Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for their therapeutic properties. Essential oils are extracted from plant material including flowers, leaves and bark. They are the ‘essence’ of the plant and they can help to promote physical health and wellbeing.
They can be used in a variety of ways including inhalation, massage and in the bath. Two popular oils are lavender and peppermint, which are both useful for some common summer experiences:
To refresh and cool – add one drop each of peppermint and lavender oil to a foot bath to cleanse and refresh tired, hot feet or add one drop of peppermint and five drops of lavender to a full bath to refresh your whole body
For refreshment on the go – make up a small spray bottle with water and one drop each of peppermint and lavender oil and spritz onto face, neck and chest as needed. You can even keep it in the fridge for extra cooling power!
Natural insect repellant – apply a blended solution of one drop of peppermint oil into 10ml (2 tsp) carrier oil such as coconut or grapeseed oil and rub onto any exposed areas before going outside
If you do get a bite or sting – apply one drop of lavender oil directly onto the bite/sting to reduce inflammation and to promote healing
To treat mild sunburn – apply a blended solution of one drop of peppermint oil and five drops of lavender into 10ml (2 tsp) carrier oil such as coconut or an unscented body lotion and apply gently to affected areas.
To ease travel sickness – put a couple of drops of peppermint oil on a tissue and inhale as needed
Please note that essential oils are highly concentrated and all except lavender need to be diluted in a carrier oil or unscented body lotion before being applied to the skin. If your skin is sensitive do a patch test before applying to a larger area. It is also important to use good quality oils such as those from Neals Yard Remedies which are 100% pure and unadulterated.
Peppermint oil is not suitable for use in pregnancy, or when breastfeeding, or for children under 3 years old.
For further information or to book a free 15 minute consultation please contact me:
Rachel Briggs, MFHT Aromatherapist
Equilibrium Health Centre
16 Station Street, Lewes,
BN7 2DB
01273 470955
info@ equilibrium-clinic.com
equilibrium-clinic.com/Aromatherapy.htm
