Ughh, that embarrassing dry, flaky scalp. If you are prone to "snowy shoulders" then a blend of Lavender oil and extra virgin Olive oil could be your saving grace. Massage the mixture into the scalp and then wrap your head in a warm towel for 20 minutes. This helps activate the active extracts and ingredients naturally found in the oils. Used once a week as a hair treatment, this can help you to get rid of dandruff and other scalp imbalances. I've also shared some more tips on using essential oils for healthy, glossy hair, here.
BLEND: Mix 2 or 3 drops of the essential oils into a tablespoon of carrier oil of your choice.
DRY HAIR: carrier oils such as Fractionated Coconut, or Avocado oil may help moisturise.
OILY HAIR: choose lighter oils such as Sweet Almond.
Relaxing Pain Relief
Painful inflammation can be treated quite successfully with Lavender oil and is one of my go-to, drug-free pain killers in my Practitioner's medicine cabinet. Aromatherapy massage with Lavender blended with Rose Geranium, Rose, and Jasmine suspended in Sweet Almond and Primrose oils has been used by many Practitioners as a gentle and effective treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, depression, and pain. This is nothing new, the pain-relieving and numbing effects of Lavender have been used to help soothe inflammation and pain in many medical and therapeutic settings over the centuries. The herb also contains, beta-caryophyllene which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Knock the pain out of inflamed joints, sprains or mild burns with fragrant Lavender.
BLEND: 2-3 drops drops of Lavender oil and 1-2 teaspoons Fractionated Coconut oil. Apply the blend to joints or the painful area 2-3 times a day for best relief.
Relieve Sun Burn
Caught too much sun, get out the Lavender quick smart. If you have a nasty sunburn or even a mild one, a cooling DIY Lavender oil spritz can work wonders. In a sterile spray bottle, combine 4 tablespoons organic, pure Aloe Vera juice, 2 tablespoons of filtered water, and 10 -12 drops of Lavender oil with 2 tablespoons of nutrient-rich Jojoba oil. Shake well and spritz onto sunburns or other skin irritations.
Aloe Vera is an ultra rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that nourish and protect the skin. Its use in a hydrating spritz can reduce acne and the unpleasant symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and rashes.
Summary
There are countless uses for essential oils that can help ease the symptoms of many health conditions and provide relief in conjunction with other therapies. Before you reach for a store bought cream, experiment with what Mother Nature gifted us, the natural flower and plant extracts.*
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ORDER SUBSCRIPTION BOX: You'll receive PETA Vegan and Cruelty-Free essential oils plus some exclusive extras delivered bi-monthly or quarterly right to your front door. Experiment with new oils, heal yourself naturally and replenish your aromatherapy collection right in the comfort of your home.
*DISCLAMIER: Before trying anything new, it is always advisable that you first check with your GP to see if you may be allergic to any of the oils or remedies suggested. This blog post does not replace the care and advice of your treating physical or health practitioner. When in doubt, check it out.
Health + happiness,
Emma Lisa xx
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