Have you been looking for an easy, natural way to nourish your hair, treat dandruff, and reduce itchiness on the scalp? Maybe you want to help prevent split ends or find a treatment that supplies the scalp with beneficial nutrients. Whatever your reason, this peppermint scalp treatment does all of that and more. In this article, we’ll explore how the ingredients in this treatment benefit the hair and scalp. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Not only does peppermint essential oil have a refreshing aroma, but it also has a place in skin and hair care applications. Peppermint essential oil exhibits antimicrobial, analgesic, insecticidal, pesticidal, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilating properties. Some people have used it to counteract hair loss because it contains menthol. Menthol is a natural vasodilator that improves blood flow to the scalp. In most cases, hair loss occurs due to starved blood flow to hair follicles. By increasing circulation to the scalp, you could potentially improve hair growth. It may also strengthen strands and prevent split ends by hydrating and nourishing hair, which helps reduce breakage. 

Jojoba Oil

Due to its oily composition, jojoba oil can act as a natural moisturizer for hair, conditioning and protecting it against dryness and breakage. Because it can moisturize the scalp, it may act as a natural dandruff remedy. Additional evidence shows that Jojoba oil is a staple ingredient in many shampoos and conditioners. Its inclusion is for micro emulsion, which basically means that it assists in carrying the active ingredients of the product to where they need to go, i.e. the hair and scalp. The oil also has a reputation as a hair growth stimulant, but that is not backed by research. One study tested jojoba oil for hair growth and it was less effective than minoxidil and peppermint essential oil.

Coconut Oil

Used topically to hydrate the scalp, coconut oil may help prevent dandruff and promote hair growth. There is some evidence that the lauric acid in coconut oil may protect the hair against protein loss. Dyes, bleach, some shampoos, and various styling products can cause hair to become dull and fragile due to keratin loss. Lauric acid’s unique structure allows it to be absorbed into the hair shaft, which prevents moisture loss and encourages stronger hair. Additionally, some evidence indicates that coconut oil may help you manage a dry, itchy scalp. A small study found that applying coconut oil to the scalp had anti-fungal benefits. Researchers also noted that coconut oil may help combat scalp yeast infections and reduce scalp flaking. 

DIY Peppermint Scalp Treatment

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1 teaspoon castor oil
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil
• 3 drops tea tree oil

Instructions:

• Spoon the coconut oil into a small bowl and microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to melt it. Once melted, mix in the jojoba oil and castor oil. 
• Stir in the peppermint essential oil and tea tree oil. These oils give the treatment a lovely aroma, but they also do wonders for reducing itchiness and dryness on the scalp. 
• Pour the mixture into a dropper bottle and use when ready. You can apply the oil mixture directly to the scalp, gently massaging it in circular motions for three to five minutes to increase the absorption and stimulate circulation. 
• Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, covering your hair with a shower cap or towel to protect the hair and scalp during the process. 
• Use a natural shampoo to wash the treatment out. Ideally, use this treatment once or twice per week to keep your scalp healthy and fabulous.  

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You’ve got your beach bag, cooler, and bathing suit ready, but what about essential oils? Believe it or not, the beach isn’t the only thing that can offer an uplifting and refreshing experience during the summer. Summery essential oils offer cooling properties that make them ideal during warmer months. Some of the essential oils in this article even offer protection against insects, sun exposure, and overheating, in addition to supporting your skin, energy, and mood. 

Most of the summer essential oils offer anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antimicrobial properties. They assist in helping you stay balanced during hot and humid weather. They tend to have floral, citrusy, and herbaceous aromas, making them perfect for diffusing in the home. You can also use them in DIY body sprays, apply them in diluted form to the skin, or add them to your summer skin or hair care routines. 

Spearmint Essential Oil

Different to peppermint essential oil but still similar, spearmint essential oil offers a cooling sensation that may help relieve tension, improve focus, and freshen the home. It has a milder aroma than peppermint essential oil, but still gives off an uplifting, minty scent. Spearmint essential oil is great for those who are sensitive to strong oils. Some studies found that it may soothe headaches, freshen breath, and support digestion.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedarwood essential oil has a woody aroma that helps to calm the nervous system. Many people value it during the summer because it exhibits potent insect-repelling abilities. It may also help with oily or acne-prone skin, and even lends itself to nighttime diffusions to promote better sleep. 

Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella is a well-known plant that helps repel bugs, especially mosquitos. The essential oil is very energizing and deodorizing, making it a great oil for outdoor gatherings. Citronella is a must-have during summer, particularly if you want to spend your evenings outdoors in the summer. You can use it in a diffuser to help repel mosquitos, or even add it to homemade body sprays. 

Citrus Essential Oils

Known for their uplifting and invigorating properties, citrus essential oils can help boost energy, promote positivity, and provide a zesty scent. Citrus oils, including lemon, orange, and grapefruit, exhibit antimicrobial and detoxifying properties, helping support digestion and immunity, two things that are challenged by extreme heat. Lemon essential oil may offer relief from nausea and assist with skin care management. Grapefruit essential oil, similar to lemon, offers antibacterial properties and may help reduce stress and sugar cravings. Finally, orange essential oil is a great one to use during summer, due to its immune-boosting effects. You can also add it to DIY non-toxic cleaning products. 

Tea Tree Oil

Offering antibacterial and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil is highly useful for minor cuts, scrapes or bug bites that occur during summer. It also exhibits anti-fungal activity, making it excellent for managing skin irritation, athlete’s foot, and acne. You can add tea tree oil to natural insect repellent recipes, foot sprays, scalp treatments, or DIY deodorant. 

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender essential oil is commonly used to promote sleep, as its aroma helps to calm the mind and body. It can also help soothe sunburns, insect bites, and minor cuts. Lavender is a highly useful and versatile essential oil that shines during summer. The anti-inflammatory properties make it helpful for calming sensitive or irritated skin. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Got a little annoying cricket chirping away outside your window at night? Time to bust out the peppermint essential oil! Crickets despise peppermint’s aroma, so you can place a few drops in your windowsills to deter them. Peppermint essential oil offers cooling effects, making it great for hot summer days. It may help lower body temperature when applied (diluted of course) to the skin and may soothe sunburns and heat rashes. From an aromatic standpoint, peppermint essential oil boosts alertness and may help relieve headaches. 

Bergamot Essential Oil

Bergamot essential oil exhibits a bright, citrusy aroma that may uplift your mood and reduce stress. It also supports emotional balance, making it great for summer anxiety or emotional burnout. Additionally, bergamot essential oil may help reduce the appearance of blemishes and balance oily skin. Avoid sun exposure after application due to bergamot’s photosensitivity, just like citrus essential oils.

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Entering the summer months is a wonderful time of year. You get to take vacations, enjoy fun in the sun, and explore in nature. Even if you don’t do all of those things and decide to enjoy grilling in the backyard, you run the risk of getting attacked by various bugs. Warmer weather means that pests become more active, especially as grass grows. Summer pests are drawn to grass and flowers, and the increased moisture means that they have more access to water. 

Common Summer Bugs

Mosquitoes are the problem children of summer, especially if you live in a humid climate. They hide in tall grass, so experts recommend keeping grass short (no more than three inches high) to help keep them at bay. Additionally, trim bushes, hedges, and plants to reduce the likelihood of mosquitoes ruining your summer. Plus, mosquitoes can expose you to a variety of viruses and fever, so do your best to fend them off. 

Besides mosquitoes, ants, wasps, hornets, ticks, and flies thrive during the summer months. Many of these bugs hatch or breed during the summer because of the heat and humidity. The last thing you want is for these pests to ruin your summer plans, so keep an eye out for them and act appropriately. 

Why Use Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated with powerful scents, and bugs tend to not like them. When they get a good whiff of certain essential oils, they tend to steer clear of the area. For example, crickets and ants do not like the smell of peppermint essential oil. Gnats despise lemongrass essential oil, peppermint essential oil, and vanilla extract. You can use one essential oil or a combination to help keep those creepy, crawly, biting pests away. 

Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils act as natural bug repellents for squash bugs, beetles, ants, fleas, spiders, aphids, and whiteflies. Some people even use these two essential oils to help repel mice. Lemongrass essential oil can help repel both flying and crawling pests without harming your plants, animals, or skin. It is especially great at repelling gnats. Rosemary essential oil can help repel flies, fleas, and mosquitoes. It is also a great garden plant to have because it can deter insect larvae, which can easily destroy cucumbers, tomatoes, melons, and even some root vegetables. 

Tea tree oil is another great one for keeping mosquitoes at bay, and even killing mosquitoes. If you already have some mosquito bites, tea tree oil may be great to apply to the area, as long as you dilute it with a carrier oil. Cedarwood essential oil is a powerful tick deterrent, and it’s safe to use for dogs, so long as you dilute it. You can soak dog collars in a cedarwood and water mixture to help keep ticks off them on summer hikes. 

DIY Bug Repellent Lotion Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup cocoa butter
• 1/2 cup shea butter
• 1 cup beeswax
• 30 drops essential oils of choice (pick one or two from the ones we mentioned)

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and beeswax to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. Make sure that there is about an inch or two of water in the bottom of the boiler. 
• Stir the ingredients every so often until fully melted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before adding the essential oils. Mix well to combine.
• Pour the mixture into silicone molds or metal tins and allow the mixture to solidify, either at room temperature or in the fridge to accelerate the process. 
• Once completely solidified, remove the bars from the molds and store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to one year.

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Cracked and chapped lips are not only painful, but also hard to conceal. You do your best effort to make it look like the skin isn’t flaking from your lips, but it may show through, despite your best efforts. Lip balm is a helpful product that can moisturize the skin on your lips, but it is even more beneficial when you have the right ingredients in the product. That is exactly the case for this peppermint elderberry lip balm. 

What Is Lip Balm Essential?

Lip balm is a soft, waxy substance that you can apply to the lips to ease the soreness or burning caused by chapped or cracked lips. The skin on the lips is very thin, so it is more prone to dryness than other areas of the skin. The waxy lip balm, then, essentially creates a protective shield on your lips. This helps keep the lips safe from air, wind, and colder temperatures. 

A lot of people will use lip balm to remedy chapped lips during the wintertime, but lip balm can be used year round. If your lip balm does a good job, then you will not need to apply regularly. The right ingredients promote long-lasting moisture, nourishment, and comfort.

Infusing The Oil With Elderberry 

In order to make this lip balm, you have to infuse the olive oil with dried elderberries and alkanet root powder. This is a powder that is effective for naturally tinting lips. Now, if you do not want this lip balm to tint your lips, you do not have to use it. You can simply use another teaspoon or two of dried elderberries. Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare professional before using products that contain alkanet powder. Traditionally, it is usually not advised. 

Although you can use sunflower oil or jojoba oil, we opted for olive oil, as it is highly nourishing. It is also a great oil for infusing, whether you want to make a lip balm or flavored oil for culinary use. The only thing to keep in mind is that the infusion process takes a couple weeks. Add the elderberries to the oil and keep in a sunny spot, such as the windowsill, for two weeks. 

After the infusion period, strain the dried elderberries and collect the oil in a container. If you store the oil properly, this will keep for about one year. Once you have your infused oil, you are ready to make the lip balm. 

DIY Peppermint Elderberry Lip Balm

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 1/2 tablespoon castor oil
• 1 tablespoon infused olive oil
• 1 teaspoon pomegranate seed oil
• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellet (plus 1 more teaspoon)
• 12 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients (except the essential oil) to a heat-safe glass measuring cup. Place that cup in a small saucepan containing a couple inches of water over medium-low heat. 
• Keep on the stove until all of the ingredients are melted. Stir well to combine and then remove from heat. Add the essential oils once removed from heat. 
• Pour the mixture into lip balm tubs or tins and allow to set at room temperature before putting the lids on. Use when ready.

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A lot of people welcome the warm weather of spring, while others dread the pollen that also arrives. From one morning to the next, people wake up sneezing, develop runny noses, and have itchy eyes. To avoid these miserable allergy symptoms, many people reach for the allergy medication bottle. There is nothing wrong with allergy medication, but some people may prefer to experiment with natural remedies that don’t cause the same unwanted side effects that accompany certain medications. 

If the immune system reacts to something, which may not bother other people, that indicates an allergic reaction. The most common culprits of allergic reactions include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Insect stings
• Food
• Medications
• Pet dander
• Mold spores

Although everyone many not experience the same allergy symptoms, the most common ones are:

• Sneezing
• Itching
• Rashes
• Swelling
• Asthma
• Runny nose
• Dry eyes

Natural Remedies For Allergies

The best natural remedy for allergies, well, is to avoid allergens at all costs, but this isn’t always possible. Allergens, especially pollen, are difficult to avoid during the spring. If your symptoms to certain allergens are relatively mild, you may be able to fight them off with natural remedies. Experiment with the following remedies to see if they help your spring allergies. 

Clear The Air

Dust, dander, and pollen particles can trigger allergy symptoms, and filtering indoor air may help eliminate them from your home. Your best bet is to look for a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter because it can remove 99.97% of problematic airborne particles. Putting a HEPA filter in your bedroom can make a huge difference, especially if you have allergy attacks at night or early morning. Air conditioning may also help because it removes moisture from indoor air, which eliminates mildew growth. 

Saline Nasal Rinse

According to a 2012 review of studies, saline nasal irrigation benefitted both children and adults with allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Flushing the sinuses out with a neti pot or squeeze bottle can help wash away pollen, or other allergens, that may cause allergy symptoms. Studies show that a good saline nasal rinse can provide relief from both allergy symptoms and symptoms of the common cold. 

Vitamins And Supplements

A healthy diet helps encourage optimal immune response, but some people require supplementation to meet daily nutritional requirements. That is where dietary supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, and herbs, come into play. These supplements may help limit inflammation that accompanies allergic reactions. According to health experts, the following supplements may encourage better immune function:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Quercetin
• Stinging nettle (a natural antihistamine)
• Omega-3 fatty acids

Acupuncture

Are you surprised to see acupuncture on this list? Don’t be! Historically, the practice of ancient needling boosted immune function and combatted hay fever. Additionally, a fair amount of research indicates the efficacy of acupuncture for treating symptoms of allergies and sinus disorders. In fact, a 2015 review of studies concluded that acupuncture demonstrated positive results for people with seasonal allergies. 

Use Essential Oils

If you have sinus issues, adding essential oils to a diffuser may help you breathe better, or at least limit the intensity of allergy symptoms. Many people benefit from using eucalyptus oil because it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Others find frankincense essential oil to provide protection against some allergy symptoms. One study found that frankincense essential oil helped fight against perennial allergic rhinitis. A 1998 study found that inhaling the aroma of peppermint essential oil had enough anti-inflammatory effects to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma.

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Isn’t nasal congestion great? No, no it isn’t. In fact, there is nothing you crave more while congested than the ability to breathe in and out without any obstruction. You blow your nose continuously, and yet you still produce more mucus. It’s as if you’ll never run out! 

According to health experts, the average adult experiences two to three colds per year, with each one lasting about a week. Stuffiness is also common during allergy season, especially for those who have more severe allergies. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the common cold, but there are a handful of natural remedies that can promote decongestion. 

In this article, we will cover some great ways to un-stuff your nose. They may not work for everyone, though, so just keep that in mind. Additionally, over-the-counter (OTC) decongestant medications have a similar effect, in that they do not benefit everyone. Some medications can actually increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels. They may also increase the risk of seizure, affect certain heart conditions, and aggravate glaucoma. Additionally, the FDA recently announced that decongestant meds that contain phenylephrine are not effective. That’s why you may want to experiment with one of the following remedies before resorting to OTC decongestants. 

Stay Hydrated

One of the best ways to battle congestion is to stay well hydrated. Increasing your water intake helps to keep mucus thin, making it less likely to clog up your nasal passages. Just make sure that you stick to water or low-calorie drinks, such as herbal tea or seltzer water. Remember that hot drinks can also soothe a sore throat, which commonly accompanies a stuffy nose. Avoid milk, soda, coffee, energy drinks, and alcohol while stuffed up because they can increase mucus buildup. Freshly squeezed fruit juice or smoothies can also aid your hydration efforts. Lastly, lemon water does not hydrate you better than regular water, but if it helps you drink more water then drink it.

Use A Humidifier Or Vaporizer

Humidifiers and vaporizers add moisture to the air in the space where you put them. Health experts note that these devices can be especially beneficial to have in your room while you sleep, especially in colder months when the air is usually drier. A humidifier releases a fine mist into the air, whereas a vaporizer boils water to release steam into the air. When you use a humidifier, aim to use filtered or distilled water and clean the device weekly to avoid buildup. A diffuser can also be beneficial because you can use essential oils that help promote decongestion. Tea tree oil, peppermint essential oil, and eucalyptus essential oil can all help clear your sinuses.

Nasal Irrigation

This is exactly what it sounds like: irrigating your nasal passages. You use a saline solution with a neti pot or nasal irrigation device. A lot of people enjoy this method because it is highly effective at getting rid of mucus buildup. Nasal irrigation works to thin mucus and decrease inflammation, in addition to washing away irritants and allergens in the nostrils. There are a few steps to keep in mind when using these devices, such as:

• Do not use tap water because it can contain microorganisms that can increase the risk of sinus infection. Use distilled or previously boiled water in place of tap water.
• Make sure to follow the instructions carefully in order to avoid incorrect usage. Wash your hands before using it as well. 
• If you develop a fever, headache, or vomiting after using a nasal irrigation device, stop right away and speak to your healthcare professional. These symptoms may indicate infection. 

Steam Inhalation

How does this differ from using a humidifier or vaporizer? Well, inhaling steam from heated water can help moisten the nasal passages and offer short-term relief from congestion. The easiest way to do steam inhalation is by standing in a very hot shower or sitting in a warm bath. You can also pour boiling water into a bowl, hover your face about six inches over the water, and drape a towel over your head and the bowl. This will create a mini steam room for your face and may help clear out your sinuses. Make sure the water is not too hot because you don’t want the steam to burn your face. 

If you want to help promote clearer, easier breathing and expel excess mucus, the following Dherbs herbal supplements may be of interest to you:

• Mucus Formula: An herbal supplement that helps soften and dissolve hardened mucus. It also works to nourish, cleanse, and maintain healthy function of the respiratory and circulatory systems. 
• Sinus Formula: An herbal supplement that is intended to soothe and cleanse the sinuses. It may assist with cleansing irritants and excess mucus from nasal passages, which aids with healthier, normal breathing.

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Essential oils have numerous health benefits and can be incredibly relaxing. Used in both aromatherapy and skin care, essential oils can help you create spa-like experiences in your very own home. Treat your feet right with an invigorating peppermint foot cream and slough away dead skin cells with a DIY sugar scrub. You can even use whipped body butter to establish a smooth skin tone. 

Although the aromatherapy shower mist recipe in this article doesn’t turn back the hands of time, it can transform your shower into a full-on steam room. Spray the mist in your steamy shower and the aromas will transport you to a relaxing oasis. The best part is that you don’t even have to leave your bathroom!

Typically, spa scents are made with a custom blend of essential oils. Because you are making this aromatherapy blend, you can also customize to your liking. If you prefer more eucalyptus essential oil than peppermint essential oil, alter the recipe. You can also use essential oils that help contribute to more alertness and energy to help you get your day started. A relaxing blend of essential oils, including lavender essential oil, may be beneficial for winding down before bed. 

What Is A Shower Mist?

A shower mist is basically a spray that you spritz into the water or steam of the shower, which transforms it into a spa-like experience. The steam from the hot water creates a natural diffuser, spreading the aromas of the essential oils in the shower air. While showering, you’re surrounded by the shower steam and an amazing fragrance. 

A shower mist is about more than a pleasant aroma, though. The essential oils in the shower mist have therapeutic properties, which you benefit from during your steamy shower. A few spritzes in your shower may help relax the body, calm the mind, wake you up, lift your spirits, regulate emotions, and rejuvenate your senses. 

Shower Mist Vs. Shower Steamer

You may have heard of a shower steamer. In fact, you can click here for our DIY recipe! They are scented discs that you place on the shower floor. As hot water flows onto them, they release their aroma into the shower air. A shower steamer is very similar to a shower mist, as both release the aromas from essential oils that you choose. Shower steamers are not for everyone, though, especially if you use oils or butters to make them. They can cause the shower floor to become a bit slippery, which is dangerous if your balance is not 100%. 

A shower mist is also a lot easier to make. All you have to do is pour the ingredients in a bottle, screw on the cap, shake the bottle up, and you are good to go. A shower mist also does not depend on humidity, so you can use the same recipe whether the humidity level is 0% or 100%. Shower steamers are a lot harder to make if you live in a humid environment. Finally, there is no setting time for a shower mist. Use it as soon as you make it, unlike shower steamers, which occasionally take days to set. 

DIY Shower Mist

Ingredients:

• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 15 drops orange essential oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 1/4 cup high-proof grade alcohol (such as Everclear)
• Distilled water

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to an eight-ounce spray bottle and then pour in the high-proof grade alcohol. 
• Should you choose to use other essential oils, that is also fine. The general recommendation for this recipe is 30-40 drops of essential oils. You can keep the high-proof grade alcohol and distilled water measurements the same in that eight-ounce bottle.
• Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water (leaving a small amount of space at the top to prevent overflowing), screw on the cap, and shake well to combine. 
• Put your spray to use! Spritz the shower mist in your hot shower and reap the benefits.

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Have you been thinking about adding more natural items to your skin care routine? If you have, then this Epsom salt body scrub is a great place to start. After purchasing all of the ingredients, each jar you make ends up costing around two dollars. How incredible is that?! Not only can this be an excellent item to add to your skin care routine, but it also makes for a great gift for the upcoming holiday season. Decorate the jars to make the product a little more festive. 

Normally, people put Epsom salt in their baths to help soothe sore muscles and inflammatory skin conditions. Believe it or not, Epsom salt makes for a highly efficient body scrub. After you take a shower, gently massage wet skin with a handful of the scrub in this recipe. The coarseness of the salt crystals works to slough away dead skin cells. Epsom salt’s anti-inflammatory properties help prevent irritation during the exfoliating process. Rinse away the body scrub and then follow with a moisturizing body cream. 

Epsom Salt Benefits

Epsom salts are a type of mineral salt found in nature. This type of salt is rich in magnesium and sulfate, and the salt is very coarse, but it is not meant for cooking. Skin care experts note that you can use Epsom salt to remove dead skin from the face, body, and scalp. Some people also use it on the skin to relieve itchiness from poison ivy or mosquito bites. It also helps to soften skin affected by psoriasis, which causes scaly patches on the skin. 

Coconut Oil Benefits

Coconut oil may help prevent and treat skin rashes, such as atopic dermatitis. One study found that coconut oil extract was able to improve skin barrier function. Scientists believe that coconut oil works to strengthen the skin barrier for infants with a low birth weight, potentially protecting them from health complications. Coconut oil may also help to reduce inflammation that results from UVB rays. Cellular studies indicate that coconut oil exhibits anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral activity. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

The antimicrobial and antiseptic properties in peppermint essential oil may help reduce the appearance of pimples and other blemishes. Because it contains menthol, it offers a cooling sensation when topically applied to the skin or scalp. Researchers note that applying peppermint essential oil topically (only when properly diluted to avoid skin irritation) stimulates blood flow to the skin, which may enhance skin tone. Finally, peppermint essential oil helps regulate sebum production, making it great for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

According to lab studies, eucalyptus essential oil may increase the production of ceramide, which helps moisturize skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent UVB-induced collagen degradation. Researchers have observed that cineole, the active compound in eucalyptus essential oil, has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Additionally, topical application can help ease inflammation and aid wound healing, thanks to the antimicrobial properties. 

DIY Epsom Salt Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt
• 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, mix together coconut oil, Epsom salt, and the essential oils. Make sure the ingredients are thoroughly combined. 
• Spoon the scrub into a glass jar and screw on the lid. Decorate with some ribbon or label. Increase the size of the batch in order to give this scrub as a gift during the holidays.

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Everyone knows when they are about to come down with a sore throat or cold. Be it the tickle in back of your throat or slight irritation in your nose, you just know. Once you start coughing or have difficulty breathing, perhaps you grab the decongestant and lather it all over your throat and chest. Some people put it under their feet and some want to really inhale the menthol, so they rub some under their nostrils. 

If you are congested and want to breathe easier, you may look to essential oils instead of a classic vapor rub. Some essential oils, including eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils, show particular promise, while others are not as effective at relieving sinus congestion. Other research indicates that essential oils may improve symptoms related to congestion. For example, some may help reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and relieve pain. 

A Quick Note About Essential Oil Dilution

The key to using essential oils safely is proper dilution. For adults, a 5% dilution is generally safe. That means that 30 drops of essential oils per one ounce of carrier oil, or 15 drops essential oils per 10 milliliters (ml) of carrier oil. For pregnant or breastfeeding women, a 1% dilution is best. Six drops of essential oils per ounce of carrier oil, or three drops essential oils per 10 ml of carrier oil. You can use the same pregnant or breastfeeding dilution ratio for children. 

For this recipe, you will use a half-cup of olive oil, 1/8 cup of beeswax pastilles, and 150 drops of essential oils. You can choose the amount of drops you wish to use from the following list of essential oils that help promote decongestion. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

A lot of people find that peppermint oil has a cooling effect and may improve symptoms of sinusitis. Because it contains menthol, peppermint essential oil may open the airways by affecting mucus receptors in the nose. According to lab studies, peppermint oil may fight bacteria, a primary trigger of sinus congestion. You can try to add peppermint essential oil to a warm bath to help reduce stuffiness.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains alpha-sabine, a compound that exhibits anti-viral, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. Researchers believe that tea tree oil helps relieve sinus congestion by fighting bacteria and viruses in the airways. It’s also possible that tea tree oil reduces inflammation, which may bring down swelling in the sinuses. By reducing swelling you can relieve symptoms of congestion, such as runny or stuffy nose. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is a common ingredient in chest rubs and other over-the-counter decongestants. It shows promise as an alternative remedy for sinusitis and congestion. Similar to peppermint essential oil, you can add eucalyptus essential oil to a warm bath to promote decongestion. Eucalyptus oil contains ceneole, which was proven to be safe and effective for sinus issues in several small studies. It helped to improve symptoms of sinusitis, including nasal obstruction, headaches, and runny nose. 

Essential Oil Chest Rub Decongestant

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/8 beeswax pastilles
• 150 drops essential oils of choice

Instructions:

• In the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat, melt the olive oil and beeswax together. Stir frequently to melt evenly. 
• When the two ingredients are fully melted, remove from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. You can put it back over the heat and add more oil if the mixture is too hard, or add more beeswax if it is too soft. 
• Add the 150 drops of essential oils (your selection) and mix well to combine. Immediately pour the mixture into a four-ounce mason jar. Cover and let cool at room temperature. 
• Apply to the chest and/or the neck area during a cold to help reduce coughing and promote better breathing. 

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The post DIY Essential Oil Chest Rub Decongestant appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

It’s time to refresh your senses with a deliciously customizable DIY body wash. Not only does it help you get squeaky clean, but it is also free of toxins! Certain bottled soaps or skin and hair care products can contain various parabens, dyes, and other chemicals that can harm the skin and penetrate into the body. If you are conscious about what you put on your skin, then you click on the right article!

Most popular body wash brands contain artificial colors and fragrances, which can cause allergies, endocrine disruption, and immunotoxicity. The term “fragrance” can hide between 10 to 50 chemicals, most of which do not have to be disclosed. The reason for that is because they are considered trade secrets under the U.S. Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. In a 2009 study, an expert on pollutant exposures and related health effects noted that 30.5% of the U.S. population reported skin irritation or headaches when exposed to scented products. Although more brands have started to list all of the ingredients in their products, many chemicals remain hidden to the masses. 

The Body Wash Ingredients

Before you get all of your ingredients together, make sure that you grab a bottle for your soap. You can reuse an old bottle of body wash if you want, but it is better to use amber glass, as this recipe contains essential oils. Dark glass helps essential oils retain their health benefits, due to reduced UV exposure. Like other body wash recipes that we have published, this one contains liquid castile soap. Because we recently described the benefits of castile soap (click here for recent post), we will not detail the benefits. Instead, you can read about the benefits of other ingredients below. 

Almond Oil

Almond oil is an excellent carrier oil that is beneficial for all skin and hair types. Research has shown that hand cream containing almond oil can help relieve hand dermatitis. Another study found that almond oil was able to relieve symptoms, such as itchy skin, redness, burning, and stinging. Some people like to use almond oil as a daily moisturizer because it helps to improve complexion and skin tone. Thanks to the antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, almond oil may benefit people with acne-prone skin. It works to reduce redness and inflammation, while also helping to cleanse pores. 

Orange Essential Oil

Citrus essential oils, such as orange essential oil, are praised in the beauty world because they can be an alternative to vitamin C serums. When used in aromatherapy, orange essential oil helps to reduce stress or improve mood. In topical uses, orange essential oil may help to relieve pain or inflammation and improve acne. Orange essential oil may also increase blood flow, which is why it is used by massage therapists. It may also help to promote clarity, radiance, and smoothness, which helps to reduce signs of uncomfortable skin conditions. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Well regarded for its healing properties, peppermint essential oil is a great natural alternative to some traditional remedies. If you dilute it properly, you can apply it to the skin. It is highly concentrated, so applying it without dilution can cause irritation or allergic reaction. That’s the case for most essential oils, by the way. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which is the active compound that can make the skin feel energized and refreshed. It helps to promote circulation and stimulate the skin, giving it a youthful glow. It may also work to open up clogged pores and better manage your acne. 

DIY Citrus Mint Body Wash

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons almond oil
• 1.5 cups liquid castile soap
• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil
• 35 drops orange essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour all of the ingredients into a glass bottle, screw on the pump top, and shake well to combine. 
• Make sure to shake well before each use. Please enjoy.

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The post Homemade Citrus Mint Body Wash appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.