Stay Warm with Essential Oils

9:47 AM Posted by jo



Essential oils may be used to increase the circulation to keep the body warm. You can blend the oils in some massage/vegetable oils and apply before you are going outside, or if you are cold inside. A warming foot bath may be easier than taking a bath when cold, add 4-6 drops of essential oils to a small tub and soak your feet. Dispersion is important because most essential oils will float on the surface and may burn the skin. Here are more ideas on how to use essential oils.

Bay, black pepper, cinnamon, ginger, eucalyptus, pine, rosemary, thyme, peppermint have traditionally been used. Black pepper and cinnamon should be used in low dilutions only and eucalyptus should not be applied to the face of children.

Chilblains
Chilblains are reddish, blue discolorations of the skin and accompanied by swelling affecting parts of the body exposed to cold. Children are more prone to chilblains on their feet in winter. Poor circulation increases it.

According to Battaglia, rubefacient oils will help stimulate the local circulation and can be used if the skin is unbroken. He says the most effective oils are ginger, nutmeg, black pepper and Spanish marjoram. Battaglia recommends to use a 3% dilution and massage the affected area. These oils are stronger and caution must be used. Baths and massage with lemon and rosemary are also recommended.

Please refer to the safety post


Stay warm!




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Johanna is an aromatherapist and  she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 

Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.



Sources:
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd


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