You might be thinking, “Isn’t castor oil known for its laxative properties?” You’re not wrong, but castor oil has had numerous uses for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, for example, castor oil was used to treat eye irritation and induce labor in pregnancy. Nowadays, you can commonly see castor oil in skin and hair care applications, particularly because it has incredibly moisturizing properties. 

What Is Castor Oil?

Extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, castor oil is a vegetable oil that must go through processing for safe usage. The reason for that is because the seeds, castor beans, contain high levels of ricin, which is a toxic enzyme. Ricin is removed during processing, making it safe for people to use. Nowadays, castor oil is a common ingredient in many lotions, makeup products, and cleansers as a humectant, hydrating agent, and moisturizer. Continue reading to learn how using castor oil benefits facial skin. 

May Reduce Fungal Infection

In a 2013 study, researchers aimed to determine the antimicrobial activity of different natural extracts against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalic in root canals. The results indicated that castor oil was able to significantly reduce the number of CFU of the tested bacteria. Candida albicans is the fungus that can cause nail fungus, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch. 

May Soothe Sunburn

According to anecdotal evidence, the moisturizing properties of castor oil may soothe the irritation and pain of a sunburn. Researchers believe that the anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil are responsible for this ability. 

Exhibits Moisturizing Qualities

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids, which work to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. It acts as a humectant, creating a barrier on the surface of dry skin to help lock in moisture. In doing so, castor oil can help prevent moisture from evaporating from the skin. Skin and hair care manufacturers add castor oil to beauty products for this reason. It’s also added to these products as an emollient to promote hydration. Because castor oil is thick, you may want to dilute it in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil, prior to applying it to the face. 

Can Help Soothe Inflamed Skin

One study found that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil helped reduce inflammation in mice. Researchers observed similar effects in guinea pigs. Although gels containing ricinoleic acid can reduce inflammation, more human studies are needed to fully understand the scope of castor oil’s ability to soothe inflammation.

May Exhibit Antibacterial Properties

According to scientific studies, castor oil contains analgesic, antihistamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. A study from 2016 aimed to determine if castor oil exhibited antibacterial activity. Study authors noted that the protein from castor seeds contained antibacterial and anti-proliferative properties, inhibiting the growth of S. aureus, which causes acne. 

How To Use Castor Oil

As mentioned earlier, you can incorporate castor oil in various creams, lotions, or oil combinations. Because it is thick, you may want to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it on your face. Alternatively, you can dip a cotton ball in castor oil and gently dab it on the face and neck. In circular motions, gently massage the areas of application for three to five minutes before washing your face with a mild cleanser. 

Risk Factors Of Castor Oil Use On The Face

When testing any new oil on the skin, you run the risk of irritation. One study found that undiluted castor oil caused severe irritation on rabbit skin, while only causing mild irritation on rat and guinea pig skin. In human trials, castor oil wasn’t found as a skin irritant. That said, people with sensitive skin or occupational dermatoses (a form or skin inflammation) may experience skin irritation. Castor oil may also cause eye irritation and discomfort if it gets in your eye, so be careful when using castor oil on the face. A few tips to follow include:

• Always do a patch test: This rule applies to any new oil or skin care product you have concerns about. Test a small amount of the oil on your hand or arm and allow it to sit for 24 hours to see if you have a reaction.
• Check the label: The preservatives in castor oil may cause irritation. Always read the label to check the ingredients, as not all oils are created equal. Choose oils that are cold-pressed organic without any additives.

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There are too many creams to choose from these days! From body butters and facial creams to anti-aging serums and more, it can be hard to find exactly what works for you and your skin. If you are looking to help reduce wrinkles and fine lines, there are some essential ingredients to look out for. By that, we mean that you should seek out certain ingredients and also avoid others. 

When you choose an anti-aging cream, the goal is to find ingredients that nourish the skin in many different ways. Ideally, these ingredients should help your skin retain moisture, provide anti-inflammatory properties, and improve overall complexion. Continue reading to learn about some of the featured ingredients in the DIY anti-aging night cream that contribute to more youthful skin.

Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil, or rosehip seed oil, is pressed from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant. It contains a wide variety of essential fatty acids, including linoleic and linolenic acids, which work to keep cell walls strong so they don’t lose water. If there is one thing to know about beauty, it is that hydration is necessary for soft, supple skin. Rosehip oil also contains vitamin A, which is necessary for collagen production. It also inhibits the creation of MMP-1, an enzyme that breaks down collagen. Some research indicates that rosehip oil’s antioxidants help combat visible sun damage, and may potentially prevent photo-aging. 

Sweet Almond Oil

As an emollient, sweet almond oil helps soften and smooth the skin, making this oil suitable for those with dry or sensitive skin types. Regular use of sweet almond oil may help reduce inflamed or irritated skin, which is why it is commonly used among people with eczema or psoriasis. According to research, sweet almond oil encourages collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity. That can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and promote a more overall youthful look.

Lemon Essential Oil

Researchers note that lemon essential oil is one of the top essential oils for reducing wrinkles and other signs of aging. Lemon essential oil reduces the effects of oxidation on the skin, so using it regularly can help fight against premature aging. Environmental pollutants and free radicals damage the skin through oxidation, but the antioxidants in lemon essential oil can help combat this process. Lemon essential oil also helps to remove dead skin cells, a process that contributes to brighter skin. That means that this essential oil may benefit people with dark spots, scars, or hyperpigmentation.

Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium essential oil exhibits strong antibacterial properties that help the body in different ways. The antibacterial properties may help accelerate the recovery from mild burns, skin infections, and other skin ailments. Scientists note that geranium essential oil is a very effective anti-aging agent. Not only does it improve blood circulation, but it also offers impressive antioxidant activity that helps protect the skin from sun damage. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and has the ability to encourage health cell growth in the skin and hair. Some groups, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, may be sensitive to this essential oil and should avoid it. 

DIY Anti-Aging Night Cream

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 1 tablespoon rosehip oil
• 1/2 tablespoon cocoa butter wafers (unrefined)
• 1/2 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 25 drops lemon essential oil
• 12 drops geranium essential oil
• 5 drops carrot seed essential oil
• 1/4 cup filtered water

Instructions:

• Add the sweet almond oil, rosehip oil, cocoa butter, and beeswax pellets to a medium sized glass bowl. Place this bowl on top of a saucepan with a few inches of water to create a makeshift double boiler. 
• Place this over medium heat and stir occasionally until all of the ingredients have fully melted and combined. 
• Remove from heat and pour in the vitamin E oil and essential oils, stirring slowly as you add them in. 
• Either pour the mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer or add it to a mixing bowl. Place in the fridge for 10 minutes to cool. 
• Remove the bowl from the fridge and decide whether you want to use a stand mixer or use an electric hand mixer to whip it until it becomes a thick cream. If using a stand mixer, make sure to use the whisk attachment. Start whisking slowly and then increase the speed. 
• Spoon the mixture into a clean glass jar and apply to the face, preferably at night after you cleanse.

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As the body’s largest organ, the skin provides a physical barrier that protects you from the outside world. If the skin isn’t functioning optimally, you may notice irregular or unpleasant symptoms, including pimples, lumps, bumps, and infections. You may not need to worry about some symptoms, while others may be cause for concern. Some may even require medical treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening. 

Underarm bumps, for example, are one such symptom that can be quite annoying. There are several cases to these bumps, so understanding how they came to be is integral to getting rid of them. To get to the root cause of symptoms and find the right course of action to take care of the issue, continue reading. 

Acne

If you have had acne before, you know that it typically occurs on the face, chest, back, and arms. Those little blemishes can rear their heads under the arms too, according to dermatologists. Acne has several causes, the most common of which include clogged hair follicles, excess oil, skin inflammation, or bacteria. Because the armpits have oil glands, you may see blemishes in those areas. Dermatologists recommend seeking out washes with active ingredients that fight acne. If you cannot clear up underarm pimples with an acne wash, a topic cream or oral medication may be necessary. 

Ingrown Hairs

Certain cultures, especially here in the United States, have normalized getting rid of body hair. If you shave, wax, or move your armpit hair in other ways, you increase the risk of ingrown hairs. Commonly associated with shaving, ingrown hairs, or razor bumps, resemble small pimples. As the hair grows between shaves, the hair shaft can curl back and penetrate the skin. That causes red, irritated skin and the pimple-like appearance. Although anyone who shaves can experience ingrown hairs, they are more common in people with curly or coarse hair. You can click here to learn about a lot of home remedies for razor bumps, which tend to clear up on their own. In some instances, you may need to treat ingrown hairs with dermatologist-recommended products. Word to the shavers out there: replace your blades because shaving with dull blades can easily cause ingrown hairs. 

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

The what now? Commonly known as HS, hidradenitis suppurativa is a lesser-known cause of underarm bumps. This commonly occurs where skin touches skin, making the armpits a prime spot for the issue to occur. HS also goes by acne inversa, which can be mistaken for acne, even though it is not a type of acne. The underarm bumps are similar to lumps, but they can appear painful and drain pus, according to experts. Failure to treat them can result in scarring. HS is a chronic skin condition and there is no cure, unfortunately. Consult your dermatologist to determine the best course of action to take, i.e. antibacterial creams, oral antibiotics, or medical cleansers.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

If you notice a lump or swollen area in your armpit area, you may have swollen lymph nodes. The lymphatic system’s primary functions are to filter out foreign substances and fight off infection. You have hundreds of lymph nodes throughout the body, some of which are under your arms. Swollen lymph nodes in the underarm area can cause bumps or lumps, which you may be able to move with your fingers. There is always an underlying cause to swollen lymph nodes, as they don’t swell up on their own. Certain cancers, autoimmune disorders, and medications can cause lymph nodes to swell up. Because swollen lymph nodes are common, they aren’t always cause for concern. Your immune system may not be in its best working order and the swelling will calm down once it fights off the infection. Should swollen lymph nodes persist, especially if they are hard or tender to the touch, you may want to consult your healthcare professional.

Folliculitis

If you suspect that acne is the cause of your underarm bumps but the pimples don’t go away with over-the-counter treatments, folliculitis may be the culprit. Folliculitis is a common skin infection of the hair follicles, and the pus-filled bumps resemble acne. Bacteria can get into damaged hair follicles and cause folliculitis bumps, which mimic ingrown hairs. Hair follicles are easily damaged by shaving, wearing tight clothing that causes friction, or spending too much time in sweaty clothes after a workout. In mild cases, folliculitis will go away on its own. You can apply a warm compress to your underarms several times per day to help accelerate hair follicle recovery. You can also experiment with peroxide washes or antibacterial treatments, should folliculitis persist.

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Lemon balm is a relaxing, calming herb loved by bees and humans alike. It is a common ingredient in stress-reducing creams or supplements that aid sleep and rejuvenation. As a relative of the mint family, lemon balm has dense green leaves that emit a fresh lemon aroma. It is a lovely addition to any herb garden and complements other shrubs and flowers. If you have good soil and sunlight, lemon balm will grow easily!

How Does Lemon Balm Benefit The Skin?

Rich in caffeic and ferulic acids, both of which are antioxidants, lemon balm can help neutralize free radicals on the skin. Free radicals, which are commonly created by pollution, are oxidizing agents that cause damage to skin cells. If left unchecked, these free radicals can cause premature aging, including fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles. Creams or salves that contain lemon balm work to increase circulation, while simultaneously tightening the skin. 

Lemon balm exhibits antibacterial properties that work to cleanse pores and reduce the frequency of blackheads. Some anecdotal reports indicate that it may aid healing, being a natural remedy for insect stings, bites, cuts, and small wounds. Lemon balm contains rosmarinic acid, which works to benefit oily skin by reducing oil production. In turn, that effect may help reduce acne breakouts. 

What Does The Research Say?

An in-vitro study that used lemon balm oil found it to be very effective against a series of human cancer cell lines. Lemon balm oil exhibits antioxidant activity, evidenced by a reduction of 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH). Another study from 2004 found that lemon balm may offer anti-tumor properties, but more research is necessary to determine this. 

Lemon balm works to relax the blood vessels and offers antiviral activity. Historically, Greek and Latin cultures used lemon balm to calm nerves and treat fevers. In America, the Cherokee tribe used lemon balm to remedy digestive disorders and mitigate stress. Even today, lemon balm offers therapeutic properties that help soothe wounds, anxiety, acne, eczema, and even chickenpox. 

What Is Lemon Balm Oil?

Lemon balm can also be found in oil form, but you can make your own lemon balm oil if you have the time. Please note that lemon balm oil is not the same as lemon balm essential oil, which is made by distilling lemon balm leaves. To make lemon balm oil, you have to crush the leaves and slowly heat them in a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or fractionated coconut oil. This process can take a couple weeks before it is ready to use, and the longer you wait, the better. If you don’t have the time, though, you can buy lemon balm oil for the following DIY salve. 

DIY Lemon Balm Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon candelilla wax
• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 tsp lemon balm oil (not essential oil)

Instructions:

• Melt the wax with the jojoba oil and olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the wax is melted, you can stir in the lemon balm oil. 
• Transfer this mixture to a metal storage tin and allow it to cool before placing the lid on. Use as needed, but do not use lemon balm if you have thyroid issues.

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Burdock root contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects. Burdock root might also lower blood sugar! You can consume it in a tea, or you can fry, boil, or saute’it.

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When the weather is cold and the air is dry, it is very common to experience dry, itchy skin. This is especially true if you run the heater in your house during the winter. Staying warm is essential, but transitioning from the cold, dry air outside to the warm, dry air inside contributes to itching and dryness. That’s why moisturizers are necessary, but using the right one will change how you feel in your own skin. 

If you regularly moisturize, you probably know that you use more during the winter. Besides the outdoor and indoor air, the heavier clothing you wear in the winter can cause significant chafing. Maybe you reapply your moisturizer, only to feel dry again in an hour. Fortunately, there is a remedy in the form of the DIY body oil recipe in this article. Using a body oil in place of your typical lotion or moisturizer will help soothe dry or itchy skin and make your skin feel silky smooth. How does this DIY body oil do that? The ingredients nourish your skin and help it retain water, and you can learn more about how they do that below. 

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil differs from extra virgin coconut oil in that it goes through a process that makes it remain liquid at room temperature. Extra virgin coconut oil is usually solid at room temperature, unless it is in a warm environment. Fractionated coconut oil is made by separating different types of fats in regular coconut oil, and two medium-chain fatty acids remain. It is one of the most versatile carrier oils available and absorbs quickly into the skin. It helps to seal moisture into the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. 

Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E oil exhibits numerous health benefits for the hair and skin. It is especially beneficial for people with dry skin, itchy skin, eczema, or psoriasis. Derived from vitamin E, vitamin E oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to lotions, creams, or gels. It exhibits antioxidant properties that may fight inflammation and other properties that enhance moisture. Vitamin E oil is a common additive to moisturizers because it helps prevent dry, flaky skin. Some studies suggest that vitamin E oil provides temporary relief from itching caused by dry skin. Additionally, one study suggests that topical application of vitamin E oil may improve psoriasis symptoms. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Dry skin can overproduce sebum, the skin’s natural oil, to compensate for the dryness. That can lead to clogged pores and blemishes. Lavender essential oil exhibits antibacterial properties that can help kill acne-causing bacteria that may inhabit your pores. It also works to moisturize the skin and is non-comedogenic for pores. It is also an anti-inflammatory superstar, working to soothe irritated or reddened skin from the sun. 

Tea Tree Oil

Dry skin is no laughing matter and it can increase the risk of cracking, flaking, or even bleeding if you scratch too much. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe dry skin. The best way to enhance moisture with tea tree oil is to mix it with a carrier oil and then apply it to the skin. Tea tree oil is very potent, so don’t apply it directly to the skin, as that may cause further irritation. 

DIY Body Oil With Lavender

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fractionated coconut oil
• 40 drops tea tree oil
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
• 8-ounce jar with lid

Instructions:

• Pour the fractionated coconut oil into a mixing cup and then add the tea tree oil and vitamin E oil. 
• Finally, drop in the lavender essential oil and stir well to combine the oils. Pour this mixture into a clean eight-ounce jar and screw on the lid. 
• If you have a little left over, treat your skin well right away!
• This is a wonderful body oil to use right after you shower. Make sure to shake up the oil before you massage it gently into the skin while your skin is still moist.

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If you want your skin to glow, you have to treat it right. The matcha clay face mask in this article is a simple, all-natural mask that works to detoxify the skin. Not only does that help remove impurities from your pores, but it also helps the skin look more radiant. Can you go wrong with nourishing ingredients like matcha, French green claw, kaolin clay, honey powder, aloe vera powder, and more?

This face mask helps to absorb excess oil and deep clean the skin. Matcha, spirulina, and goat milk powder help to calm and revive the skin with nourishing vitamins and minerals. Other ingredients help trap moisture into the skin and give it an immediate glow. Whether you have acne prone skin, oily skin, sensitive skin, or dry skin, this mask is highly suitable. Continue reading to learn about some of the standout ingredients. 

Aloe Vera Gel Powder

Aloe vera gel is a natural humectant, which attracts moisture from the air and supplies it to your skin. By deeply moisturizing the skin, you strengthen your skin’s elasticity, helping it appear smoother and more supple. If you notice that facial skin feels dry, this is an ingredient your skin requires.

Spirulina Powder

Spirulina is a notable superfood that provides the body with protein, thiamin, copper, niacin, iron, and more. It is also a great source of antioxidants, which help contribute to a fresh, clear complexion. Spirulina helps nourish the skin, promoting cell growth and regeneration with its amino acid content. 

Matcha Powder

Made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, matcha exhibits impressive antioxidant activity. The leaves dry naturally, so no heating is involved, which better preserves their nutrients. Matcha also offers antibacterial and antibiotic properties, which help rejuvenate skin cells, promote smooth skin, and reduce fine lines. 

Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay has a fine texture, so it is very gentle on the skin. It is less absorbing than French green clay, which we will discuss next. If your skin is dry or sensitive, double the amount of kaolin clay and omit the French green clay from this recipe. 

French Green Clay

Rich in trace minerals, French green clay works to nourish the skin, clear impurities, and absorb excess oils. Studies show that this clay benefits people with acne because it helps to remove blackheads and germs in pores. It also tightens pores and promotes overall skin rejuvenation. The green color is attributed to the centuries-old plant matter, from which French green clay is made. It also contains iron oxide, which helps draw out toxins from the skin. 

Honey Powder

Honey exhibits antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help soothe inflammation. The antioxidants in honey support cell regeneration and strengthen the skin. Just like aloe vera, honey is a natural humectant, so it helps trap moisture into the skin and add shine to your complexion. 

DIY Matcha Clay Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 1.4 ounces French green clay
• 1.4 ounces kaolin clay
• 0.7 ounces goat milk powder
• 0.35 ounces matcha powder
• 0.35 ounces honey powder
• 0.17 ounces spirulina powder
• 0.04 ounces aloe vera gel powder
• 0.02 ounces allantoin

Instructions:

• First of all, a digital scale to make your life easier. Weigh out the different powders and place them all in a medium-sized mixing bowl. 
• After mixing the powders thoroughly, Pour the mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place. You don’t want this to be exposed to sunlight or a heat source. 
• When ready to use, put two teaspoons of the powder into a small mixing bowl and stir in one teaspoon of water. Continue stirring until you achieve a smooth paste. 
• Using a brush or spatula, apply the mask to your face, making sure to avoid the lips, hairline, eyes, and eyebrows. 
• Rinse with warm water and a washcloth after 10 minutes. You can then apply a toner and moisturizer.

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Besides the deliciously citrusy flavor that lemongrass provides in culinary applications, it also holds tremendous healing power within its fibrous stalks. Lemongrass, specifically lemongrass essential oil, may help relieve muscle pain, kill bacteria, ward off insects, reduce body aches, and more. Lemongrass essential oil also has a place as an ingredient in cosmetics, offering a wonderful fragrance and properties that support the skin.

What Is Lemongrass Essential Oil?

Lemongrass belongs to the grass family of Poaceae and it is also a Cymbopogon. It grows in dense clumps that can exceed six feet in height and four feet in width. Native to tropical regions, including India, Oceania, and Southeast Asia, lemongrass has been used in many medicinal applications. Both African and South American cultures have also used lemongrass to make tea. 

Lemongrass essential oil comes from the leaves or grasses of the lemongrass plant. The oil exhibits a lemony smell that is stimulating, relaxing, soothing, and balancing. Depending on the geographical origin, the chemical composition may change. Lemongrass essential oil contains alcohols, hydrocarbon terpenes, ketones, esters, and aldehydes. It can be a great source of nutrients, some of which include vitamins A & C, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese, copper, iron, and folate. Studies show that it acts particularly on the connective tissue, where immune and structural functions meet. Learn more about lemongrass’ health benefits below. 

Skin Health

Although you cannot directly apply lemongrass essential oil to the skin, it does offer skin-soothing properties. A 2017 study tested the effects of lemongrass essential oil on pre-inflamed human dermal fibroblast. Study authors found that lemongrass essential oil exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in human cells. Not only did that study confirm it is a good candidate for treating inflammatory skin conditions, but another study also found that it is promising for replacing synthetic compounds in the cosmeceutical industry. Lemongrass essential oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and astringent properties, all of which work to sterilize pores and contribute to glowing skin.

May Reduce Stress And Anxiety

One study exposed a group of test subjects to an anxiety-causing situation and had them smell the scent of lemongrass essential oil. This group, unlike the controlled groups, experienced a decrease in anxiety and subjective tension after administration. This is because lemongrass essential oil exhibits a mild, calming aroma that may relieve anxiety and irritability. You can drop a few drops of lemongrass essential oil in a diffuser to help calm down, or drink lemongrass tea to help reduce stress. 

Stomach Aid

For centuries, lemongrass has been a popular treatment for stomach issues, including gastric ulcers and gastritis. One research study from 2012 found that lemongrass essential oil protected stomachs in animal subjects from the gastric damaging effects of aspirin and ethanol. The conclusion of that study was that lemongrass essential oil could serve as a lead compound for the future development of therapies that combat nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy.

Bacteria Killer

One study from 2012 that tested the antibacterial properties of lemongrass essential oil, testing microorganisms with a disk diffusion method. Study authors added lemongrass essential oil to a staph infection and saw that it was able to disrupt the infection as an antibacterial agent. The citral and limonene content in lemongrass essential oil can either inhibit or kill the growth of fungi and bacteria. That means that it may help in the treatment of infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other types of fungal infections. 

Reduces Inflammation

According to in vitro research, lemongrass essential oil exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory properties when used internally and externally. Considering that inflammation is at the root of many health conditions, this is exciting news. Other studies also confirm the anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass essential oil. These studies explored the potential anti-hypertensive effects of lemongrass essential oil, uncovering a lot of evidence that indicates potent anti-inflammatory activity. 

Hair Health

Researchers note that lemongrass essential oil can help strengthen hair follicles, which is great news if you suffer from hair loss. Dilute a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into jojoba oil, or another carrier oil, and massage a small amount into your scalp for two minutes. This may also help relieve irritated or itchy scalp. Studies show that lemongrass essential oil may offer anti-dandruff properties, and may help leave your hair shiny and odor-free.

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When you are sick, there is nothing you want more than to just feel better. If there was a magic pill that automatically made you feel better after coming down with a cold, you would take it. Instead, you do what you can, taking vitamins or over-the-counter medications to boost immunity and get over the cold. You may also experiment with different home remedies, some of which help relieve symptoms while others don’t.

Sometimes, you blow your nose so much and cannot believe that you have more mucus to expel. Blowing can cause headaches and general sinus pain, not to mention puffy eyes or irritation around the nostrils. In order to stop your nose from leaking like a faulty faucet, should you consume chicken soup and heat packs? What is fiction and which home remedies actually help you drain your sinuses? Continue reading to find out.

Nasal Irrigation

Very effective at relieving nasal congestion or irritation, nasal irrigation involves flushing out the nasal passages with a saline solution. You may be aware of the neti pot, which is an inexpensive device that looks like a small teapot. You can make your own saline solution for the neti pot, squeeze bottle, or bulb syringe with the following steps:

• Mix 3 teaspoons of iodine-free salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda to create the dry mixture.
• Dissolve 1 teaspoon of the dry mixture into 1 cup of distilled, sterilized, or filtered water. 

In order to irrigate your sinuses, you first want to stand over a sink or basin. Pour, spray, or squirt a liberal amount of the solution into your right nostril while tilting your head so that your left ear is parallel to the ground. The saline solution should flow out of the other nostril. Do this to each nostril to help flush away any bacteria or irritants. 

Warm And Cold Compresses

Whether you have a cold or sore muscles, alternating between warm and cold compresses can benefit your situation. Lay back and apply a warm compress across your nose, cheeks, and forehead for three minutes. Remove the compress and replace it with a cold compress for 30 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times to complete a total of three cycles. You can repeat this process between two to six times per day. 

Manuka Honey

There is a large body of evidence highlighting the health benefits of honey. It exhibits antibacterial properties and can help soothe sore throat. Manuka honey is a special type of honey that has many therapeutic uses. Researchers note that Manuka honey exhibits powerful antibacterial properties that may help get rid of a bacterial infection. Try adding Manuka honey to your next cup of tea if you have sinus congestion or a sore throat. 

Hydrate With Lots Of Water

The reason that you want to drink more water than you otherwise would is to help thin mucus and drain your sinuses. Fluids and humidity can lubricate your sinuses, making it easier to breathe. Hot beverages like herbal tea or hot water with lemon can also aid your hydration efforts. Hot beverages also provide the benefit of steam, which may aid breathing and soothe sore throat. 

Steam

Steam works to relieve congestion by loosening the mucus in your nasal passages. You can add essential oils to a diffuser if you have that available to you. Otherwise, you can pour boiling water into a heat-safe bowl and add a few drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree essential oils to the water. Lean over the bowl and drape a towel over your head so that it falls all around you, creating a steam tent. Breathe deeply, in through the nose and out through the mouth, to help clear your sinuses.

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Don’t you love when you can make something that is both practical and beneficial? This lemon and peppermint hand scrub is exactly that! It works to exfoliate your hands and leaves them feeling refreshed and incredibly soft. Want to know the best part? You can whip up a batch of this scrub in about five minutes!

If you like DIY homemade skin care products, then this is a recipe you are going to love. It is much simpler to make than a whipped body butter or skin salve, so it is a great entry point to DIY beauty products. Yes, it is easy to make, but what is the purpose or need for a hand scrub? You regularly wash your hands, which can dry them out, especially if you use very hot water. To avoid cracking or dryness, you want to exfoliate them to remove dead skin and hydrate them at the same time. We’ll explain how the hand scrub does that by highlighting some of the standout ingredients and what they do for your skin.

Jojoba Oil

The molecular structure of jojoba oil is nearly identical to the composition of sebum, an oil that the skin naturally produces. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds, vitamins, and antioxidants that help to nourish the skin and fight free radicals. Unlike other oils, jojoba oil is actually a wax ester, so the skin absorbs it easily without conflict. Research shows that jojoba oil can be effective in easing or treating common skin conditions like acne, rash, dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Sweet Almond Oil

Believe it or not, sweet almond oil offers mild protection for ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage. It contributes to softer, smoother looking skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, due to the vitamin E content. Additionally, sweet almond oil contains fatty acids that help the skin retain moisture, helping soothe chapped, dry, or irritated skin. 

Fine Sea Salt

This is the exfoliating ingredient in the hand scrub. Sea salt works to cleanse, heal, and nourish the skin, but make sure that it is finely ground. Coarsely ground salts or Kosher salts can be harsh on delicate skin. If you know that your skin is sensitive, consider swapping this ingredient for brown sugar, which is a wonderfully gentle exfoliant. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains a number of antioxidant compounds, a couple of which have demonstrated an ab slitty to kill certain bacteria. Terpinen-4-ol is one of the compounds in tea tree oil that increases white blood cell activity. That activation helps the immune system fight off foreign invaders. The germ-fighting properties makes tea tree oil a valuable natural remedy for people with fungal skin conditions because it works to kill the infection and promote healing.

Lemon Essential Oil

Not only does lemon essential oil smell marvelous and zesty, but it also exhibits powerful antibacterial properties. Studies show that lemon essential oil has properties that may help clear up the skin by killing harmful viruses and bacteria. Plus, it reduces inflammation and the smell of it may help you fight exhaustion. 

Lemon And Peppermint Antibacterial Hand Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fine sea salt
• 3 tablespoons sweet almond oil
• 3 tablespoons pure coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 tablespoon liquid castile soap
• 1/2 teaspoon tea tree oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)
• 5-10 drops lemon essential oil
• Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

• In a small mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients and then spoon the mixture into a jar or desired storage container with a lid. 
• When it comes time to use the hand scrub, scoop a small amount into the palm of your hand and gently rub it all over for 20 seconds. 
• Wash your hands with lukewarm water to rinse away. Use once or twice daily and avoid introducing water into the scrub container. 
• Store the scrub in a cool, dry place for up to a couple months. If the scrub starts to smell rancid, then it is time to throw it out and make a new batch.

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